By A Correspondent
Councilor Jacob Mafume has been removed from his position within the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC)-MDC alliance, a move reportedly directed by Acting President Welshman Ncube.
This change has sparked speculation about whether it is part of a strategic effort to consolidate power or the onset of a deeper internal conflict, particularly following Mafume’s controversial participation in a Zanu PF ideology school.
The recent CCC reshuffle has introduced Willias Madzimure and Kuraone Chihwayi into prominent communication roles. Welshman Ncube announced: “I am pleased to confirm the appointments of Honourable Willias Madzimure as Secretary for Information and Publicity (Party Spokesperson) and Kuraone Chihwayi as Presidential Spokesperson, effective immediately.” He added that these changes are intended to “boost our communication capabilities to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of our party’s messaging.”
The exclusion of Mafume from these new appointments has drawn attention, especially given his recent appearance at the Zanu PF ideology school, which has been widely criticized by opposition figures.
Political commentator Davis Laque remarked, “Jacob Mafume’s removal from his CCC-MDC role, allegedly under Prof. Welshman Ncube’s direction, raises questions. Is this a strategic realignment or a response to the fallout from Mafume’s controversial graduation?”
Laque pointed out that Kuraone Chihwayi, the new Presidential Spokesperson, is a close associate of Prof. Ncube and previously served as spokesperson for the MDC-Green faction.
Willias Madzimure, the newly appointed CCC Spokesperson, has been a notable figure in Zimbabwean politics since 2000, including a stint as Deputy Speaker of Parliament in 2008.
Reflecting on Mafume’s tenure, Laque commented, “Madzimure replaces the outspoken Mafume, whose term was marked by frequent attacks on Chamisa and attempts to appease Zanu PF. This replacement seems like a move to address past criticisms, albeit belatedly.”
Laque also questioned the credibility of the new appointees, suggesting they had minimal impact on CCC’s national election campaign and might struggle to gain respect from citizens and the international community.
“This group of politicians had limited or no significant role in CCC’s campaign and might not be seen as credible leaders by either the public or international observers,” Laque said.
As the CCC-MDC coalition navigates these changes, the implications for the party’s communication strategy and overall unity remain uncertain.
With Zimbabwe’s political scene in flux, the coalition’s next steps will be closely watched.