Munacho Gwamanda- Self-proclaimed CCC interim secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu has intensified efforts to solidify his faction’s position within the fractured opposition party by announcing plans for an elective congress.

His ally, Mbuso Siso, confirmed that legal disputes with acting CCC leader Welshman Ncube had delayed progress but emphasised that groundwork was well underway.
“We are mobilising across the country, with the latest meeting held in Masvingo over the weekend,” Siso said. “We aim to test our grassroots support and bring in fresh leadership. Congress dates will be finalised once the legal challenges are resolved.”
Siso took a swipe at Ncube’s leadership, claiming it lacked popular support. “The MDC was founded in Matabeleland, and we cannot fail to produce a capable leader from the region. Welshman Ncube is clinging to 2019 structures invalidated by the court, while our CCC faction, established in 2022, operates as a separate entity,” he argued.

The faction is pushing for a Global Political Agreement (GPA), similar to the arrangement that led to Zimbabwe’s Government of National Unity in 2009, to address electoral reforms and political differences before the next elections.

“We need a GPA to ensure fair elections and resolve key political disagreements,” Siso said.
Faction spokesperson Nqobizitha Mlilo added that restructuring efforts were already in motion to address weaknesses within the opposition. “Restructuring is ongoing, and it’s too early to speculate about leadership contests. Our immediate focus is on preparing for the congress,” Mlilo stated.

Tshabangu’s factional moves come against the backdrop of his controversial ties to Zanu PF, which critics argue have undermined the opposition’s credibility.

Known for his cordial relations with Zanu PF officials, Tshabangu has been accused of acting as a destabilising force within the CCC to weaken the opposition’s electoral chances.

Analysts say Tshabangu’s faction benefits from Zanu PF’s tacit support, evident in the state media’s favorable coverage of his activities.

This alliance has sparked accusations of betrayal within the opposition, with some members viewing Tshabangu’s actions as part of a broader strategy to fragment the CCC and tilt the political balance in Zanu PF’s favour.