HARARE – Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), leader, Nelson Chamisa has refuted claims made by party activist Sengezo Tshabangu, alleging misappropriation of funds received from the European Union (EU) during the 2023 harmonized elections.
Tshabangu, who asserts himself as CCC’s interim secretary general, accused the party of failing to account for over US$2 million purportedly received from the EU.
In a recent appearance on CITE’s online program, The Breakfast Club, Tshabangu stated his intention to send a letter to Chamisa, demanding accountability for the alleged funds.
Chamisa, however, took to social media platform X to dismiss the accusations, emphasizing the party’s integrity and asserting that they did not receive any funds from the EU.
“Integrity matters! We received no cent from the EU. And we are proud of the support from the Citizens particularly those in the diaspora. They have to this day, carried the burden to free our country from dictatorship!” Chamisa posted on X.
Tshabangu further revealed that his faction had established a parallel CCC bank account due to concerns about accountability within the party.
He accused some individuals around Chamisa of opening an account without the knowledge of the appointed treasurer, terming it a “pseudo account.”
“The party fears accountability. We know for a fact they received money from the European Union, over US$2 million, which was intended to pay the polling agents, food, and other election-related amenities so that the election costs would be met. But up to date, our polling agents are not yet paid,” Tshabangu claimed.
Despite Chamisa’s denial, Tshabangu is determined to seek accountability and transparency.
“We are putting the house in order. We need to establish who received the money and what it was used for. One of the recipients needs to account for that money,” he asserted.
Tshabangu, who seized control of CCC from Chamisa with the assistance of state institutions such as Parliament and the Courts, has declared his intention to receive State funds for CCC under the Political Parties Finance Act.
This move has sparked controversy as Tshabangu was largely unknown to CCC supporters before his involvement in the recalls of the party’s elected representatives in October.
The internal power struggle within CCC raises concerns about the party’s unity and stability.
