Political Reporter

Members of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) have openly criticised their Kuwadzana East Member of Parliament, Chalton Hwende, following his call for that party's president, Nelson Chamisa, to engage with key figures in an attempt to resolve internal conflicts.

Hwende recently took to social media platform X to express his concerns about the party's cohesion.

"He (Chamisa) needs a conversation with Hon. (Tendai) Biti, Hon. Job Sikhala, and Hon. (Welshman) Ncube. They must work together and jointly broaden their alliance to include key opposition and civic society leaders," Hwende posted.

This statement has sparked fury among those closely aligned with Chamisa.

A source within the CCC said that "members whose loyalty lies with Chamisa are accusing Hwende of betrayal. They see him as part of a cabal working with Tshabangu to undermine our leader. It's clear for us; Hwende is crossing the line."

The source added that the internal divide within the CCC seems to be widening as Chamisa loyalists lash out, claiming that Hwende's actions are tantamount to a tacit endorsement of a faction led by the interim secretary-general, Sengezo Tshabangu.

The same source added that allegations were rife that Tshabangu has been collaborating with Biti and Ncube to orchestrate the recall of CCC parliamentarians and councillors, further exacerbating that party's challenges.

"Our commitment to the party's unity and the leadership of Chamisa is unwavering. It's disheartening to see a respected member like Hwende proposing dialogue with individuals accused of such serious betrayal," added the source.

The source further said that tension has escalated to the point where some party members are suggesting that decisive action be taken against Hwende.

"Chamisa should reprimand Hwende and give him a clear choice: either to support the president's (Chamisa’s) vision or align openly with the Tshabangu faction. There is no room for double agents in our ranks," the source insisted.

Amidst these internal squabbles, senior CCC member, David Coltart has also recently expressed his disappointment over the discord among party leaders.

Despite the turmoil, Coltart maintains a firm belief in the dedication of Biti, Ncube, and Sikhala to the CCC and the opposition movement in Zimbabwe.

"Biti, Ncube, and Sikhala have consistently demonstrated their commitment to our cause, even in the face of adversity. It's crucial that we find a path to reconciliation and focus on our common goals," Coltart recently remarked.

Meanwhile, the CCC finds itself at a crossroads, with the potential to either bridge divisions or face further fragmentation.