By Political Reporter-The Secretary-General of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), Sengezo Tshabangu, has intensified his controversial shake-up of party structures, targeting senior MPs and parliamentary leaders aligned with Welshman Ncube.
The latest wave of dismissals includes Lynette Karenyi-Kore, Chikanga MP and former Leader of the House in Parliament, who Sunningdale legislator Maureen Kademaunga replaced.
Karenyi-Kore was previously named CCC’s president on a rotational basis with Ncube but has yet to assume the role, fueling speculation about internal party rifts.
Edwin Mushoriwa, the former Chief Whip, was replaced by Charles Moyo, with Sam Chapfudza taking over as Deputy Chief Whip. Tshabangu also removed several Parliamentary Portfolio Committee chairpersons, reshaping key legislative roles:
- Zivai Mhetu replaced Caston Matewu (Media, Information & Broadcasting Services).
- Thokozani Khupe assumed the chairpersonship of the Higher and Tertiary Education Committee, replacing Minenhle Ntandoyenkosi Gumede.
- Senator Maxwell Mdhluri replaced Sithabisiwe Moyo as head of the Thematic Committee on Indigenisation.
Youth Caucus leadership was also overhauled, with Richard Tsvangirai appointed Deputy Chairperson and S. Dube taking over as Secretary, replacing Takudzwa Ngadziore and Ropafadzo Makumire, respectively.
The reshuffle has sparked unrest within CCC ranks. Mushoriwa announced his resignation in a WhatsApp group for CCC legislators, stating:
“Just to advise that my six-month stint as opposition Chief Whip has come to an end. I received communication from the Clerk of Parliament this morning.”
Factional tensions were evident in comments from party spokesperson Willias Madzimure, who downplayed knowledge of the changes, stating:
“If it was party business led by Welshman Ncube, I would know. If it was from someone else, I wouldn’t.”
Kademaunga, reportedly unaware of her appointment:
“I have no knowledge of this development.”
Tshabangu’s sweeping actions highlight deepening fissures within the CCC, as questions linger over the legitimacy and unity of the party’s leadership.