News / National
Citizens Against Economic Sanctions (CAES) splits amid leadership wrangle
4 hrs ago |
144 Views
The Citizens Against Economic Sanctions (CAES) has split into two rival factions, one led by Martin Zharare and the other by acting director Ellison Muchenje, popularly known as Cde Samuriwo, AfroDemensions has learnt.
Zharare was allegedly expelled last month by the organisation’s board, but he reportedly refused to accept the decision. Instead, he is said to have dismissed the entire executive board and seven provincial coordinators after they declined to endorse what insiders described as “dubiously drilled boreholes”, choosing instead to align themselves with Samuriwo.
As the fallout deepens, Zharare is reportedly facing fraud and theft allegations from several provinces — including Mashonaland Central, Matabeleland South, Mashonaland West and Bulawayo — where villagers are said to be seeking justice.
Zharare insists he remains the legitimate leader of CAES and claims he is currently restructuring the organisation. Samuriwo, however, maintains that his faction represents the original CAES leadership.
In a WhatsApp group named CAES International Group, members declared that they no longer recognise Zharare and expressed frustration over what they allege is a lack of police action on their reports.
“We do not want thieves. We expelled Zharare on theft charges and we are still wondering why he is a free man yet communities are crying,” said one member, Mahoto.
Another participant, identified as Platinum 2030, wrote: “You should not go to Zharare’s meetings if he calls you. Just avoid him — he is no longer our leader.”
However, Zharare told state media that he is being targeted because of his support for the Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3).
“The differences we are witnessing are not administrative, but ideological,” he said. “I stand firmly in support of Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 because it speaks to the broader vision of stability, continuity and economic progress.
“Those opposing it within the organisation are entitled to their views, but they cannot weaponise internal processes to effect an illegal takeover.”
The dispute has left CAES deeply divided, with both factions claiming legitimacy as tensions continue to escalate.
Zharare was allegedly expelled last month by the organisation’s board, but he reportedly refused to accept the decision. Instead, he is said to have dismissed the entire executive board and seven provincial coordinators after they declined to endorse what insiders described as “dubiously drilled boreholes”, choosing instead to align themselves with Samuriwo.
As the fallout deepens, Zharare is reportedly facing fraud and theft allegations from several provinces — including Mashonaland Central, Matabeleland South, Mashonaland West and Bulawayo — where villagers are said to be seeking justice.
Zharare insists he remains the legitimate leader of CAES and claims he is currently restructuring the organisation. Samuriwo, however, maintains that his faction represents the original CAES leadership.
In a WhatsApp group named CAES International Group, members declared that they no longer recognise Zharare and expressed frustration over what they allege is a lack of police action on their reports.
“We do not want thieves. We expelled Zharare on theft charges and we are still wondering why he is a free man yet communities are crying,” said one member, Mahoto.
Another participant, identified as Platinum 2030, wrote: “You should not go to Zharare’s meetings if he calls you. Just avoid him — he is no longer our leader.”
However, Zharare told state media that he is being targeted because of his support for the Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3).
“The differences we are witnessing are not administrative, but ideological,” he said. “I stand firmly in support of Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 because it speaks to the broader vision of stability, continuity and economic progress.
“Those opposing it within the organisation are entitled to their views, but they cannot weaponise internal processes to effect an illegal takeover.”
The dispute has left CAES deeply divided, with both factions claiming legitimacy as tensions continue to escalate.
Source - Byo24News
Join the discussion
Loading comments…
