Nelson Chamisa charts new political path after departure from CCC

HARARE – Zimbabwe’s prominent opposition leader, Nelson Chamisa, has declared his intention to remain active in politics, revealing plans to establish a new political entity after his recent departure from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).

In an interview with AFP on Friday, Chamisa, who lost the August election to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, emphasized his commitment to staying in the political arena.

He cited the need for a fresh start after leaving the CCC, a party he co-founded two years ago, which he claims was infiltrated by the ruling Zanu PF party.

“I am definitely not quitting because winners don’t quit. And quitters never win,” Chamisa stated emphatically in Harare.

He explained that leaving the CCC was a strategic move to draw a line and signal the beginning of a new political approach.

“What we are is a new approach, a new way, a fresh start,” he added, refraining from disclosing the name of the new party but comparing it to “building a big church.”

Chamisa’s decision to exit the CCC comes amid allegations of government interference, leading to a hijacking of the party he sought to lead.

The move is seen as a response to what he perceives as a need for change and a break with the past.

“A break with the past is also a signal to the commencement of the future. We are saying enough is enough,” Chamisa asserted.

Chamisa picks lessons from CCC

The 45-year-old opposition leader faced Mnangagwa in the 2023 election, which international observers criticized for falling short of democratic standards and escalating political tensions.

While Mnangagwa secured a second term, the ruling Zanu PF party fell a few seats short of the two-thirds majority required to alter the constitution.

The political landscape has been further complicated by the recent recall of opposition lawmakers, a move triggered by an individual proclaiming himself the CCC’s “interim secretary-general.”

This resulted in a series of by-elections favoring Zanu PF.

Chamisa, having experienced similar challenges in the past, acknowledged lessons learned and asserted a commitment to a different political strategy.

“We’ve learned our ways. We’ve seen that we’re dealing with a toxic and dangerous ruling party,” Chamisa stated, emphasizing a determination not to repeat past mistakes.

As Zimbabwe’s political scene undergoes shifts and realignments, the formation of Chamisa’s new political entity adds an intriguing chapter to the nation’s political narrative.