Political Reporter
Anticipated plans for the launch of a new political party by opposition leader Nelson Chamisa have reportedly been delayed due to infighting and jostling for positions within his camp.
Chamisa is said to be grappling with a dilemma over how to accommodate his key lieutenants in the interim National Executive Council of the new party.
A source privy to the developments told this publication that Chamisa had initially planned to unveil the party this December.
However, the timeline is now uncertain, as internal squabbles over leadership positions threaten to derail progress.
“Chamisa wanted to launch his new political outfit before the end of this year, but he is facing significant challenges in appointing the interim leadership. The problem is that everyone wants a top position, and Chamisa is worried that if he makes the wrong decision, it could lead to a split before the party even gets off the ground,” the source revealed.
The contest for the vice presidency is reportedly the most contentious issue.
Prominent figures in Chamisa’s camp, including Gift “Ostallos” Siziba, Fadzayi Mahere, and Prince Dubeko Sibanda, are all said to be eyeing the influential position.
Chamisa, however, is believed to prefer a streamlined leadership structure with only one vice president, a departure from the multiple deputies that characterized his previous party, the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).
“Chamisa has learned from the past. He has even drafted a new constitution for the anticipated party, clearly outlining its structures. He wants to avoid the confusion and divisions that plagued the CCC,” the source said.
Despite these efforts, critics within Chamisa’s inner circle have expressed scepticism about his leadership approach.
One senior insider described Chamisa’s management style as a holdover from his days as a student union leader and warned that this could jeopardize the new party’s future.
“If he continues behaving like he is running a student union, even this anticipated party will crumble before its time. He needs to demonstrate real political maturity and leadership if he wants this party to succeed,” the insider told this publication.
The insider added that Chamisa’s indecision and the infighting among his allies could undermine his ambitions to re-establish himself as a formidable force ahead of the 2028 elections.
“Chamisa is walking a tightrope. He has to balance the competing interests of his lieutenants without compromising the integrity of the new party. It’s a delicate situation, and the decisions he makes now will determine the party’s trajectory,” the source added.
Chamisa’s office could not be reached for comment at the time of publication.
However, the delays and internal divisions have already raised questions about whether the new party can achieve the unity and focus necessary to challenge the ruling establishment.
