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The Law Society of Zimbabwe (LSZ) has deregistered Doreen Vundhla Phulu, wife of Kucaca Ivumile Phulu, who was appointed as a Senator by controversial CCC activist Sengezo Tshabangu.
LSZ spokesperson Richard Chidza confirmed the deregistration in an exclusive interview with <a href="https://masvingomirror.com/tshabangu-senators-wife-deregistered/">The Mirror</a>.
Doreen is accused of prejudicing many clients of properties and money with value running into millions of US dollars. Said Chidza:
<blockquote>
Please note that the Law Society of Zimbabwe early this year made an application for Ms Doreen Vundla-Phulu’s deregistration before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal. The application was granted and she has since been deregistered.
</blockquote>
Doreen, who is married to Phulu, was a principal partner in Vundhla Phulu and Partners. She was engaged by clients for conveyancing and legal representation.
However, various clients complained to LSZ that Doreen prejudiced clients through forgery, misuse of money, negligence, misrepresentations and unauthorised discounts and payments in RTGS.
Phulu was among several CCC senators controversially appointed by Tshabangu after he seized the opposition party last year and recalled legitimately elected senators.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Law Society Deregisters Tshabangu Appointed Senator’s Wife

ZAPU has refuted the claims made by Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activist Sengezo Tshabangu, who claimed to have engaged the party’s president, Sibangilizwe Nkomo, and his sister, Thandiwe Nkomo, in discussions about forming a Government of National Unity (GNU) with ZANU PF.
In a statement, ZAPU National Spokesperson, Richard Gandari, said Tshabangu made false claims on the VOA Studio 7 Ndebele bulletin which aired on 7 May 2024. Said Gandari:
<blockquote>
The truth of the matter is that our President, Cde Sibangilizwe Nkomo, casually met Mr Tshabangu by chance, during Chief Dakamela’s traditional function in Nkayi on the 7th of April, 2024.
It was a mere handshake and photo opportunity at Mr Tshabangu’s request. Out of civil courtesy and ubuntu, President Nkomo obliged and spent at most a couple of minutes interacting with Mr Tshabangu.
Apart from cordial greetings and casual pleasantries, nothing of political substance was ever discussed. For the record, it was our President’s first time meeting the infamous Mr Tshabangu in person.
</blockquote>
Gandari said his party does not want to be associated with Tshabangu’s “tattered brand”. He also suggested that CCC’s contested interim secretary general is mentally unstable. He said:
<blockquote>
Today, we find ourselves with the unenviable task of defending our good name from Mr Tshabangu’s tattered brand. Association with his acerbic name has badly affected the dead and the living in equal measure.
He is a radioactive entity, and unfortunately, hard to avoid during a public function. We believe Mr Tshabangu is a drowning man, desperate to clutch at any straws for personal survival and political relevance.
While we are not medically privy to the state of his mental faculties, it would be naïve to consider him stable, unless his mischief knows no bounds.
Furthermore, we are greatly appalled by the poor journalistic standard used by Studio 7’s Sithandekile Mhlanga, who gave wings to Mr Tshabangu’s flight of fancy.
Whether by mistake or design, Sithandekile casually stated that Sengezo Tshabangu held talks with senior ZANU PF officials before attaching a voice clip of Mr Tshabangu claiming to have talked with “Thandi and Bangilizwe Nkomo.’
This amounts to misinformation with the danger of misleading the public into believing that our ZAPU leader is a ZANU PF official.
We expect better standards and ethics from Studio 7, a respectable station that has given a voice to the voiceless masses of Zimbabwe at home and in the diaspora.
</blockquote>
Tshabangu has been at the centre of controversy within the opposition political landscape of Zimbabwe. In October 2023, Tshabangu claimed to be the interim Secretary General of the CCC, a political movement then led by Nelson Chamisa.
He wrote letters to the Speaker of Parliament and the Minister of Local Government, purporting to recall several CCC MPs and councillors stating that the named individuals had ceased to be members of the CCC.
Among those recalled by Tshabangu included two Harare mayors, the Mayors of Norton and Masvingo and the chairperson of the Epworth Local Board.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZAPU Refutes Tshabangu's Government Of National Unity Claims

The opposition CCC has nominated five candidates to fill the vacancies in the Senate that arose following the recall of five of the party’s senators by Sengezo Tshabangu, who claims to be CCC’s interim secretary general.
They include former Harare Central MP, Murisi Zwizwai, a long-serving opposition legislator.
The names of the nominees were announced this Friday, 12 April 2024 by Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) chairperson Priscilla Makanyara Chigumba in General Notice 460 of 2024. She said:
<blockquote>
The public is hereby notified, in terms of 39(6) of the Electoral Act [Chapter 2:13], that the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party has nominated registered voters specified in the First Schedule, to fill the vacancies in the Senate that occurred following the recall of persons specified in the Second Schedule, who were members of the Senate for the provinces opposite their names by virtue of section 120(1)(a) of the Constitution.
Any voter wishing to object to the nomination of each of the persons specified in the First Schedule, may lodge them in writing with the Chief Elections Officer, Mahachi Quantum Building, corner Kaguvi Street and Jason Moyo Avenue, Harare, or post them to Private Bag 7782, Causeway, within a period of 14 days from the date of publication of this notice, setting forth the reasons for the objection.
</blockquote>
Those specified in the First Schedule are Zwizwai, Tambudzai Kunaka, and Moses Manyengavana, all of Harare Province, and Spiwe Munemo and Tawanda Bvumo, both of Mashonaland West Province.
While the origin of the five candidates’ nominations remains uncertain due to CCC’s factional divisions, it is logical to assume that Tshabangu submitted their names to ZEC as he is the only CCC member who has the authority to recall Members of Parliament who is recognised by State institutions.
Former CCC senators, specified in the Second Schedule were recalled by Tshabangu last year. They are Vongai Tome, Webster Maondera, and Jameson Timba, all from Harare Province, and Editor Eremenziah Matamisa and Ralph T. Mangunje, both from Mashonaland West Province.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Tshabangu Nominates Murisi Zwizwai For Senate Seat

The Bulawayo Division of the High Court has ruled in favour of Sengezo Tshabangu, representing a faction of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).
The ruling grants an application to remove Nelson Chamisa and his alleged supporters from the CCC’s Bulawayo office.
According to <a href="https://cite.org.zw/court-orders-removal-of-chamisa-supporters-from-ccc-office/">CITE</a>’s report, High Court Judge Justice David Mangota ruled that although Nelson Chamisa was not physically in Bulawayo, he is unmistakably associated with those who forcefully occupied the CCC provincial party house located at Stand 41, Fort Street, between 2nd and 3rd Avenue. He said:
<blockquote>
Chamisa, in my view, did not have to be in Bulawayo to despoil the applicant of its property. The fact that he could have taken advantage of technological advancements which are currently awash the world over cannot, in the circumstances of the present case, be ruled out,” said the judge in his judgement issued on March 15, 2024.
(Chamisa) must have employed those to achieve his desired end-in view in so far as his despoiling of the applicant is concerned. The old English adage which states, ‘he who acts through another acts himself’ holds true insofar as this application is concerned.
</blockquote>
This comes after CCC filed an urgent court application arguing that Chamisa (former CCC leader), allegedly took control of CCC property through agents, assignees, proxies, or employees.
CCC alleged that supporters of Chamisa painted the property and its precast wall in blue and black colours and also displayed Chamisa’s portrait on the property.
Chamisa opposed the application. He distanced himself from those who “despoiled” the property.
He also stated that he hadn’t physically visited the property since resigning from CCC. Additionally, Chamisa denied involvement in any movement, grouping, or political party.
However, Justice Mangota, said neither Chamisa nor his alleged team denied that the walls of the property were repainted in blue and black. Said the judge:
<blockquote>
Chamisa, in fact, admits the existence of the blue and black colours which appear on the walls of the applicant’s property as depicted in the photographs.
</blockquote>
The judge agreed with CCC and Tshabangu that in despoiling the property, “the dispoliators were acting with, or from, the instructions of Chamisa.” Ruled Mangota:
<blockquote>
The applicant proved its case on a preponderance of probabilities. It is, in the premises, ordered that: 1. The application be and is hereby granted as prayed in the draft order. 2. Each party shall bear its own costs.
</blockquote>
Chamisa decided to leave the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) in January 2024.  He asserted that the CCC had been “contaminated” and “hijacked” by the government.
He also accused the ruling ZANU-PF party of being behind this move, alleging that they abused state institutions to undermine the original purpose and mandate of the CCC.
The party, according to Chamisa, had essentially been “criminally handed over” to ZANU-PF.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

High Court Orders Chamisa And His Supporters To Vacate CCC's Bulawayo Offices

Disputed Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) interim secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu has said his party will support all government programmes. 
He said this at the commissioning of the Pupu memorial site monument in Lupane by President Emmerson Mnangagwa last week.
In an interview with <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local/article/200024703/tshabangu-ccc-differ-on-govt-projects">Southern Eye</a> at the event, Tshabangu, who is the CCC senator for Matabeleland North Province, said his party will support anything that is of national interest. He said:
<blockquote>
This is a very unique and important place and symbolic place for the people of Matabeleland, where the last battle of King Lobengula was fought, fighting imperialism and the whites.
This is where we say the people of Zimbabwe won in that battle, the reason why we are here, we are here to represent and compliment government programmes, we give it a thumbs up.
We are going to be visible in all events that are symbolic, anything that has a national interest we are going to support it.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, CCC steering committee treasurer Mbuso Siso, dismissed Tshabangu’s assertions, saying it is not the party’s position. Said Siso:
<blockquote>
According to the party, Tshabangu remains suspended from the party. Whatever he said at Pupu was not a statement from the party’s information desk, but his own personal statements.
His representation as the Senator of Matebeleland North (province) does not mean he represent the party.
</blockquote>
CCC has split into at least four factions since the August 2023 elections, with Tshabangu’s faction having done the greatest harm to the party by recalling dozens of elected representatives and handing the hard-won seats to ZANU PF on a silver platter.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CCC Will Support All Government Programmes - Tshabangu

Sengezo Tshabangu has said he will not pursue partisan politics but focus on issues that affect citizens such as the El Nino drought, infrastructure development and social services delivery, reported <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/i-will-push-the-national-agenda-tshabangu/">The Herald</a>.
Tshabangu was speaking to journalists on Tuesday, 05 March soon after he and 13 others from CCC were sworn in as senators and members of the National Assembly. He said:
<blockquote>
This is the beginning of a new chapter of politics in Zimbabwe where we are going to focus on issues of national importance and not partisan politics.
</blockquote>
Tshabangu urged CCC legislators who are yet to recognise his authority to embrace his leadership for their own good. He said:
<blockquote>
The movement is very much alive. We have been sworn in today. We are in charge of this movement and we are going to discharge our duties.
Time is ticking away to those fence-sitting. They need to embrace the moving train. We are the people. We are an alternative.
We need to benchmark. We need to put the Government on its toes. We need to put ZANU PF in terms of policy framework.
We are not going to pinpoint each other as ZANU PF or CCC, but we are going to differ in terms of policy direction, principle, ideology, and policy framework, but we will remain Zimbabwean.
We are facing drought. We need to make sure that no one starves or dies of hunger. We are going to hold the Government accountable.
Look at the state of our roads and hospitals. We are going to make sure that these issues are addressed.
</blockquote>
The 13 legislators in both the Senate and the National Assembly were replacing those who were recalled by Tshabangu last year.
They were all party list seats where parties were allocated numbers based on their support in the August elections.
Senators who took the oath of office were Sengezo Tshabangu, Lilian Mlilo, Kucaca Ivumile Phulu, Linda Sibanda, Colleta Ndlovu, Sam Chapfudza, Maxwell Mdhluri Teresa Kabondo and Grace Mumpande.
In the National Assembly, those who took oath were Nomvula Mguni, Otilia Sibanda, Lungile Ncube, Sibongile Maphosa and Sikhuphukile Dube.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Our Focus Is On National Issues, Not Partisan Politics - Senator Tshabangu

Sengezo Tshabangu and Kucaca Phulu, a former PDP vice president, were among nine Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) members sworn in as senators at the New Parliament Building in Mt Hampden this Tuesday.
The other CCC members sworn in as senators include, Lilian Mlilo, Linda Sibanda and Collet Ndhlovu all from Bulawayo Province, Teresa Kabondo and Grace Mampande from Matabeleland North Province, and Maxwell Mdhluri and Sam Chapfudza from Manicaland and Masvingo provinces respectively.
Tshabangu is from Matabeleland North, while Phulu is from Bulawayo.
This comes after a Government gazette’s General Notice 291 of 2024 in which the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) chairperson Priscilla Chigumba confirmed the list of the new senators.
The gazette also confirmed the list that will fill Proportional Representation vacancies in the National Assembly and these include Nomvula Mguni, Otilia Sibanda, Lungile Ncube and Sikhuphukile Dube all from Bulawayo.
Sibongile Maphosa will fill the same vacancy for Matabeleland South Province.
Tshabangu recalled several CCC senators and PR MPs in the National Assembly who were sworn in soon after the August 2023 general elections so that he and his close colleagues would grab the vacant seats and join the “gravy train”.
Tshabangu was virtually unknown before the general elections, and ordinary voters were left asking how he acquired the authority to expel their representatives with scant regard for their expectations in defiance of the party’s then-president Nelson Chamisa.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Tshabangu Sworn In As A Senator

Former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader, Nelson Chamisa, has said he is not involved with any current political organisation or movement.
Since he resigned from CCC on 25 January 2024, Chamisa has not publicly stated his plans despite some of his key allies such as Amos Chibaya, Gift Siziba and Prince Dubeko Sibanda holding mini-rallies where he is eulogised.
Chamisa deposed an opposing affidavit at the Bulawayo High Court on 27 February 2024 in response to Sengezo Tshabangu, who, posing as the interim CCC Secretary General, filed an urgent chamber application in early February to recover the party’s provincial offices in Bulawayo.
Tshabangu argued that the CCC party offices had been seized by some youths who claimed to be Chamisa’s supporters after he resigned from the party on 25 January 2024.
Chamisa alleges that “many people” who have no connection to him misappropriated his name and image.
In the CCC’s urgent court application, Tshabangu stated that their office – the Gertrude Mthombeni House – situated at Number 41 Fort Street between Second and Third Avenue in Bulawayo is where all provincial party documents are kept, party activities and programmes are conducted.
Tshabangu stated that Chamisa’s supporters forcibly took “control, occupation, and possession” of the building and painted the whole office and precast wall in blue and black.
Blue is the colour associated with the so-called the Democratic Alternative in Zimbabwe movement allegedly led by Chamisa.
However, in his opposing affidavit filed at the Bulawayo Division of the High Court, Chamisa said:
<blockquote>
4.1. I deny all the allegations of fact and conclusions of law made in this application in their entirety. I did not despoil any person of any premises or offices anywhere in Zimbabwe and I have certainly not done so in Bulawayo. I have set of offices which are located in Harare. I am presently not with any movement, grouping political party. I did not direct, require, or encourage anyone to take over the premises which are referred to by the deponent to the founding affidavit as attributed to me. I resigned as the leader of the Applicant and since that resignation I have not physically been to Bulawayo. I completely have nothing to do with the Applicant.
4.2 If there is anyone in occupation the deponent to the founding affidavit knows who they are and that its not me. The Applicant must sue those people, if ever they exist, and instead of harassing me.
4.3 I submit that this application is a revolting abuse of Court process to grandstand and seek relevance by the deponent to the founding affidavit through dragging my name into this charade. The claims that I have despoiled the Applicant because some premises which I have no connection to have been painted blue and my face has been painted on the wall of the premises is completely bizarre. My image and name have been appropriated by many people who have no connection to me. In fact, the irony of the application is that since I resigned as the leader of the Citizens Coalition for Change, the Applicant and the deponent to the founding affidavit have continued to use my face on their preferred logo. I wish to reiterate that I have no special association with any colour, any political organisation or any movement.
4.4 The present application is a nuisance and a frivolity in the highest degree which seeks to drag the Court into the deponent’s tired and base political schemes. It is an egregious violation which has been concocted by the deponent to the founding affidavit and other similar minded persons. I believe that for this reason, the deponent to the founding affidavit must be made to pay my costs of suit de bonis propriis on the scale of legal practitioner and client.
WHEREFORE, I pray that the application be dismissed with my costs of suit being paid on the scale of legal practitioner and client by Sengezo Tshabangu.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chamisa Denies Association With Blue Colour Or Involvement With Any Political Movement

CCC acting president Welshman Ncube has denied allegations that he was Sengezo Tshabangu’s handler and responsible for the recalls of the party’s Members of Parliament and Councillors in 2022.
There were claims that Ncube and Tendai Biti were behind Tshabangu and were using him to decimate the opposition party to spite party leader Nelson Chamisa.
However, speaking to <a href="https://cite.org.zw/ncube-denies-controlling-tshabangu-blames-him-for-ccc-recalls/">CITE</a>, Ncube said he only got to know about the recalls when a friend based in the diaspora called to inform him. He said:
<blockquote>
The truth of the matter is that I, as an individual, first learned about the first wave of recalls from a friend in the diaspora.
They called me and said, ‘Nelson Chamisa has recalled people.’ I said, ‘No, that’s not possible.’ They insisted there was a letter in parliament recalling people.
I said, ‘It’s not possible. Give me the names of the people who have been recalled.’
They gave me the names, and I said, ‘Chamisa can’t recall the names of the people you are saying, because some of them are his closest friends and allies. It’s not possible.’
They said there was a letter, and they sent the letter signed by Sengezo Tshabangu.
I said, ‘But Tshabangu is not the interim SG of CCC.’ I called him asking if he signed it, and he said, ‘Yes, I wrote it.’
I said, ‘Like how? You do this without even telling some of us?’ He said, ‘We knew,’ using a plural pronoun, ‘we knew that you would not approve, but we did it.’
</blockquote>
Ncube said the second wave of recalls occurred while he was mourning his late mother. He said:
<blockquote>
The people who came to the funeral said to me, ’73 people have been recalled,’ and I said, ‘Really?’ They said, ‘Yes, the letters have gone.’
I again called Tshabangu and said to him, ‘Have you recalled these people?’ He said, ‘No, I haven’t recalled people.’ 
So, I assured people that I had spoken to Tshabangu, and he said he has not recalled anybody.
Then when 23 people were recalled, I called him again. I said, ‘But you said you haven’t recalled anybody.’
He said, ‘No, I said I hadn’t recalled 73 people. I didn’t say I hadn’t recalled anybody.’
I said, ‘But surely you should have then said it’s not true that 73 people have been recalled, only 23 people have been recalled.’
So, this couldn’t have been happening if Tshabangu was not his own man. If Tshabangu was controlled by me, and I know for a fact that VP Biti didn’t control Tshabangu, he was as much in the dark as I was.
</blockquote>
Chamisa eventually quit CCC alleging the party had been captured by ZANU PF through proxies.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"Tshabangu Was Acting Alone", Welshman Ncube Denies Complicity In CCC Recalls

Promise Mkwananzi has announced that Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume is no longer a member of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party. Mkwananzi stated that Mafume was dismissed for associating with the party’s disputed secretary general, Sengezo Tshabangu. This came after Mafume declared that the CCC faction led by Tshabangu held a meeting in Bulawayo and appointed interim presidents for the party.
Mafume explained that Welshman Ncube, Tendai Biti, and Lynette Karenyi-Kore were selected as interim presidents, with each leader serving for 90 days before passing the role to the next person. Ncube would be the first to assume this position. Mafume was elected as the party’s national spokesperson, taking over from Promise Mkwananzi in August 2023, who had held the position previously.

<ul>
<li class="text-4xl border-b-2 border-[#e8e9ea] tracking-tight pb-4 font-bold pt-4"><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2024/02/17/welshman-ncube-tendai-biti-karenyi-kore-appointed-ccc-interim-presidents-amid-leadership-crisis/">Welshman Ncube, Tendai Biti, Karenyi-Kore Appointed CCC Interim Presidents Amid Leadership Crisis</a></li>
</ul>
During the meeting, it was also decided to reactivate the MDC 2019 congress posts, resulting in Chalton Hwende resuming the position of secretary general. These appointments are temporary until the party conducts an elective congress to choose permanent leaders, according to Mafume. However, in a statement seen by Pindula News, Mkwananzi, who still identifies himself as the CCC spokesperson, declared that these appointments hold no validity, implying internal factional conflicts within the party. Mkwananzi said:
<blockquote>
We have called the present press conference to update the citizens of Zimbabwe, the International community and all stakeholders of the change project on several key developments within the party and in our spaces within the governance structure of the country.
As you may now be aware, the party’s founder and leader, President Advocate Nelson Chamisa resigned as leader and head of the Citizens Coalition for Change; a history which we shall not regurgitate at this presser. It is at the backdrop of the said resignation that the party’s Citizens National Assembly convened and resolved the question of the leadership vacuum occasioned by the President’s resignation from the party. The undoubted consensus within the party’s membership and progressive leadership is that the President had become a target of a deliberate project sponsored by the parallel state and implemented by a fatigued and positions hungry lot seeking to sustain a Zanu PF rule in Zimbabwe.
It is important that we clarify that the resignation of the President was by no means intended to burn the party and its assets to the ground. The resignation has in fact breathed life to and sustained the fight for democratic transition in our country.
The struggle for democratic transition in Zimbabwe is undergoing a transition. That transition, entails the falling away of an old culture, old tendencies and old politics and to some extent, old personalities and characters. There is an unstoppable and refreshing birth of the new; characterised by a new culture of politics that is people centred as opposed to being position centred. The sacrifice by President Nelson Chamisa to abandon an institution which he founded must be understood in the context of this painful but real transition. We have to assert at this juncture that the CNA has resolved that the CCC and its deployees (MPs and Councillors) remain committed to the transitional process which will deliver a New Great Zimbabwe led by Adv. Nelson Chamisa.
Let there be no doubt, the party and its membership, represented by the resolutions of the CNA has given the task of managing the internal transitional processes of the party to Senator Jameson Timba who leads the Administration Bureau of the party with representation from all the ten provinces in Zimbabwe. Senator Jameson Timba, a senior political leader within the democratic movement in Zimbabwe carries a collective and technical mandate of running the affairs of the party ahead of President Nelson Chamisa’s treatise on the next step. In conformity with his mandate, Senator Jameson Timba announced a series of key appointments in the party’s Parliamentary leadership structure which has been confirmed by the Parliament of Zimbabwe.
All party deployees in Parliament are called upon to co-operate and work with the stated leadership in executing the party’s legislative agenda and in advancing the interests of the citizens. Any acts of insubordination, sabotage and rebellion shall be considered an affront to the country’s democratisation agenda and shall be meted with legal and political processes to ensure struggle discipline.
The party has taken note of the growing concerns around numerous evictions which have been carried out by the ZANU PF government in various parts of the country. We are concerned with the obvious affront to human rights and livelihood of many Zimbabwean citizens affected by what appears to be consequences of an unclosed chapter of a fractured land reform program. The party has thus appointed its Legal and Parliamentary Affairs bureau head, Honourable Agency Gumbo to lead a commission constituted by Members of Parliament and Councillors to embark on a national fact finding mission which will inform the party’s response to this growing national concern.
We further wish to communicate, unequivocally to the public, that there is a team which is presently moving around provinces carrying a special mandate of informing our base on the state of affairs in the democratic alternative. We dispel any notion and or innuendos thereof, by our detractors who seek to suggest a rift and lack of consensus on the strategic steps which are a parcel of the party’s internal transitional process. Without saying much, we advise the citizens of Zimbabwe to remain vigilant and understand that there is cohesion in the processes currently underway.
We have taken note of some rotten apples seeking to further the contamination within the party and its deployees. We have heard timid whispers emanating from Holiday Inn in Bulawayo wherein one Jacob Mafume mischievously makes pronouncements about the leadership of the CCC. We state categorically that the said pronouncements are null and void and are not a representation of the collective wisdom and resolution of the Citizens National Assembly.
We wish to state that Mr Mafume is not authorised to speak for and on behalf of the party, his obvious link with Sengezo Tshabangu and the unlawful recalls has now been confirmed. His reference to a supposed link between the CCC and the leadership of the MDC A is not only mischievous but a confirmation that he has ceased to be a member of the CCC. Accordingly, any deployee or leader of CCC who associates with this mischief will automatically cease to be a member of the party and the relevant political and legal consequences shall ensue.
Promise Mkwananzi 
National Spokesperson 
ONE PEOPLE ONE NATION ONE VISION
</blockquote>
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Promise Mkwananzi Says Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume No Longer A Member Of CCC Party

Disputed Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) interim secretary-general <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Sengezo_Tshabangu">Sengezo Tshabangu</a> is now a member of the Senate.
In a Government Gazette published this Friday, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) chairperson named Tshabangu among the new CCC lawmakers.
Tshabangu, Teresa Kabondo and Grace Mpande will represent CCC in Matabeleland North Province in the Senate, Maxwell Mdhluri will be the senator for Manicaland, Sam Chapfudza will represent Masvingo, while Lilian Mlilo, Kucaca Ivumile Phulu, Linda Sibanda, and Collet Ndhlovu are the new CCC senators for Bulawayo.
Those who were recalled include Zivira Hellen, Shoko Gideon, Ncube Siphiwe, Sibanda Felix Magalela, Chimhini David Antony, Madzikanda Godfrey, Mativenga, Moyo Anastasia, Gabuza Gabbuza Joel and Sibanda Tenda.
CCC candidates nominated to fill Proportional Representation vacancies in the National Assembly include Nomvula Mguni, Otilia Sibanda, Lungile Ncube and Sikhuphukile Dube all from Bulawayo. Sibongile Maphosa will fill the same vacancy for Matabeleland South Province.
The recalled were Mlilo Stabile, Toffa Jasmine, Dube Janeth, Nkomo Velisiwe and Zana Sivina Evidence.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Sengezo Tshabangu Now A Senator

The ruling party in Zimbabwe, ZANU PF, has gained a two-thirds majority in Parliament after winning at least two constituencies in recent by-elections. These by-elections took place on Saturday 4 February 2024 to fill vacancies left by the recalls of Members of Parliament and councillors by CCC’s disputed interim secretary general Sengezo Tshabangu. Six constituencies held by-elections, including Chegutu West, Seke, Goromonzi South, Mkoba North, Pelandaba-Tshabalala, and Zvimba East.
ZANU PF was able to secure a two-thirds parliamentary majority, which they had failed to achieve in the general elections held on 23-24 August 2023. They only needed to win three seats to reach this majority. They now have 190 seats in the 280-member National Assembly.
In Marondera, ZANU PF won all three vacant council seats. In Ward 10, ZANU PF received 489 votes compared to CCC’s 152. In Ward 8, ZANU PF had 435 votes while CCC had 121. In Ward 3, ZANU PF received 325 votes while CCC had 73.
Zvimba East constituency:
ZANU PF’s Kudakwashe Mananzva won the Zvimba East constituency with 10,359 votes, defeating independent candidate Oliver Mutasa and CCC’s Agrippa Alberito, who received 1992 and 855 votes respectively. Oliver Mutasa, a recalled CCC MP, ran as an independent candidate.
Pelandaba-Tshabalala constituency:
Joseph Tshuma of ZANU PF won the Pelandaba-Tshabalala constituency with 1845 votes, defeating CCC’s Moreblessing Tembo (464 votes) and DOP’s Abraham Yona Nkomo (156 votes). This constituency was previously represented by Gift ‘Ostallos’ Siziba before his recall by the CCC.
Seke Constituency:
Kashambe Munyaradzi Tobias, who belongs to the ZANU PF party, has been elected as the Member of Parliament for Seke Constituency. He received 8,586 votes with Everisto Chisi getting 669 votes, while Willard T. Madzimbamuto received 2401 votes. 
Mkoba North:
ZANU PF also claimed Mkoba North, with candidate Ncube Edgar receiving 2,415 votes and defeating Patrick Tayiya of DOP, who received 1,663 votes. The seat was previously held by CCC MP Amos Chibaya, who was recalled and then barred from standing in the by-election by a court.
Chegutu West Constituency:
Shakemore Timburwa of ZANU PF won the by-election in Chegutu West Constituency, becoming the MP with 6,697 votes. The previous CCC candidate, Admore Chivero, lost as an independent candidate, receiving 2,626 votes. Gift Konjana of MDC-A received 668 votes.
Goromonzi South Constituency:
In Goromonzi South Constituency, Washington Zhanda of ZANU PF won with 6,865 votes, while Reuben Chikudo of CCC received 1,067 votes.
The Election Resource Centre, an election watchdog, noted that voter turnout remained extremely low, averaging 13% at observed polling stations by noon on election day.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

ZANU PF Secures Two-Thirds Majority In Zimbabwe Parliament After February By-Elections

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) says it is 100 per cent ready to conduct by-elections this Saturday, with the distribution of ballot papers already done.
ZEC vice chairperson Rodney Kiwa said that about 230 400 ballot papers have been printed for the six constituencies, while 136 850 ballot papers were printed for local authority by-elections.
552 polling stations will used in the by-elections.
Six National Assembly constituencies will be having by-elections, that is, Seke, Goromonzi South, Pelandaba-Tashabalala, Chegutu West, Zvimba East, and Mkoba North.
On Friday, disputed CCC interim secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu successfully obtained leave of the High Court to execute the court’s judgment, granted two weeks ago, barring the 23 CCC party candidates from contesting in the by-elections.
Justice Pisirayi Kwenda, who presided over the case a fortnight ago, ruled in Tshabangu’s favour again and granted the latter leave to execute pending an appeal by the party’s recalled elected representatives in the Supreme Court.
Those barred from contesting in the polls on a CCC ticket include deputy spokesperson Gift “Ostallos” Siziba who was a legislator for Pelandaba-Tshabalala, the former CCC Chief Whip Amos Chibaya who was Mkoba North Member of Parliament, and Stephen Chagwiza who was representing Goromonzi South.
Former Harare Mayor Ian Makone who was Councillor for Ward 18 is also among the 20 councillors who were barred from contesting in today’s by-elections.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZEC Says Ready For Today’s By-elections

The High Court in Harare on Friday, 02 February granted CCC’s disputed Interim Secretary General, Sengezo Tshabangu, leave to execute pending an appeal by the party’s recalled elected representatives in the Supreme Court, the court’s judgment which removed the names of the affected members from the ballot papers for tomorrow’s by-elections.
Tshabangu approached the High Court after the former MPs and Councillors, whom he recalled, among them Amos Chibaya and Gift “Ostallos” Siziva, successfully filed nomination papers to contest the 03 February by-elections.
The former CCC MPs and councillors then appealed against the High Court ruling at the Supreme Court, which is yet to make a ruling on the application.
Since it is a generally acceptable principle that at common law the noting of an appeal suspends the operation of a judgment, Tshabangu approached the High Court to ensure that the ruling that barred the recalled members from running in tomorrow’s by-elections, is enforced pending appeal.
In his ruling, Justice Pisirayi Kwenda declared:
<blockquote>
The application be and is hereby granted.
The applicants be and are hereby granted leave to execute this court’s judgment in case no HCH 197/24 pending the appeal in case no SC44/24.
Each party shall bear its costs.
</blockquote>
This means that the likes of Chibaya and Siziva will not stand for Mkoba North and Pelandala-Tshabalala, respectively, as CCC candidates in the 03 February by-elections.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

03 Feb. By-elections: High Court Shuts Door On Chibaya, Ostallos

The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) is facing internal divisions following the resignation of party leader Nelson Chamisa. Two rival factions have announced separate plans for the party’s future. One faction, aligned with Chamisa, resolved to engage with him and form an interim committee to lead the party, the <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/thestandard/amp/local-news/article/200022494/ccc-drama-rages-on">Standard</a> reported. They expressed their determination to defend the party and the people’s struggle against ZANU-PF and its allies.
Speaking at a press conference, the party’s national spokesperson, Promise Mkwananzi also known as Promise Pfunye in some circles, said the Citizens National Assembly (CNA) resolved never to surrender the party to ZANU PF proxies. He said:
<blockquote>
In that regard, the CNA resolved never to surrender the struggle to ZANU PF and its cronies and will do everything possible to defend the people’s struggle and citizens’ interests, including court cases, illegal recalls and impostors, political arrests, the position of our deployees in councils and Parliament, shrinking democratic space, economic challenges, illegitimacy and many others.
During this transitional period, the CNA resolves to engage with Chamisa and the masses of our people across the country, advising the direction and way forward that the country and the party must take.
</blockquote>
Mkwananzi said they had appointed Senator Jameson Timba, as the chairperson of an administrative committee that includes Lesley Mukurazhizha, Ralf Magunje, Gideon Shoko, David Chimini, Prince Dubeko-Sibanda, Morgan Ncube, one Gondongwe, Susan Matsunga, Josiah Makombe and Maggie Chakabuda. He said the committee remains solidly behind Nelson Chamisa who resigned from the party on 24 January 2024 citing infiltration and hijacking of the party by ZANU PF and its allies within CCC.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2024/01/31/we-only-know-promise-mkwananzi-as-leader-of-tajamuka-sesijikile-ccc-official/">Another Faction</a></h3>
The other faction, led by disputed interim secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu, appointed an interim steering committee which will organise a congress to elect new party leadership ‘soon.’
The committee includes Dingilizwe Tshuma, former legislator for Entumbane-Njube constituency in Bulawayo as chair; Albert Mhlanga (former Pumula MP and deputy); Sengezo Tshabangu (secretary-general); Khaliphani Phugeni (information); Sikhululekile Moyo (interim chairperson for women); Nomvula Mguni (ex-proportional representation MP), Mbuso Siso (treasurer) and Benoni Ncube (youth).
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2024/01/31/we-only-know-promise-mkwananzi-as-leader-of-tajamuka-sesijikile-ccc-official/">The committee dismissed a proposal</a> by the MDC Alliance National Standing Committee, which met on 28 January 2024 and discussed CCC affairs, to revert to the party’s 2019 structures. Mbuso Siso said the MDC Alliance National Standing Committee is illegitimate due to a Supreme Court ruling in 2020 that declared Nelson Chamisa as not the legitimate leader of the MDC-T. Siso asserted that the structures that emerged from the MDC Alliance Congress of 2019 were nullified by the Supreme Court decision and cannot be imposed on CCC. He cautioned against dragging the party back into past conflicts and inviting Douglas Mwonzora, the leader of the MDC-T, back into the fold.
Amidst these divisions, some Members of Parliament have resigned expressing concerns about the party being controlled by the ruling party. They are pledging their loyalty to Chamisa who is allegedly planning to launch a new political movement.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Internal Divisions Intensify In The Citizens Coalition For Change (CCC) After Chamisa's Resignation

Sengezo Tshabangu, the disputed secretary general of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), recently disclosed that he negotiated with the State for the release of Job Sikhala, a prominent opposition figure. Tshabangu explained in a radio interview that he sent a delegation from the CCC to engage in talks with the authorities. He believed that a political solution was necessary to secure Sikhala’s freedom since he considered him a “political prisoner.” He told ZiFM Stereo:
<blockquote>
I am negotiating with the State for Sikhala’s release. I will be sending a delegation to meet the State authorities that Job is not supposed to be where he is because he was thrown under the bus by our movement and this is sad that our movement can go and visit Sikhala and cry and yawn for his release yet they know behind their back.
I am saying this because I am inside CCC. I will be meeting Ziyambi Ziyambi, the minister of justice. I will also be meeting in the near future Obert Mpofu, the Secretary General of ZANU PF. These are the people that I have sent emissaries to meet with. It is underway.
</blockquote>
Tshabangu expressed his disappointment that the CCC, despite publicly advocating for Sikhala’s release, was not actively working towards it. He stated that he would personally meet with government officials, including the Minister of Justice and the Secretary General of the ruling party, ZANU PF, to discuss Sikhala’s case. Tshabangu also sought support from the Southern African Development Community (SADC), a regional organization, and informed them of their engagement with ZANU PF for Sikhala’s release.
According to Tshabangu, legal avenues to secure Sikhala’s release had proven ineffective. He argued that Sikhala’s situation was different from that of a common criminal because he was considered a political prisoner, drawing parallels with Nelson Mandela’s imprisonment during the apartheid era in South Africa. He added that Tendai Biti’s release in 2008 when he was arrested for treason was also negotiated.
Tshabangu accused associates of Nelson Chamisa, the former leader of the CCC, of hindering Sikhala’s release. He claimed that individuals with criminal backgrounds influenced Chamisa to avoid pursuing a political solution for Sikhala’s freedom.
Job Sikhala, who had been in pre-trial detention since June 2022 on charges of inciting public violence, was ultimately released on January 30, 2024, after Magistrate Tafadzwa Miti handed him a suspended 2-year jail term.
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<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>
</div>
</div>

Tshabangu Negotiated With The State For Job Sikhala's Release

Members of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) who were barred from participating in the upcoming by-elections have filed an appeal at the Supreme Court. Sengezo Tshabangu, who is the disputed Secretary General of the party, has reportedly not opposed the appeal. Tshabangu recalled these members and went to court to block them from participating in the by-elections under the CCC banner. He argued that it was unreasonable for them to represent a party that had recalled them because they were no longer its members.
Some of the appellants mentioned in the appeal are Amos Chibaya, Gift Siziba, Abel Nyakarombo, Tomson Magaluwa, Bornface Tagwirei, Roger Chikonye, Musingashari Musingashari, Sophia Rudo Gwasira, Cloud Nengomasha, Simon Mapuvire, Alice Kundlande, Loyce Tigiri, Ninion Varandeni, Dyke Mukumbi, Lovemore Maiko, Kudakwashe John, Kumirai Rutsvava, Ian Muteto Makone, Simon Machisvo, Jerita Mutingwende, Samuel Gwenzi, and Innocent Kuziva Haparari, along with the Citizens Coalition for Change itself.
They cited the Citizens Coalition for Change as the first respondent and Sengezo Tshabangu as the second respondent.
If Tshabangu does not oppose the appeal, the Supreme Court may grant a default judgment in favour of the appellants, allowing them to contest the by-elections under the CCC party. Some observers believe that Tshabangu won’t oppose the appeal to keep the MPs under CCC, as that is better than letting them follow Nelson Chamisa, who resigned from CCC on January 24, 2024. Several elected MPs resigned after Chamisa’s resignation, claiming that the CCC party had been infiltrated and taken over by the ruling ZANU PF and its affiliates within the CCC. Some MPs are waiting to see what Chamisa plans to do, while others are consulting with their constituents.
There have been previous claims by opposition members that the courts are biased and would rule in favour of Tshabangu. However, some believe that the courts will rule in favour of the appellants this time to leave Chamisa without influential followers. They argue that the ZANU PF government is not afraid of CCC but is afraid of Chamisa, so isolating him would weaken him.
Meanwhile, Promise Mkwananzi, who wrote to Parliament claiming to be the acting party president, hinted at bringing Chamisa back to the party.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

CCC MPs Barred From By-Elections File Supreme Court Appeal, Tshabangu Hasn't Opposed

Promise Mkwananzi, the spokesperson of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party, has informed Parliament that he is now the acting president of the party until a congress can be held. In a letter to Parliament, Mkwananzi stated that all party correspondence should be directed to him. He claimed that this decision was made following the resignation of Advocate Nelson Chamisa, the party’s former president. Read the letter:
<blockquote>
<h3>RE: NOTIFICATION OF ACTING PRESIDENT AND CHANNEL OF CORRESPONDENCE</h3>
Following the resignation of our President Advocate Nelson Chamisa, this letter serves to notify you that the party has resolved that party spokesperson Mr Promise Mkwananzi takes charge of the party on an acting capacity until the conduction of congress in due course. This is a position agreed to by all key organs of the party. Accordingly, your esteemed offices are kindly requested to make all correspondence with and from the party through Mr Promise Mkwananzi. Looking forward to a cordial working relationship.
Yours faithfully
Promise Mkwananzi
National Spokesperson &amp; A/President
</blockquote>
As the acting president, Mkwananzi has outlined his plans for the party. Firstly, he intends to address the recalls that were initiated by the disputed interim secretary general, Sengezo Tshabangu, targeting CCC Members of Parliament and councillors. He said:
<blockquote>
In the coming days, we are going to fight for the following items:
1. That the recall letter submitted by the party to the ministry of local government, public works and national housing on Monday the 15th of January 2023 be expedited and effected.
2. That our candidates for the 3rd of February 2023 by-elections who are about to be unlawfully barred from participating be allowed to contest in line with the laws of Zimbabwe. It is a paradox that purported opposition leaders are at the forefront of barring fellow opposition leaders from contesting.
3. That all our Proportional Representatives in senate, parliament and council who were unlawfully recalled be retained as they had been selected by our leader and President Advocate Nelson Chamisa after the 23rd of August 2023 disputed elections.
4. That Hon Job Sikhala be immediately and unconditionally released from prison and compensated for the wrongful arrest and illegal detention.
</blockquote>
Mkwananzi expressed his admiration and loyalty to Nelson Chamisa, hinting at the possibility of bringing him back to the CCC. He compared Chamisa to a father who is chased away from home by crooks. He said the only option for his sons is to arm themselves and fight the bandits to bring back the exiled father. He said:
<blockquote>
Chamisa is not just my leader, he is also my mentor. Kana ukasvika kumusha nhubu dzadzinga Baba pamusha unonhonga tsvimbo wodzoza Baba pamusha.
</blockquote>
Chamisa resigned from the CCC on 24 January 2024, claiming that the party had been infiltrated and hijacked by the ruling ZANU PF and its allies within the CCC. It is speculated that Chamisa may now establish a social or political movement that differs from a traditional political party. His departure worsened the leadership crisis in CCC which had started shortly before the August 23, 2023 harmonised elections.
The CCC party was established in January 2022 and has been led by interim leaders. The party announced that a permanent leadership would be elected at an upcoming congress, but the date for this event is yet to be announced. Before the 2023 elections, the party’s leader, Chamisa, dissolved the party’s structures, allegedly to prevent infiltration. He retained his own position as president, but this decision caused disagreements among other party leaders, leading to divisions within the party.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Mkwananzi Informs Parliament He's The Acting President Of CCC, Hints At Bringing Chamisa Back

Promise Mkwananzi, the spokesperson of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party, has dismissed a statement circulating on social media that claims the national leadership elected at the 2019 Gweru National Congress will take charge of the party following Nelson Chamisa’s resignation. In a post seen by Pindula News, Mkwananzi stated that the statement is bogus and that a formal statement will be issued soon. He said the party did not exist in 2019 and does not have a structure known as the Standing Committee. He urged party members to remain patient until official communication is made through their verified social media accounts. He said:
<blockquote>
Citizen’s Coalition For Change refutes a statement purportedly issued on its behalf on the 28th of January 2024 by unknown people claiming to be a Standing Committee.
CCC was formed on the 24th of January 2022 and only celebrated its 2nd anniversary a few days ago. The party did not exist in 2019 and does not have a structure known as the Standing Committee. The party is yet to conduct its inaugural congress.
CCC decisions are taken by its supreme decision-making body; the Citizens National Assembly (CNA) assisted by Provincial Taskforces and District Clusters.
CCC deployees in parliament and local authorities, activists, members, local leaders, supporters and members of the public are urged to remain patient until formal communication regarding the way forward is made and confirmed to be authentic.
Kindly disregard any statement purpoting to be from CCC which does not appear on the official social media handles of the party.
</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2024/01/26/mdc-alliance-gweru-congress-leadership-now-in-charge-of-ccc/">The statement being dismissed</a> was circulated following Chamisa’s departure from the main opposition party in Zimbabwe. The statement attributed to CCC’s Communications Department read in part:
<blockquote>
Today, 24th January 2024, Advocate Nelson Chamisa issued a statement whose essence was that he had ceased to be the President of the Citizens Coalition for Change party.
Following President Chamisa’s statement, the Party Leadership elected at the Gweru Congress convened an emergency meeting to consider both the contents of President Chamisa’s statement and its immediate implications.
It is important to remember that, President Chamisa was elected unopposed at the Gweru National Congress in May 2019.
His leadership and Presidency of the party have never been in dispute or contestation. Until his today’s statement, he was the undisputed President of the party.
The Party leadership resolved that power and authority will collectively reside in the national leadership elected at the Gweru National Congress.
The Leadership further reaffirmed the authority of National, Provincial, District, Ward and Branch Executive committees elected leading to the May 2019 Gweru Congress.
The Leader of Opposition in Parliament.
The leadership also resolved to lead a process to engage President Chamisa in a deliberate and determined manner in an effort to resolve some issues raised by Advocate Nelson Chamisa in his statement.
The Leadership further resolved that another leadership meeting will be convened as a matter of urgency and further announcements will be made after that meeting.
It is important that all party deployees in various positions of responsibility must continue executing their mandates whilst the leadership seeks ways to resolve the current issues.
The general membership of the party is also called upon to jealously guard and defend the unity and cohesion of the party, and to do all that will enhance the standing of the party.
</blockquote>
Chamisa left the party alleging infiltration by the ruling ZANU PF party following the recall of CCC Members of Parliament and councillors by Sengezo Tshabangu, the party’s disputed interim Secretary General. Chamisa’s departure has created uncertainty within the party, with some elected officials resigning from their positions to follow him. However, others have chosen to remain in office, stating that they are waiting to see Chamisa’s plans and that their constituents still need them. Chamisa, a former ICT minister, is reportedly <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2024/01/29/nelson-chamisa-wont-form-a-new-political-party-after-leaving-ccc/">considering forming a social or political movement</a> without traditional party structures.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

CCC Spokesperson Dismisses Statement On Leadership Change Amidst Chamisa's Resignation

Eric Matinenga, a former Constitutional Affairs Minister, has said that Nelson Chamisa’s decision to leave the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) was rushed. In a statement seen by Pindula News, Matinenga suggested that Chamisa should have consulted key stakeholders and the public before making such a move. He proposed that MPs and Senators write a joint letter to dissociate themselves from the “fictitious” Sengezo Tshabangu-led CCC. He said:
<blockquote>
I am advised, which advice I accept, that Nelson Chamisa was placed in such a suffocating environment that he had to conduct himself in the manner/way he did.
I give him the benefit of the doubt.
I am unable to provide detailed facts which informed that advice.
Am sure there are people who are better able to do so, if they so wish.
In my view however, the decision (for Nelson Chamisa to quit CCC) was a rushed one.
There was need to consult and get the buy in of relevant critical stakeholders. Ideally, the citizenry should have been consulted, a consultation which could not be carried out in the limited suffocating circumstances.
There are certain stakeholders and issues which must be addressed now if they were not addressed at the time the decision to remove oneself from CCC.
Parliament sits on Monday, there is time before Monday for Nelson Chamisa to meet the true CCC members, interrogate issues in a no-holds-barred manner and come to a common way forward.
I am aware that certain MPs have indicated their respective courses of action.
My suggestion is that all MPs and Senators address a joint letter to the Speaker of Parliament and President of the Senate dissociating themselves from the fictitious Sengezo Tshabangu CCC and identifying their leader of the house.
Chamisa must do a supporting letter and dare Tshabangu to recall the MPs.
If recalled, they should not contest the recalls.
There are cases before the courts challenging recalls in one way or the other.
Instructions must be withdrawn so that they are not argued when called. The by-elections on 3 February must be forgotten.
</blockquote>
However, Peter Gift Mutasa, former President of the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions, disagreed with the joint approach, stating that Chamisa had given each member the freedom to choose their stance. Ibbo D Mandaza, an academic, supported Matinenga’s views. Some argued that Chamisa’s decision was influenced by the challenging political environment he faced.
Some CCC Members of Parliament (MPs) have since announced their withdrawal from Parliament and pledged to support Nelson Chamisa who is expected to launch a new political party.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

The Decision For Nelson Chamisa To Quit CCC Was A Rushed One - Eric Matinenga

Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi has said the Government will be guided by the law when distributing the budgeted funds for political parties.
ZANU PF and CCC are the only two political parties that qualify to receive the funds under the Political Parties and Finance Act.
However, a few weeks after the August 2023 general elections, a dispute arose within CCC after Sengenzo Tshabangu, who claims to be the party’s interim secretary general, challenged party leader Nelson Chamisa’s authority, mainly by recalling the party’s elected representatives.
Since the party has no proper structures, there could well be disputes over where the political funding should go.
Tshabangu has since written to Ziyambi, claiming that he was the one entitled to receive the money, while Chamisa has sought to assert his authority on the party.
Parliament, the courts and the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works have all sided with Tshabangu.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/well-be-guided-by-law-on-political-parties-funds/">The Herald</a>, Ziyambi said the Government will be guided by what the law provides in terms of the distribution of the money. He said:
<blockquote>
The political parties in Parliament are identifiable. We have ZANU PF and CCC, so in that process, we will gazette how much has been allocated and what each party is entitled to.
We will then ask authorised representatives of the said parties to submit names and account numbers where the money will be deposited.
We will not release money if there are disputes but will allow them to fix their issues.
If it means they go to court we will comply with whatever the court would have ruled.
</blockquote>
The money under the Political Parties and Finance Act is disbursed based on the percentage of votes the two parties received in the August 2023 harmonised elections.
For a political party to qualify, it should have garnered at least five per cent of the vote in a general election. Only ZANU PF and CCC reached the required threshold.
The Government promulgated the Political Parties Finance Act to bar political parties from receiving funding from foreign governments and organisations.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Will Be Guided By Law On Political Parties Funds - Ziyambi

Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) lawmaker <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Chalton_Hwende">Chalton Hwende</a> has challenged the opposition party to ditch the legal route and instead, devise a political strategy to save the party from disintegration.
Last week, the CCC led by Nelson Chamisa lost another court battle to disputed interim secretary general Sengezo Tshabangu after his High Court application seeking an order to bar Members of Parliament he recalled from contesting in the 03 February by-election was granted.
The High Court ruled that Gift Siziba, Amos Chibaya and other candidates cannot stand as CCC candidates in the upcoming by-elections.
Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Hwende called on his colleagues in CCC to devise a political strategy to save the party from imploding. He wrote:
<blockquote>
The Judgement barring our 23 Candidates from participating in the upcoming by-election is wrong and very unfortunate. Democracy and the rule of law are under attack. This is the time we need a political solution. Let’s ditch the courts and go political to save the people’s movement. Our leader is Nelson Chamisa and the party which you voted for is the only authentic people’s movement, united we can win Zimbabwe for change. Let’s save democracy, let’s save Zimbabwe!
</blockquote>
CCC spokesperson, Promise Mkwananzi said the recalled MPs are being punished for supporting Chamisa. He wrote on X:
<blockquote>
Their (Siziba and Chibaya) crime: loyalty to Chamisa and faithfulness to the struggle. Other than Chamisa himself, they worked the hardest, traversing every corner of the country and introducing the new party: the Citizens Coalition For Change to the masses of the people of Zimbabwe from the new party name, the new slogan, the new structure to the new strategy and many more.
Explaining why we had to form a new party and convincing the sceptics that it was the best way to go.
Even in the face of illegal recalls they stood firm and chose to go with what is right no matter the consequences and the price at a personal level.
These are the calibre of people’s representatives that this country needs. We salute and commend them. We shall continue to fight for the people’s voice to be respected in Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
CCC is now in a precarious position after Parliament, the courts and the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works allowed Tshabangu to recall the party’s MPs and councillors with reckless abandon.
As a result, ZANU PF claimed more seats in the 09 December by-elections and is now on the verge of attaining a two-thirds parliamentary majority.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Hwende Says Legal Route Will Not Save CCC

President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s spokesperson, George Charamba, has said the State should take over the municipal administration of Harare following the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) dominated council’s failure to perform its duties.
The Harare City Council is struggling to collect garbage and to provide clean water to residents, amid a cholera outbreak in the city which has killed scores.
As a result, the central government had to step in and collect garbage, clean city environments, and drill boreholes to provide supplementary water to residents.
Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Charamba said infighting within CCC has paralysed the local authority, therefore, the State should step in. Said Charamba:
<blockquote>
With the paralysis which CCC infighting has wrought on the City of Harare, and given the raging cholera pandemic, it is about time (the) Local Government Minister approached His Excellency the President with the proposal to use Presidential Powers to bring Harare Municipality under direct State administration.
There is a good case now using the public health argument. The State is doing much of the work anyway!
</blockquote>
CCC’s disputed interim secretary general Sengezo Tshabangu has recalled Harare city mayor Ian Makone, his successor Lovejoy Chitengu, and several other councillors, claiming that they have ceased to be members of the party.
Reports indicate that Jacob Mafume, who took over from Chitengu, was recalled by CCC leader Nelson Chamisa.
Tshabangu is, however, resisting Mafume’s recall, and the matter awaits determination by either the courts or the central government.
In previous cases, the court and the central government have consistently sided with Tshabangu.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Charamba Calls For State Takeover Of Harare Municipal Administration

ZANU PF political commissar, Mike Bimha, has urged people to vote in large numbers for the ruling party in the upcoming February 3 by-elections. He called on party members to support their candidate, Edgar Ncube, in the Mkoba North constituency, the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/cde-bimha-appeals-for-zanu-pf-vote-in-by-elections/">Chronicle</a> reported. Bimha expressed concern about the low voter turnout in previous by-elections and emphasised the need to change this trend.
Addressing a Press conference after meeting the party’s Midlands provincial team that is campaigning for Edgar Ncube, Bimha said:
<blockquote>
We would like to appeal to our party members to come in their numbers on February 3 and vote for the party and our candidate for Mkoba North Cde Ncube.
We want to change this hence we are calling on all our registered voters in Mkoba North to all come and vote for Cde Ncube so that he wins resoundingly. I would like to appeal to our Women’s League, Youth League and War Veterans to continue to give support to our provincial teams.
</blockquote>
The party has been actively preparing for the campaigns since the announcement of the by-election date. Bimha called on provincial structures across the country to play their part in mobilising support. He expressed the party’s commitment to strengthening its position with each election, noting that their improved performance in the previous elections was a sign that ZANU-PF is delivering on its promises. The party has in the past been accused of failing to deliver electoral promises.

<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2024/01/19/high-court-orders-removal-of-recalled-ccc-mps-from-february-by-elections-ballot-papers/">High Court Orders Removal Of Recalled CCC MPs From February By-elections Ballot Papers</a></li>
</ul>
The by-elections are taking place in six constituencies -Pelandaba-Tshabalala in Bulawayo, Mkoba North in the Midlands, Chegutu West and Zvimba East in Mashonaland West and Seke and Goromonzi South in Mashonaland East. The by-elections are being held to fill vacant posts left by the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) officials who were recalled by Sengezo Tshabangu, the party’s disputed interim Secretary-General. 
Meanwhile, the High Court ruled yesterday that 23 CCC Members of Parliament who were recalled last year are not eligible to contest in the by-elections representing the CCC. If they do not take further legal action, they won’t be on the ballot paper for the February 3, 2024 by-elections. 
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

ZANU-PF Urges Massive Voter Turnout In By-Elections, Expresses Commitment To Deliver Promises

The main opposition party in Zimbabwe, the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), has stated that it is taking decisive action to address a dispute over the party name. The party, led by Nelson Chamisa, has faced internal divisions, especially after the 2023 elections.
A dispute arose when Sengezo Tshabangu, the disputed interim Secretary General of CCC, started recalling party members from Parliament and councils, claiming they no longer belonged to the party. Some party officials, including Chamisa, have called Tshabangu an imposter, but they have yet to provide evidence to support their claims. This has led to a power struggle within the party, with some aligned with Chamisa accusing Tshabangu and his allies of hijacking the party.
In a statement from the CCC’s official account, the party emphasized that the CCC is more than just a name as it represents an idea cherished by the citizens. The party hinted at decisive and exciting steps ahead. Said the party:
<blockquote>
CCC which is led by President @nelsonchamisa is more than just a name, it’s an idea that resides in the hearts and souls of the citizens. While a name can be abused, an idea cannot. The next steps are decisive and exciting.
</blockquote>
This comes amid speculation that Chamisa may be considering forming a new party called the Democratic Alternative of Zimbabwe (DAZ). This speculation was fueled by a post from CCC deputy spokesperson Gift Ostallos Siziba, which mentioned Chamisa leading the Democratic Alternative in Zimbabwe. Siziba said:
<blockquote>
The leader of the Democratic Alternative in Zimbabwe is Advo Nelson Chamisa.
</blockquote>
Chamisa’s own social media messages have further fueled rumours, with suggestive statements about the future. One of his recent social media posts read:
<blockquote>
THE FUTURE IS IN OUR HANDWRITING.. We choose to paint the whole country with the universal colour of love. The next steps are decisive and exciting… Can’t you hear the sound of freedom??
</blockquote>
However, there is no official confirmation of a new party formation. Some believe Siziba’s post was intended to gauge public reaction and possibly confuse the ruling ZANU PF party. In the past, ZANU PF allegedly created parties with similar abbreviations to confuse CCC members during elections. These parties did not actively participate in politics. Analysts speculate that they were tactics employed to sow confusion among voters.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Zimbabwe's Opposition CCC Takes "Decisive" Action Amid Name Dispute And New Party Speculation

High Court Justice Pisirayi Kwenda has given an order to remove the names of 23 opposition CCC Members of Parliament (MPs), including Amos Chibaya and Gift Ostallos Siziba, from the ballot papers for the upcoming by-elections set for 3 February. The judge ruled that these MPs are no longer CCC members and should not be allowed to run as candidates. He also expressed his displeasure with CCC lawyers for disregarding the court’s judgement.
The court heard arguments from both sides on 18 January 2024, and the judge reserved his judgment which he delivered on 19 January in the afternoon. The MPs in question were among several MPs and councillors who were recalled by Sengezo Tshabangu, the disputed CCC interim secretary-general. Tshabangu claimed that these individuals no longer belonged to the party.
The case arose when the recalled MPs filed to run in the by-elections under the CCC’s name. Tshabangu then took the matter to court, challenging the acceptance of their candidacy. His lawyer argued that there was a precedent of recalled members being disqualified from running in by-elections under the party that had recalled them.
After the ruling, CCC lawyer Obey Shava stated that he would consult with his client for further instructions. He noted that whether the recalled individuals will appear on the ballot for the February by-elections will depend on the legal actions taken by his client.
Journalist Mduduzi Mathuthu commented saying Nelson Chamisa should have either fielded candidates under a different party or supported ZAPU. He suggested that CCC’s decision to run independently allowed ZANU PF to gain ground in the elections. He said:
<blockquote>
Political parties are not in the habit of doing favours for other parties, but on reflection, CCC – with this predictable scenario – should have either fielded candidates under a different banner, or backed ZAPU. ZAPU retreated when CCC fielded. Now Zanu PF makes inroads in Byo.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) announced that preparations for the by-elections are well underway, with training for Constituency Elections Officers currently taking place in Darwendale.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

High Court Orders Removal Of Recalled CCC MPs From February By-elections Ballot Papers

The ruling ZANU PF party and the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) have joined a legal dispute in which CCC lawmakers, who were recalled by Sengezo Tshabangu are challenging their recall. They argue that Tshabangu, the disputed interim secretary general of the CCC, is not a legitimate authority and therefore had no right to recall them.
This legal battle has been ongoing since last year, and the first group of recalled opposition legislators’ attempts to be reinstated have not been successful. In a recent development, a member of ZANU PF, the ruling party, filed an application at the High Court to prevent a recalled CCC lawmaker named Amos Chibaya from participating in the upcoming by-elections scheduled for February 3.
Tshabangu also filed an urgent application at the High Court to bar 23 candidates he recalled in November from using the CCC party’s name in the upcoming by-elections. Tshabangu insists that the recalled lawmakers should not be allowed to contest under the CCC banner.
The matters will be heard by High Court Judge Justice Pisirayi Kwenda on Thursday. The hearing was initially scheduled for Wednesday but was postponed after the CCC, led by Nelson Chamisa, requested to be joined in the proceedings. It was agreed that both applications should be heard simultaneously since they involve similar issues.
The lawyers representing the recalled lawmakers stated that they were not able to proceed with the argument due to the existence of another separate case involving Amos Chibaya and others that dealt with the same issues. The parties involved have been given time to file all necessary documents and prepare their arguments before the hearing on Thursday. Obey Shava representing the recalled lawyers told the media:
<blockquote>
We had returned to court for argument in a matter in which Mr Tshabangu is seeking to have members of Parliament and Council, who were participating on a CCC ticket barred from contesting.
 Unfortunately the matter could not proceed because apparently there is a similar matter involving Amos Chibaya and others which was before a separate judge which was dealing with the same issues which we are dealing with.
So the decision was made that the matters be heard simultaneously. In the meanwhile, the parties have been given some time to file all their outstanding papers and prepare their arguments in advance.
</blockquote>
Tshabangu’s lawyer told Pindula News that they had consented to the joinder of “another CCC” and confirmed that the matter would be heard on Thursday at 2:00 PM. Additionally, the High Court is expected to deliver a judgment on the legality of the recalls from Parliament, which will likely impact the determination of the case to be heard on Thursday morning.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

ZANU PF And CCC Join Case In Which Tshabangu Seeks To Block Recalled MPs From By-elections

The President of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nelson_Chamisa/">Nelson Chamisa</a>, has reportedly fired the Mayor of Harare, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Jacob_Mafume/">Jacob Mafume</a>, and six other councillors. They have been expelled from the party because they aligned themselves with disputed party interim Secretary General <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Sengezo_Tshabangu/">Sengezo Tshabangu</a> and caused chaos within the party.
Mafume’s removal comes shortly after he was re-elected as Harare Mayor. There were allegations that he convinced Tshabangu to <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/11/09/tshabangu-strikes-again-recalls-harare-mayor-ian-makone-deputy-7-more-councillors/">recall the previous mayors</a> – Ian Makone, and Lovejoy Chitegu – so that he could regain his position. Mafume reportedly demanded that councillors vote for him, claiming that he had control over their continued stay in office.
It is alleged that Mafume was hurt by Chamisa’s decision not to support <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/12/21/jacob-mafume-bounces-back-as-harare-mayor/">Mafume’s re-election</a>. Mafume had hoped for a second term as mayor after completing the term of former Harare Mayor, Herbert Gomba. An anonymous source told <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/chamisa-fires-harare-mayor-mafume-six-other-councillors-for-scheming-with-tshabangu/">The NewsHawks</a>:
<blockquote>
Mafume has been fired for his role in destabilising the party.
He has been fired alongside six other Councillors from across the country. Expect more of these decisions as the party has been observing and now knows those against its agenda.
</blockquote>
The other six councillors who were allegedly fired are Deputy Mayor Edwin Ndlovu from Bulawayo, Mayor Sophia Gwasira and Deputy Mayor Cloud Nengomasha from Mutare, and two unnamed councillors from Marondera and Harare.
Tshabangu, a former MDC provincial youth chairperson and member of the MDC-N, has been causing turmoil within the CCC by recalling Members of Parliament and councillors. He claims the recalls are necessary to address irregularities and disrespect for party processes. He claims that the recalled individuals ceased to be CCC members and that they had been imposed on the electorate by Nelson Chamisa.
Some believe that CCC’s former deputy president, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Tendai_Biti/">Tendai Biti,</a> has been influencing these expulsions due to his resentment towards Chamisa. Biti reportedly wants to ensure the downfall of the CCC. Mafume has a history of supporting Biti, as he previously joined Biti’s People Democratic Party after a disagreement with the late Morgan Tsvangirai, a prominent figure in the pro-democracy movement. <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/11/11/biti-speaks-on-strategic-ambiguity-recalls-and-failure-to-be-in-parliament/">Biti denied the allegations</a> saying although he differs with Chamisa’s way of doing things, he would never go as far as giving ZANU PF an advantage on any platform.
It remains to be seen whether the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission will recognize these expulsions, as previous letters signed by Chamisa were ignored by Parliament, despite being acknowledged.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Chamisa Has Reportedly Fired Harare Mayor Mafume And 6 Others

<a href="https://wiki.pindula.co.zw/Sengezo_Tshabangu">Sengezo Tshabangu</a> has filed an urgent High Court application seeking to stop the participation of 23 candidates under the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) banner in the upcoming 03 February by-elections.
The 23 CCC candidates successfully filed their nomination papers at the Nomination Court on 18 December 2023.
This was despite the fact that a previous High Court order had barred fellow party members from contesting under the party name on the basis that they had ceased to be party members ahead of the 09 December 2023 by-elections.
In his application, through his legal representative, Nqobani Sithole of Ncube Attorneys, Tshabangu, who claims to be the CCC Interim Secretary General, cited the 23 members and the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) as respondents.
Tshabangu argued that the recalled candidates are no longer CCC members hence should not contest under the party name. Part of the application reads:
<blockquote>
The application is made on the grounds that: On the 18th of December 2023, the Nomination Court sat consequent upon promulgation of the date for by-elections set down on the 3rd of February 2024.
First to twenty-third respondents submitted their nomination papers before the Nomination Court to be accepted as candidates in the by-election as “members” of a political party called Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC party.
This was despite the fact that in a prior and extant judgment, they had been found by this court to have ceased to be members of that party. The Nomination Court accepted the nomination papers.
The decision of the Nomination Court is unlawful in that it is contrary to an extant judgment of the High Court and was at any rate procured through an apparent act of defiance of that judgment.
</blockquote>
The application seeks the court to set aside the Nomination Court’s decision to accept the 23 members’ nomination papers.
Unlike at the sitting of the nomination court for the 09 December by-elections, some recalled CCC members filed their papers as independent candidates for the 03 February by-elections to avoid being disqualified.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Tshabangu Files High Court Application To Bar Recalled CCC Members From 03 February By-elections

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has blocked planned protests by “Concerned Citizens”, who are members of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) led by Nelson Chamisa.
Concerned Citizens had notified the ZRP of their intentions to hold peaceful protests on Tuesday across the country over the recall of CCC legislators and ZANU PF’s victory in the August 2023 elections.
Police said the applications failed to meet the provisions of the Maintenance of Peace and Order (MOPO) Act.
In a letter dated 03 January 2024, Officer Commanding Hurungwe District, Superintendent Kezias Karuru advised the convener of the demonstrations, Mathew Chapfura to comply with the law in his application. He wrote:
<blockquote>
Reference is made to your notification dated December 30, 2023 on the above subject. This office is not able to take action on your notice as it lacks the requisite averments.
The Maintenance of Peace and Order Act is explicit on what constitutes a notice and averments required of the notice. Please comply with the law.
</blockquote>
ZRP spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi told <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200021918/police-block-anti-ed-protests">NewsDay</a> in an interview on Wednesday, 10 January, that the approval of notifications to conduct demonstrations is usually determined by the “existing situation” on the ground and by the security assessment of the regulating authority. Said Asst Comm Nyathi:
<blockquote>
Organisations and entities intending to conduct processions or demonstrations should comply in full with the provisions of The Maintenance of Peace and Order Act Chapter 11:23.
This includes the official appointment of a convener, engagement with local regulating authority and interaction with other stakeholders among other requirements which include the safety and security of the community especially other people not involved in the procession or gathering.
In this regard, the Zimbabwe Republic Police implores organisations and their entities to fully familiarise themselves with the provisions of the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act Chapter 11:23 and to notify the regulatory authority about their gathering.
The approval of notifications will be determined by the existing situation on the ground and by the security assessment of the regulating authority.
</blockquote>
Convener of the planned demonstrations in Hurungwe District, Chapfura told NewsDay that they intended to march peacefully in protest over the recalls and the “sham” 23 August 2023 elections. He said:
<blockquote>
We intended to march along the streets with placards to register our disgruntlement over the unlawful recalls of elected legislators from Parliament.
We are in protest of the by-elections. They are illegal. If we are to have an election we have to start afresh under free and fair conditions. We wanted to protest against Mr Mnangagwa’s victory because the election was a sham.
We wanted it to be a peaceful protest in full compliance with the law, that is, with the presence of the security officers, and marshals among other things.
</blockquote>
Dozens of CCC legislators and councillors were recalled by Sengezo Tshabangu, a controversial party activist who claims to be CCC’s interim secretary general.
Tshabangu initiated the recalls on the pretext that the elected officials were imposed on the electorate and had subsequently ceased to be CCC members.
Meanwhile, the ZRP has reportedly blocked more than 100 of the opposition party’s planned gatherings for allegedly failing to comply with the MOPO Act.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>