Staff Reporter
Victoria Falls residents have accused CCC leader, Nelson Chamisa of interfering in the selection of the resort city’s mayor to ensure his ally secure the post.
A source who spoke to the Harare Post said that Chamisa was backing one Tuso for the mayoral position, despite concerns over Tuso's previous corruption allegations.
According to the source, the Hwange District Residents Association (HDRA) chairperson, Herbert Ncube, expressed vehement disagreement with Chamisa's choice. He reportedly reached out to Chamisa, advising him to reconsider backing Tuso.
The source said that in response, Chamisa asserted that Ncube had no authority to direct his actions.
Ncube, however, staunchly believes that the people of Victoria Falls should choose their leadership without external influence, calling on Chamisa to respect democratic processes and local governance autonomy.
In addition to the brewing controversy in Victoria Falls, there are rumblings of discontent within the CCC itself.
The same source said that Gladys Mavuti, a CCC member, along with her associates, have expressed reservations about another apparent decision by Chamisa to support Ian Makone for Harare Mayor.
Mavuti is of the view that Makone's age and perceived unpopularity could destabilize Harare. She has suggested the retention of Jacob Mafume as a mayor, urging Chamisa to adopt a more consultative approach.
"Chamisa's involvement in mayoral selections raises serious concerns. The essence of democracy is being undermined, which poses a risk to local governance autonomy. It's imperative for leaders like Chamisa to understand the sanctity of people's choices," said the source.
Political analyst, Paidamoyo Mutsvairo echoed Mavuti's sentiments. She warned of the adverse consequences of such interference.
"By having mayors appointed by party leaders instead of a democratic election process, the voice of the people could be suppressed, leading to potential disillusionment with the democratic system,” said Mutsvairo.
Furthermore, another political analyst, Takudzwa Chimwaka, predicted that mayors appointed this way might prioritize party interests over those of the residents, paving way for corruption and inefficiency.
Chimwaka added that such a dynamic could have the unintended consequence of painting Chamisa as a leader more focused on consolidating power than genuinely serving the people, potentially stirring further political unrest in Zimbabwe.
