…as Tshabangu claims exclusive power to recall members

Political Reporter

The internal strife within the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has escalated as the Interim Secretary General, Sengezo Tshabangu has asserted his authority by claiming the sole power to recall elected members.

Tshabangu once again appears to score political points against CCC leader, Nelson Chamisa, reinforcing the perception of a power struggle within the opposition party.

In a letter addressed to the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Winston Chitando, Tshabangu emphasized his exclusive authority over recalls within the party.

The Harare Post obtained a copy of the letter where Tshabangu stated, "We hereby advise that Sengezo Tshabangu, the interim Secretary General of the CCC party, is the only officer authorized to effect recalls and to communicate with public bodies for that purpose in terms of our party constitution previously lodged with your office."

Tshabangu further highlighted the constraints on recalls due to a High Court provisional order (case number HH652/23), indicating that the only official with the power to effect recalls is currently interdicted pending the resolution of the legal matters challenging his authority.

"For that reason, we reiterate that there is no other party official with the authority to effect recalls. We ask that you have regard to the legal matters pending before the courts and our Constitution before acting on any purported letters of recall and rightly disregard such mischievous efforts," Tshabangu urged Minister Chitando.

The unfolding drama comes on the heels of reports that CCC leader Nelson Chamisa has dismissed Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume and other councillors, alleging their allegiance to Tshabangu.

Political analyst Calvin Chitsunge weighed in on the matter, suggesting that the CCC needs to undergo an elective congress to navigate through the chaos gripping that party.

"It's clear that Chamisa is no longer in charge of the CCC, as evident in his attempt to form another political party. If he fails to address the challenges facing CCC, he will end up forming hundreds of opposition parties until he runs out of names," Chitsunge cautioned.

The power struggle within the CCC raises concerns about that party's unity and effectiveness in challenging the ruling ZANU PF.

As Tshabangu consolidates his position and Chamisa grapples with internal dissent, the opposition movement in Zimbabwe finds itself at a critical juncture, with the need for resolution and stability becoming increasingly urgent.