BREAKING: Senior Ibhetshu LikaZulu Official Resigns Over Tshabangu Links and Strategic Rift

BULAWAYO - Ibhetshu LikaZulu, a leading Matabeleland-based human rights and advocacy organisation, has been rocked by the abrupt resignation of senior member Gifford Mehluli Sibanda, who cited deep disagreements over the group's evolving approach to confronting ZANU-PF.

In a resignation letter addressed to Secretary General Mbuso Fuzwayo, Sibanda said his decision followed "deep reflection" and a growing sense that the organisation's current trajectory no longer aligns with his principles or the founding values of Ibhetshu LikaZulu.

"It is with a heavy heart that I tender my resignation from Ibhetshu LikaZulu, effective immediately," Sibanda wrote. "Unfortunately, I find that this route diverges from my own beliefs, principles, and the foundational values that Ibhetshu LikaZulu has long stood for."

Ibhetshu LikaZulu was founded to champion justice, accountability, and truth-telling around the Gukurahundi atrocities. It has consistently challenged the ZANU-PF government over historical and ongoing human rights violations in Matabeleland.

Sibanda praised the organisation as a "home of conscience and courage" that gave voice to the voiceless, but made clear that his departure does not mark the end of his activism. "My commitment to the struggle for restorative justice, human rights, and democracy remains steadfast," he said, pledging to continue his advocacy independently.

The resignation is expected to spark debate within Zimbabwe's civic rights community, especially amid growing tensions over alleged links between Fuzwayo and controversial political figure Sengezo Tshabangu. As of press time, Ibhetshu LikaZulu had not issued an official response.

The development comes at a time when civil society organisations are under increasing pressure to clarify their political alignments and maintain credibility in the face of shifting alliances and contested narratives.