Several legislators from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) and former allies of Nelson Chamisa attended a meeting led by Welshman Ncube, signaling a shift in party dynamics. This meeting, held in Harare, has ended ongoing speculation about the leadership and direction of the party following internal disagreements.
During the National Council meeting, notable figures such as Charlton Hwende, the secretary-general, and Lynnete Karenyi-Kore, vice-president, took prominent roles, highlighting their new allegiance. Sessel Zvidzai, previously an adviser to Chamisa, was introduced as the party chairperson, underscoring the reshuffling within the CCC’s leadership.
The presence of Hwende, Karenyi-Kore, and other influential members like Richard Tsvangirayi, Maureen Kademaunga, and Happymore Chidziva, who had earlier distanced themselves from Ncube, marked a pivotal moment. These leaders, having previously expressed reservations about Ncube’s direction, now appeared fully in control of the meeting’s proceedings, indicating a consolidated support for Ncube’s leadership.
During a press conference following the council meeting, Ncube addressed the media, acknowledging past failures within the party and expressing a forward-looking stance. He criticized Chamisa for his leadership shortcomings but also admitted that the previous national council elected in Gweru had not adequately performed its duties regarding accountability and transparency according to democratic principles.
In a resolution made during the meeting, the CCC outlined its strategy to engage with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s ruling party, Zanu PF, focusing on electoral reforms. These reforms will be based on findings from observer missions both from within Zimbabwe and abroad. Ncube emphasized that their approach would not challenge the results of the 2023 general elections but would instead address the processes to ensure a fair competitive environment for the 2028 elections.
“We are not contesting the past election results but striving to improve the electoral processes for future elections to avoid repeating the shortcomings we faced in 2023,” Ncube stated. Furthermore, the Ncube-led faction has decided to engage with Sengezo Tshabangu, the self-imposed interim secretary-general. Ncube affirmed Tshabangu’s importance within the CCC, recognizing him as a legitimate leader who plays a critical role in both the national executive and the national council. He stressed the necessity of resolving internal conflicts to strengthen the party.
