Political Reporter
Reports have emerged that several high-profile members of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) are contemplating crossing the floor to join the ruling ZANU PF party, citing diminishing prospects within their current political movement.
A source privy to the developments disclosed that prominent figures, including Charlton Hwende, Fungai Chiposi, and former Harare Deputy Mayor Kudzai Kadzombe, are among those considering the switch.
According to the insider, the defections are driven by growing disillusionment within the CCC ranks as the opposition party grapples with internal divisions and a perceived lack of direction.
“The likes of Hwende, Chiposi, and Kadzombe are no longer seeing any political light in the CCC. They feel that ZANU PF, with its stability offers a more viable path forward,” the source revealed.
The source further detailed Hwende's fallout with both Nelson Chamisa and the Sengezo Tshabangu factions within the CCC, which has reportedly fuelled his desire to join ZANU PF.
"Hwende has been sidelined and placed in an untenable position within the CCC." He is not in favour with either Chamisa or Tshabangu, and this alienation has made ZANU PF an attractive alternative for him,” said the source.
Meanwhile, Chiposi and Kadzombe are believed to have approached ZANU PF's Harare leadership through emissaries, expressing their interest in joining the ruling Party.
However, they are reportedly lobbying for guaranteed positions to avoid starting from the bottom of the Party hierarchy.
“Chiposi and Kadzombe have made overtures to ZANU PF, but they are seeking assurances of influential positions before making the leap. They are hesitant to join without a clear path to roles that match their current political stature,” the source added.
Political commentator Calvin Chitsunge weighed in on the matter, suggesting that by 2028, ZANU PF could see an influx of opposition figures as the ruling party's policies continue to gain traction among Zimbabweans.
“ZANU PF is proving to be the darling of many people because of its developmental and people-oriented policies. If this trend continues, we could witness a significant number of opposition bigwigs defecting to the ruling party by the next elections,” Chitsunge said.
Another political analyst, Themba Ndlovu, echoed these sentiments, arguing that opposition members would be better off aligning with ZANU PF rather than clinging to a waning movement.
However, he cautioned against demanding positions as a condition for joining.
“It's good for opposition members to join ZANU PF, especially when the opposition appears to be on its deathbed. However, they should not expect to be handed posts upon joining. They must prove their worth within the Party structures first,” Ndlovu stated.
The reported defections come at a time when the CCC is battling to maintain its relevance amid internal strife and challenges in presenting a united front against ZANU PF.
