By Political Reporter- The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) is engulfed in unprecedented turmoil, characterized by internal strife and factionalism, which underscores the apparent disintegration of the party. This chaos is primarily fueled by the self-appointment of Sengezo Tshabangu to a top parliamentary position, a move that has sparked outrage and confusion within the party ranks. Tshabangu’s unilateral decision to appoint himself as the overall leader of the opposition in Parliament, overseeing both the Senate and the National Assembly, has been met with fierce resistance.

A faction led by Professor Welshman Ncube vehemently disputes these appointments, arguing that they were made without the party’s endorsement or proper consultation. The faction asserts that these actions were taken without the involvement of CCC’s official leadership or its deliberative organs, thus lacking legitimacy. On May 30th, Tshabangu’s controversial appointments were announced in Parliament, with Lynette Karenyi-Kore named as the leader of CCC legislators in the National Assembly.

However, this has only deepened the divide within the party. Jacob Mafume, spokesperson for the Ncube-led faction, has indicated that the party is engaging with the Speaker of Parliament, Jacob Mudenda, to have these appointments rescinded.

He emphasized that these positions were filled without following due process, highlighting the ongoing efforts to rectify what they consider an anomaly. Tshabangu’s appointments include key roles such as Chief Whips, members of various parliamentary committees, and international delegations, further consolidating his influence.

This power grab has not only exacerbated internal tensions but also cast a shadow over the CCC’s unity and future prospects. The appointments made by Tshabangu are as follows: – Hon. Lynette Karenyi-Kore, Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly; – Hon. Sen. Sengezo Tshabangu, Leader of Opposition in the Senate and overall leader of the Opposition in Parliament; – Hon. Sen. Sipho Mlotshwa, Chief Whip in Senate; – Hon. Sen. Sesel Zvidzai, Deputy Chief Whip in the Senate; – Hon. Edwin Mushoriwa, Chief Whip in the National Assembly; – Hon. Brian Nyandoro, Deputy Chief Whip in the National Assembly; – Hon. Sichelesile Mahlangu and Hon. Sen. Kucaca Phulu to be Members on Standing Rules and Orders Committee; – Hon. Olivia Sinda, Deputy Chairperson of the Zimbabwe Women’s Parliamentary Caucus; – Hon. Cathrine Chinanzvavana, Organiser for the Zimbabwe Women’s Parliamentary Caucus; – Hon. Juliet Makuvire, Member of the Executive Committee in the Zimbabwe Women’s Parliamentary Caucus Executive; – Hon. Stellah Matsunga, Member of the Africa Parliamentary Union Delegation; – Hon. Sen. Sengezo Tshabangu and Hon. Maureen Kademaunga, Members of the Inter-Parliamentary Union Delegation; – Hon. Nomathemba Mlotshwa, Member of the OACPS EU Delegation; – Hon. Happymore Chidziva, Member of the Pan African Parliamentary Delegation; – Hon. Lynette Karenyi-Kore, Member of the SADC PF Delegation; and – Hon. Mthokozisi Ngwena, Member of the ASSECAA Delegation.

The CCC, once seen as a formidable opposition force, now appears to be unraveling under the weight of internal disputes and power struggles. The infiltration and influence of the ruling ZANU PF within the party are suspected by some, adding a layer of complexity and distrust to the already volatile situation. The fragmentation of CCC leadership, with multiple factions claiming legitimacy, raises questions about the party’s ability to present a cohesive front against the ruling party. This ongoing saga reflects a broader trend of political instability within opposition parties in Zimbabwe, where internal conflicts and external pressures often undermine their effectiveness.

The CCC’s current predicament underscores the challenges of maintaining unity and integrity in a highly polarized and competitive political landscape. The outcome of this internal power struggle will likely have significant implications for the party’s future and its role in Zimbabwe’s political arena.