News / National
Tshabangu defies critics with fresh appointments
05 Jan 2025 at 14:38hrs | Views
Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) self-appointed secretary general Sengezo Tshabangu has announced new senior appointments within the fractured opposition party, asserting his authority amid ongoing legal and political disputes.
Tshabangu's latest appointments come as the party grapples with internal divisions and legal challenges over his role. On Monday, a High Court judge reserved judgment in a case brought by CCC interim leader Welshman Ncube, who is seeking to nullify Tshabangu's recent reshuffle of party leaders in Parliament. Ncube argues that Tshabangu lacks the authority to make such decisions.
Despite the legal uncertainty, Tshabangu has moved ahead with new appointments. Harare mayor Jacob Mafume has been named chairperson of the party's local government caucus. Mafume will be deputized by Bulawayo councillor Edwin Ndlovu, while Bulawayo councillor Nyando Ndlovu has been appointed the caucus spokesperson.
The appointments signal Tshabangu's continued assertion of control within the CCC, even as his position remains contested by other factions.
The CCC has been deeply divided since former leader Nelson Chamisa resigned in early 2024, citing infiltration by Zanu PF and internal discord. The party has since split into three main factions, led by Tshabangu, Ncube, and Jameson Timba.
Tshabangu's actions have drawn criticism from both within and outside the party, with opponents accusing him of undermining the CCC's democratic processes and consolidating power illegitimately.
The High Court's pending decision on Tshabangu's authority could have significant implications for the CCC's internal power dynamics. If the court rules against Tshabangu, it may bolster efforts by other factions to curtail his influence. Conversely, a ruling in his favor could entrench his leadership position and deepen the rift within the party.
As the CCC prepares for the 2025 elections, its ability to resolve internal disputes and present a united front remains uncertain. Tshabangu's latest appointments underscore the ongoing battle for control within the opposition party, a struggle that could shape its future role in Zimbabwe's political landscape.
Tshabangu's latest appointments come as the party grapples with internal divisions and legal challenges over his role. On Monday, a High Court judge reserved judgment in a case brought by CCC interim leader Welshman Ncube, who is seeking to nullify Tshabangu's recent reshuffle of party leaders in Parliament. Ncube argues that Tshabangu lacks the authority to make such decisions.
Despite the legal uncertainty, Tshabangu has moved ahead with new appointments. Harare mayor Jacob Mafume has been named chairperson of the party's local government caucus. Mafume will be deputized by Bulawayo councillor Edwin Ndlovu, while Bulawayo councillor Nyando Ndlovu has been appointed the caucus spokesperson.
The appointments signal Tshabangu's continued assertion of control within the CCC, even as his position remains contested by other factions.
The CCC has been deeply divided since former leader Nelson Chamisa resigned in early 2024, citing infiltration by Zanu PF and internal discord. The party has since split into three main factions, led by Tshabangu, Ncube, and Jameson Timba.
Tshabangu's actions have drawn criticism from both within and outside the party, with opponents accusing him of undermining the CCC's democratic processes and consolidating power illegitimately.
The High Court's pending decision on Tshabangu's authority could have significant implications for the CCC's internal power dynamics. If the court rules against Tshabangu, it may bolster efforts by other factions to curtail his influence. Conversely, a ruling in his favor could entrench his leadership position and deepen the rift within the party.
As the CCC prepares for the 2025 elections, its ability to resolve internal disputes and present a united front remains uncertain. Tshabangu's latest appointments underscore the ongoing battle for control within the opposition party, a struggle that could shape its future role in Zimbabwe's political landscape.
Source - newsday
