By Munacho Gwamanda- Controversial and self-imposed interim secretary-general of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), Sengezo Tshabangu, has abruptly withdrawn his support for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s third-term bid, declaring that his faction will oppose any constitutional amendments to extend Mnangagwa’s rule beyond 2028.

This announcement comes just weeks after Tshabangu publicly endorsed Mnangagwa’s potential third term during a high-profile visit to the president’s Precabe farm in Sherwood, Kwekwe.

His previous stance had drawn sharp criticism from opposition figures, who accused him of betraying the democratic cause and aligning with ZANU PF’s authoritarian ambitions.

However, following a meeting with Speaker of the National Assembly Jacob Mudenda, Tshabangu has reversed his position.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Nqobizitha Mlilo, he denounced the third-term agenda as “repulsive and repugnant,” arguing that it is incompatible with Zimbabwe’s democratic aspirations.
“The recurring question: Will the CCC support calls for President Mnangagwa’s third term? Framed this way, it’s a pointless discussion,” said Mlilo. “The postponement of the 2028 elections or the so-called 2030 agenda cannot be reduced to the messianic redemption of a country by an individual. These matters have not been lawfully presented in any legitimate forum of national governance—they remain an internal ZANU PF issue.”

Tshabangu’s abrupt shift has raised eyebrows, with critics questioning his sincerity and political motivations.

Many believe that without the backing of state institutions, he would not have been able to seize control of the CCC, leading to suspicions that he remains indebted to ZANU PF.