HARARE – The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has expressed outrage over Parliament’s decision to implement a controversial reshuffle of the opposition’s parliamentary leadership, allegedly orchestrated by disputed Secretary General Sengezo Tshabangu.
The reshuffle, which has deepened tensions within the CCC, saw Lynnette Karenyi Kore replaced as Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly by Maureen Kademaunga. Nonhlahla Mlotshwa was appointed as the new Chief Whip, taking over from Prosper Mutseyami.
The CCC, led by co-vice president Welshman Ncube, has filed a legal challenge at the High Court in Bulawayo, asserting that Tshabangu lacks the authority to unilaterally effect such changes without broader party consent.
Party Outrage Over Parliament’s Actions
Despite the ongoing court case, Parliament moved ahead with the appointments, prompting strong condemnation from the CCC.
“The matter is before the court, and it is shocking that after the Speaker had been served with court papers, he proceeded to make the arrangements,” CCC spokesperson Willias Madzimure said, as quoted by NewZimbabwe.com.
Madzimure criticised Parliament’s actions as undermining the rule of law and accused Tshabangu of creating instability within the opposition party.
“As a party, we believe in a normal democracy where the rule of law is respected. When we have such a situation, we approach the courts for resolution,” he added.
A Controversial Takeover
Tshabangu, whose role as CCC Secretary-General is disputed, assumed control in October 2023 and has since recalled dozens of elected representatives. His actions have reportedly been supported by both Parliament and the Judiciary, further escalating internal divisions.
The CCC argues that Tshabangu’s moves are a violation of democratic principles, with critics suggesting his actions are politically motivated to weaken the opposition ahead of future elections.
Legal Challenge and Implications
The High Court is set to hear the CCC’s case on Friday, with party officials hopeful for a favourable ruling that could reverse the reshuffle. The outcome is likely to set a significant precedent for party autonomy and the role of the judiciary in internal political disputes.
Analysts warn that the ongoing power struggle could erode the CCC’s credibility as a unified opposition force, potentially impacting its ability to challenge the ruling ZANU-PF party effectively.
A Growing Crisis
The leadership dispute comes at a critical time for the CCC, as Zimbabwe’s political landscape continues to face scrutiny over issues of governance, electoral integrity, and economic reform.
Observers argue that resolving internal party conflicts is crucial for the CCC to present a cohesive alternative to the electorate.
“This leadership crisis risks undermining the CCC’s role as a credible opposition. If unresolved, it may leave the party fragmented and vulnerable in the lead-up to future elections,” political analyst Dr. Maxwell Saungweme noted.
The CCC’s ongoing legal battle highlights the broader challenges of navigating Zimbabwe’s fraught political environment, where judicial and legislative interventions often intersect with party dynamics.
