Key Points
-
CCC threatens to blacklist members who support Mnangagwa’s term extension.
-
Linda Masarira and other critics argue that the CCC’s stance undermines democratic values.
-
Allegations of bribery and political manipulation raise concerns over the integrity of Zimbabwe’s leadership.
The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), led by Jameson Timba, has issued a stern warning to its members. The party will blacklist anyone who supports changing the Constitution to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term beyond 2028.
CCC’s response to the constitutional amendment proposal
Promise Mkwananzi, the CCC spokesperson, stated that those who back the constitutional amendment will face public shaming and be banned from holding leadership positions within the party.
He stressed that this policy aims to preserve the integrity of the democratic movement and safeguard Zimbabwe’s Constitution.
“We will not allow anyone within the democratic movement to support the alteration of the Constitution for Mnangagwa’s extended term. If they do, they will be blacklisted for life,” Mkwananzi said.
This decision affects all members, including MPs, councillors, and activists, whether they are current members or planning to join the party.
Opposition to Mnangagwa’s term extension
Linda Masarira, president of the Labour, Economists, and African Democrats party, criticized the CCC for threatening to exclude members who oppose Mnangagwa’s term extension. Masarira believes that such actions contradict the principles of democracy.
“We cannot fight dictatorship with authoritarian tendencies,” Masarira said. “True democracy allows for open debate and respect for differing opinions, even if we disagree.”
Nqobizitha Mlilo, spokesperson for the Sengezo Tshabangu faction, also voiced his concern, stating that MPs should act in the best interest of the country.
Meanwhile, Lloyd Damba, spokesperson for the Douglas Mwonzora-led MDC, claimed that the CCC had already aligned itself with Mnangagwa’s 2030 agenda.
Allegations of corruption and influence
Damba further alleged that CCC members had been incentivized to support Mnangagwa’s agenda, mentioning gifts such as cars, allowances, and money. He believes this reflects a concerning shift in Zimbabwe’s political landscape.
“Nothing new has happened,” Damba said. “You have not seen anything yet. The CCC’s support for the 2030 agenda was expected from the start.”
Africa’s political environment and the future of democracy
As these political battles unfold, the question remains whether the country can maintain its democratic values or if political power will continue to concentrate in the hands of a few. With allegations of corruption and the push for Mnangagwa’s extended rule, Zimbabwe’s political future remains uncertain.
