Harare, Zimbabwe — An urgent chamber application filed by a faction loyal to Nelson Chamisa seeks to halt the disbursement of ZiG 22 million in government funds to Sengezo Tshabangu, amid disputes over his claim to the interim Secretary General position of the CCC. The application, submitted to the High Court, targets the Ministers of Justice and Finance, aiming to preserve the funds following the publication of a government gazette on September 6, 2024, which outlines financial allocations to political parties under the Political Parties (Finance) Act.
Tshabangu, who has taken controversial steps including the recalling of elected Members of Parliament, finds himself increasingly isolated as multiple legal challenges mount against his actions. The CCC, citing its constitution adopted on February 22, 2022, argues that releasing funds to Tshabangu could cause irreversible damage, stressing the need for judicial intervention to ensure financial resources are handled by its legitimate leadership.
“The disbursement of funds to an unauthorized individual could lead to significant financial mismanagement and further destabilize our party during this crucial recovery period,” stated a CCC spokesperson. “It is imperative that the High Court recognizes the gravity of this situation and acts swiftly.”
The court filings underscore a significant rift within the CCC, exacerbated by Chamisa’s resignation earlier this year, which Tshabangu has allegedly exploited to assert control over the party’s finances. This move has prompted significant backlash within the party, with key figures and supporters questioning his authority and the legitimacy of his actions.
The first applicant in the chamber application is the CCC itself, asserting its right as an entity capable of suing and being sued. Youngerson Matete, the second applicant, a taxpayer and registered voter, has expressed a vested interest in ensuring that political funds are disbursed responsibly and legally.
Legal representatives for Tshabangu, however, argue that the funds are meant for the political party as an institution, not individuals, and stress that any disbursement to an unauthorized figure could lead to legal complications that may not be easily resolved. They point out that signatories at the bank, rather than individual office bearers, should determine access to such funds.
“In no way should political confusion cloud the fundamental principles that govern our political financing,” argued Nqobani Sithole, Tshabangu’s attorney. “The Act clearly stipulates that funds should be disbursed to the institution, not the individual office bearers.”
As Tshabangu’s position grows precarious, the High Court’s decision will be crucial in determining the future distribution of the significant financial resources intended for the CCC. This case not only highlights the ongoing struggles within one of Zimbabwe’s major opposition parties but also the broader issues of governance and accountability in political funding.- Agencies