Prospects of CCC attaining power in Zimbabwe are exceedingly grim

The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), formerly known as the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), has been a constant source of disputes, leaving political observers puzzled by the root causes and the relentless persistence of infighting within the party. Against the backdrop of this ongoing strife, it becomes crucial to revisit the historical hostilities among Zimbabwe's opposition figures, which have included confrontations between prominent figures such as Morgan Tsvangirai, Welshmen Ncube, Tendai Biti, David Coltart, Elton Mangoma, and others. Astonishingly, Nelson Chamisa finds himself yet again embroiled in conflicts with nearly every prominent figure within the opposition ranks, including Thokozani Khupe, Douglas Mwonzora, David Coltart, Morgan Komichi, Jacob Mafume, Phugeni, Charlton Hwende, Sengezo Tshabangu, Thabita Kumalo, Tendai Biti, Welshman Ncube, and Tapiwa Mashakada.

The central question that looms large is whether these conflicts stem from institutional inadequacies or the idiosyncratic traits of individuals comprising the opposition movement. A closer examination points to the undeniable influence exerted by the founding members of MDC/CCC, shaping the essence and ethos of the CCC as it stands today.

The roots of the MDC, now CCC, can be traced back to the aspirations of former white commercial farmers who sought a political force capable of challenging ZanuPF, with the fervent hope that such an opposition party could facilitate the reclamation of their confiscated farmlands. Following its inception, the leadership swiftly forged alliances with Western nations, effectively designating them as their de facto sponsors and handlers from the very outset.

Endorsing the colonial oppressors, who had inflicted untold horrors upon their own people, forcibly seized their lands, and exploited their resources, demanded an unparalleled degree of self-serving indifference and apathy toward the suffering of the majority. This entrenched selfishness and cruelty have defined the operational culture within the opposition and left an indelible stain on the movement.

Unbelievably, even in the present day, CCC leaders continue to fervently advocate for sanctions. Nelson Chamisa, recently staunchly defended the necessity of sanctions against Zimbabwe. This stance remains unchanged despite Zimbabwe enduring economic losses that have exceeded a staggering 150 billion United States Dollars, resulting in profound hardship for the average Zimbabwean. Public service delivery has regressed, salaries have dwindled, and families have been torn asunder by emigration. Regrettably, the opposition leadership appears unperturbed by this widespread suffering, as long as it fuels the hope that the populace will revolt against ZanuPF. Were it not for the radical policy shift introduced by President E.D Mnangagwa in the Second Republic, which champions locally derived solutions (Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo), the consequences of these sanctions could have inflicted even more cataclysmic repercussions upon the nation.

The strains of unreasonable self-interest pervade the leadership echelons of the CCC, characterized by an unwritten doctrine of absolute power, a winner-takes-all mindset, and an adamant refusal to consider dissenting perspectives. Consequently, those outside the leader's inner circle are rendered voiceless, regardless of their standing within the organisational hierarchy. This autocratic disposition has precipitated a series of high-handed decisions, often to the detriment of other capable leaders, fomenting profound internal schisms.

One would reasonably anticipate that the current leader would place a premium on unity and devise strategies to foster cohesion and continuity, particularly in the wake of several costly splits within the opposition. However, Chamisa overlooks this imperative, instead disproportionately relying on his perceived divine connection to God. His faith-based approach hinges on prayer groups and friendly prophecies that unscientifically anoint him as the nation's leader. The mystique lies in how such a belief system can be earnestly considered a bona fide strategy. It also raises legitimate questions regarding Chamisa's unwavering conviction that he is unequivocally aligned with God's plan for Zimbabwe, effectively marginalising reasoned input from his peers.

Regrettably, the prospects of CCC attaining power in Zimbabwe are exceedingly grim unless it embarks on a profound transformation, jettisoning its deeply ingrained culture of self-serving interests and cruelty, and reimagining itself as a people-centric, locally rooted political entity. The road ahead remains murky, yet the imperative for change is unquestionable if the CCC aspires to emerge as a credible opposition political movement for the people of Zimbabwe.