Political Reporter

The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party has been engulfed in chaos, with widening fissures emerging during the recent Mutare mayoral election.

According to a well-placed source within that party, the election of the new Mayor of Mutare, Simon Chabuka, was marred by controversy and discord.

Chabuka reportedly refused to attend a caucus meeting at that party's offices in Mutare on November 28, 2023.

He reportedly dismissed the meeting, which he perceived as convened by “political nobodies,” intensifying the internal party conflict.

“The caucus was intended to persuade Chabuka not to contest the mayoral election, as party leader Nelson Chamisa had a preferred candidate. But Chabuka’s defiance was clear; he wasn’t going to be swayed,” the source explained.

The source said that on the day of the mayoral election, tensions escalated. And fearing a plot to humiliate and physically attack him, Chabuka gathered a group of approximately 20 touts near the election venue for protection.

“The atmosphere was tense. Chabuka knew he was walking into a hostile environment and took measures to ensure his safety,” added the source.

This display of force reportedly deterred Chitungwiza Deputy Mayor Jerita Mutingwende and her delegation, who decided against proceeding to the party office, fearing potential violence.

Despite the turmoil, the elections went ahead, and Chabuka emerged victorious, reportedly with the backing of the party’s interim co-vice president, Karenyi Kore.

“It was clear that Kore directed the councillors to support Chabuka. This election was more than just about the mayoral seat; it was a power struggle between Kore and Prosper Mutseyami, each vying for control over the council,” the source revealed.

Meanwhile, the recent events in Mutare have cast a shadow over the CCC, revealing deep internal divisions and the potential for violence.

This internal strife threatens to undermine that party’s cohesion and effectiveness, just two years after its formation.