Political Reporter
Rumours are swirling that former opposition heavyweights Job Sikhala and Tendai Biti are in talks to form a new political movement that will contest in the forthcoming elections.
A source privy to the developments revealed that the two politicians believe that reviving the opposition under Nelson Chamisa is a futile exercise and are looking to establish a fresh political outfit that will challenge the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) and the MDC.
“The two have been meeting secretly to discuss their new movement. They are convinced that Chamisa’s approach to opposition politics is not yielding results, and they want to create a force that will eat into the CCC and MDC’s support base,” said the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity.
According to the source, Sikhala and Biti have been holding clandestine meetings at Sikhala’s residence in Chitungwiza, strategising on their next move.
“They feel that Zimbabweans, particularly opposition supporters, need an alternative. The idea is to introduce a more structured and robust movement that will stand up to ZANU-PF more effectively,” the source added.
Sikhala, a former CCC official and long-time opposition activist, was released from prison last year after spending an extended period behind bars on various charges.
His continued rift with Chamisa’s leadership has led to speculation about his next political move.
On the other hand, Biti, a former Finance Minister and key opposition figure, has also had a strained relationship with Chamisa, further fuelling speculation that he is looking for a new political home.
While Sikhala and Biti have not publicly confirmed the formation of a new movement, sources indicate that an official announcement is likely before August this year.
“They are finalising the groundwork, reaching out to potential allies, and preparing for a formal launch,” the source stated.
Political analysts believe that such a move could significantly shake up the opposition landscape.
“If Sikhala and Biti form a new party, it could fragment the opposition vote further. However, if they manage to attract key figures and mobilise grassroots support, they could create a powerful alternative to Chamisa’s CCC,” said Dr. Anold Moyo, a political analyst.
Efforts to get comments from Sikhala and Biti were unsuccessful at the time of publication.
However, political circles are already abuzz with speculation about what this new alliance could mean for the country’s opposition politics as the elections draw nearer.
