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The opposition Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) has reportedly been kicked out of a rented property in Belvedere, Harare, after failing to pay rentals.
A few years ago, the Nelson Chamisa-led party lost control of its headquarters, the Morgan Richard Tsvangirai House, in central Harare to the MDC-T which was backed by the State.
Mercy Dunatuna Muvhundusi (MDM) Attorneys, who are representing the unnamed clients, have ordered CCC to vacate the Belvedere premises over the non-payment of rentals, according to a letter seen by <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/chamisa-kicked-out/">The Herald</a>. Reads the letter in part:
<blockquote>
We represent the property owners of Number 10 Beal Road, Belvedere, Harare. We are advised by our clients that sometime in May 2023 you entered into a verbal agreement in terms of which you were to lease the main house excluding the main bedroom. The rentals for the property were pegged in the sum of US$1 000,00 per month.
Our clients further advise that for the months of July and August 2023, you paid rentals in the sum of US$800,00 instead of the agreed amount of US$1 000,00.
</blockquote>
CCC also took occupation of a cottage at the same property adding to its bills which it could not settle. Reads the letter:
<blockquote>
We are further advised that in September 2023, you took occupation of one of the cottages at the house. The rentals for the cottage and security deposit were in the amount of US$900,00.
Despite that you have taken occupation of the cottage, you have failed or neglected to pay the rentals and the security deposit.
You thus owe our clients rental arrears in the total sum of US$1 300,00. As such you are in breach of the lease agreement.
As a result of the breach, our clients have decided to cancel the lease agreement with immediate effect.
This letter thus serves as notification of cancellation of the lease agreement between yourselves and our client.
</blockquote>
The lawyers said since CCC had breached the lease agreement, the property owners were no longer required to give the opposition party notice to vacate. They wrote:
<blockquote>
In light of the fact that you are in breach of the lease agreement, there is no requirement on our part to give you notice to vacate.
You are therefore required to vacate our client’s premises forthwith failing which we shall institute legal proceedings against you for your eviction and holding over damages, and the costs of such proceedings at a legal practitioner and client scale shall be to your account. Be guided accordingly.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

CCC Expelled From Offices Over Rental Arrears | Report

Zimbabwe’s main opposition party the Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) on Tuesday demanded a fresh election after it rejected the result of the 23 August vote and called it a sham.
CCC deputy spokesperson Gift Siziba told a news conference in Harare that the African Union and SADC should facilitate a return to legitimacy in Zimbabwe. Said Siziba:
<blockquote>
The position of the CCC is very clear. We reject in toto the results of the elections held on 23 August because the electoral process was flawed and fraught with illegalities.
As a way forward we are demanding fresh elections that are free, fair and credible.
</blockquote>
President Emmerson Mnangagwa of the ruling ZANU PF party won a second term after he polled 52.6% of the vote, and CCC candidate Nelson Chamisa scored 44%.
Election Observer reports from SADC, the Carter Centre and EU all agreed that the electoral field was uneven and the conditions were not conducive for a free election.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CCC Demands Fresh Elections

The Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) has denied allegations by the opposition CCC party that its coverage of the 2023 general elections is biased.
On Tuesday, 25 July, CCC spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere issued a statement saying that “it is a matter of public record that ZBC refuses to give any independent or fair coverage to the CCC” leader Nelson Chamisa.
In response, ZBC said that everything it has done is within the confines of the Constitution of Zimbabwe. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
ZBC Election Coverage
The Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation notes with concern a statement released by the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) spokesperson Ms Fadzai Mahere.
The statement dated 25 July 2023 has serious allegations to the effect that the ZBC in particular has failed to comply with the law in the coverage of the 2023 General election.
The ZBC is alive to the fact that it is a National Broadcaster and its elections coverage is guided by the laws of the land in this case, The Electoral Act (Chapter 2:13) and the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment number 20 of 2013 of particular note Section 61.
The ZBC appreciates that according to the Electoral Act, the election season runs from the day of the Proclamation of the election dates until the day of the inauguration of the winner of the Presidential election.
In this case, our election season began on Wednesday the 31st of May 2023 and will end on the day of the inauguration of the Presidential winner.
Guided by the Electoral Act that requires the National Broadcaster to ‘equitably’ distribute free airtime to contesting political parties, on Proclamation Day, the ZBC had a news story aired on the Main News (8 pm television) and other bulletins including all the six radio stations under the ZBC stable namely, Radio Zimbabwe, National FM, Power FM, Classic 263, Khulumani FM and Central Radio.
The story featured the three main political parties at that stage namely CCC, MDC A and ZANU PF. From the CCC it was Fadzai Mahere who spoke on behalf of her party. (ZBC Main News bulletins are a matter of public record and can be viewed on ZBC News Online stream on Facebook as the bulletins are streamed).
On the day of the nomination Court i.e. Wednesday the 21st of June, ZBC News covered and aired a story that featured CCC President Mr. Nelson Chamisa commenting about the nomination process.
The following day 22 June, again Mr. Chamisa was on the news commenting about double candidates.
ZBC News that their party has made a decision not to speak with the ZBC. This statement has however not stopped the ZBC from seeking interviews from other CCC candidates.
The ZBC as a National Broadcaster respects journalistic ethics such as fairness, accuracy, balance, objectivity and confidentiality of sources but also respects the rights of individuals not to speak to the media.
Editorial independence
It is also important to note that the ZBC is independent ad has a competent editorial team that understands what to publish and how to publish it.
Even an election season doesn’t take away this editorial independence that is provided for by the Constitution of Zimbabwe Section 61 (4) ‘All state-owned media of communication are:
(a) free to determine the editorial content of their broadcasts or other communications’ The Supreme law of the land thus gives the ZBC editorial independence to decide what and how to publish though. Section 61 (5) of the Constitution also gives ZBC the basis of its editorial policy.
Commercial Content
According to the law, ZBC is mandated with offering political parties a discount of 30 percent during prime time.
Other political parties have submitted their advertisements and to date, the National Broadcaster is yet to receive any such from the CCC.
No right is absolute
All content including the commercial content is subject to editorial scrutiny as provided by the law in section 61 of the constitution of Zimbabwe.
61(5) ‘Freedom of expression and freedom of the media excludes-
(a) Incitement to violence
(b) Advocacy of hatred or hate speech
(c) Malicious injury to a person’s reputation or dignity
(d) Malicious unwarranted breach of a person’s right to privacy
As the Constitution provides, we therefore urge political players not to use hate speech, misinformation among others as this cannot be broadcast on ZBC platforms.
While it is understood that elections are an emotive subject and that the campaign is hot and might cause frustrations, it is however unfair to vent these frustrations on the ZBC.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZBC Denies CCC Allegations Of Bias | Full Statement

Ndavaningi Mangwana, the permanent secretary for the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, has responded to a statement issued by CCC on Tuesday, 25 July alleging State media bias in covering political events.
Mahere said that “it is a matter of public record that ZBC refuses to give any independent or fair coverage to the CCC” leader Nelson Chamisa.
She was responding to claims by the Deputy Information Minister, Kindness Paradza, that the opposition is “refusing to take up airtime on ZBC.”
Posting on Twitter, Mangwana said the Government has directed ZBC formally respond to the CCC public statement so that issue is resolved amicably. Said Mangwana:
<blockquote>
The Public Broadcaster is independent of Govt and has its own board, management and editorial team as well as policy.
We support them with policy directions, resource advocacy, and parliamentary accountability. We have since asked them to formally respond to the CCC public statement so as to correct any misunderstandings which may have arisen between the parties.
The ZBC have assured us that they will issue a statement in the spirit of public institution accountability. 
The position of Govt is that;
-the Public Broadcaster is there to serve all. This includes all political parties, all natural or juristic persons.
From our preliminary inquiry, we have been made to understand that, there are challenges with bringing CCC people on air as they either don’t want to come to programs or they have internal contradictions which give them a challenge in deciding who should moderate or appear on a program and how the program should be structured.
This sometimes leads to indecisions on who should attend a program on their behalf and the embargoing of others from attending.
The Public Broadcaster tries to avoid getting involved in these internal contradictions which sometimes lead to the party not being represented at all in spite of ZBC’s efforts at having equitable representation of all players.
When it comes to the airing of CCC adverts, the ZBC reports that CCC leadership has an “unrealistic” expectation that ZBC should do the commercial productions for them.
This is a misunderstanding of the public broadcaster’s role. The CCC party needs to have its own creatives to do its productions just like Zanu PF.
The ZBC is a broadcaster and not an advertising agency and would appreciate completed productions and of course commensurate payment for the purchased airtime.
May we take this opportunity to point out that Zanu PF pays for all the rallies that are aired live on television.
Govt itself pays for the National Heroes Galas that also benefit from live broadcasts.
We call upon everyone to support our National institutions in their commercial efforts to avoid turning into fiscal burdens to the taxpayer.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Orders ZBC To Respond To CCC Allegations Of Bias

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has finally responded to a letter from the Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) over the issue of double candidates.
CCC says forty-one (41) individuals fraudulently filed nomination papers as members of the party.
20 of the “fraudsters” filed nomination papers for National Assembly seats while the other 21 individuals filed for local authority seats.
On 22 June, CCC wrote a letter to ZEC and demanded a response within 2 hrs of receipt of the letter, <a href="https://twitter.com/adv_fulcrum/status/1675009804090109952?s=20">according to lawyer Thabani Mpofu</a>.
However, ZEC only responded 8 days later, on 30 June, after it had already gazetted the challenged names.
In the letter, signed by one E. Mamvura on behalf of ZEC Chief Elections Officer Utoile Silaigwana, the elections management body said it cannot interfere with the decision of the Nomination Court. Reads the letter:
<blockquote>
RE: INVALID CANDIDATE NOMINATIONS FOR THE 2023 HARMONISED ELECTIONS
We refer to the above matter and acknowledge receipt of your letter dated 22 June 2023.
Please note that we cannot interfere with the decision of the Nomination Court. After the sitting of the Nomination Court, a nomination officer becomes functus officio.
We also understand that there is a pending case on the issue raised in your letter. Kindly continue to seek legal redress on the matter.
Candidates have a right to appeal against decisions of nomination officers in terms of the Electoral Act (Chapter 2:13].
</blockquote>
In a statement on 26 June, CCC national spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere said the party had filed criminal charges against the fraudsters and also appealed to the Electoral Court.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Blow For CCC As ZEC Gazettes Double Candidates

The Nelson Chamisa-led Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has said forty-one (41) individuals fraudulently filed nomination papers as members of the party.
20 of the “fraudsters” filed nomination papers for National Assembly seats while the other 21 individuals filed for local authority seats.
In a statement on Monday, CCC national spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere said the party has filed criminal charges and also appealed to the Electoral Court. <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula</a> is publishing Mahere’s statement below:
<blockquote>
FRAUDULENT DOUBLE CANDIDATES
Pursuant to our press briefing on 22 June 2023, we filed objections against double candidates in terms of the procedure provided for under the Electoral Act. We have received no response from ZEC.
Consequently, we have noted an electoral appeal to the Electoral Court under EC3/2023 against the decision of the Nomination Court to accept the nomination forms of fraudulent double candidates whose forms carried forged signatures.
In addition, we have filed criminal complaints against all of the fraudulent candidates under RRB No. 5585161, ZRP Kopje.
For the avoidance of doubt, the following candidates are not candidates for the CCC:
NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
Harare Province
1. Sunningdale – Christmas Goremusandu
2. Mount Pleasant – Jonathan Machokoto
3. St Marys – Freddy Michael Musarirevu
4. Warren Park – Energy Tanaka Matika
5. Harare South – George Magweta; Hasha Trouble
6. Hatcliffe – Lloyd Sande
7. Hatfield – Admire Adam Griza
8. Hunyani – Terrence Khumbula
9. Epworth South – Solomon Baramasimbe; Didymus Bande
10. Harare Central – Irvine Hatitye Nyaningwe
11. Harare East – Malvin Razaru
12. Harare West – Farai Michael Padzarondora
13. Chitungwiza North – Enock Nyashadzashe Chitoro
14. Chitungwiza South – Shepard Kariramombe
15. Churu – Tichaona Nyikadzino
Bulawayo Province
16. Pelandaba- Tshabalala – Soneni Moyo
17. Entumbabe – Njube – Dingilizwe Tshuma
18. Pumula – Albert Mhlanga
Mashonaland East Province
19. Marondera Central – Misheck Manyere
Mashonaland West
20. Kariba – Andrew Mutsau
LOCAL AUTHORITIES
Bulawayo Municipality 
Ward 1 – Mbuso Siso
Ward 6 – Fikezweni Nyoni
Ward 12 – Siboniso Moyo
Ward 13 – Methuseli Bhebhe
Ward 15 – Ashton Mhlanga
Ward 18 – Mildred Ncube
Ward 22 – Mkhaliphi Sibanda
Ward 24 – Phumulani Sibanda
Ward 28 – Vusumuzi Chirwa
Marondera Municipality 
Ward 3 – Derick Mugumbate
Ward 7 – Godfery Basvi
Ward 10 – Jimmy Jalifu
Harare Municipality 
Ward 21 – Alexio Nyakudya
Ward 18 – Ncube Mildred
Ward 22 – Mkhaliphi Sibanda
Nkayi RDC
Ward 14 – Busani Sithole
Ward 16 – Mandlenkosi Tshuma
Ward 20 – Cephas Ncube
Ward 23 – Lovemore Banda
Ward 25 – Sambulo Maphosa
Ward 28 – One Ncube
Should the fraudulent candidates withdraw their candidature within 24 hours, the CCC will not persist with both the civil and criminal proceedings against them.
</blockquote>

CCC Sues 41 "Fraudulent" Candidates

A 42-year-old woman from Mpofu village in Lupane, Matabeleland North Province, has her membership in an irrigation scheme terminated because her husband is a member of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).
Writing for CITE, <a href="https://cite.org.zw/woman-kicked-out-of-irrigation-scheme-over-ccc-links/">Senzeni Ncube</a> reported that Patricia Moyo was kicked out of the Bubi-Lupane irrigation scheme after her husband, Thulani Mlotshwa successfully filed his nomination papers to represent CCC in Ward 18 as a councillor in the upcoming elections.
The irrigation’s chairperson Gerald Khumalo wrote a letter to Moyo notifying her of the decision. Part of the letter reads:
<blockquote>
As a committee of the irrigation scheme, we have been given a directive by ZANU PF which is the President’s Office to inform you that you are no longer part of the scheme with effect from 22 June 2023 and you won’t receive any benefits.
</blockquote>
Khumalo advised Moyo to get in touch with the ruling party and the President’s office if she has any objections.
Moyo told CITE that she has been a member of the irrigation scheme for the past three years which enabled her to feed her family. She said:
<blockquote>
They wrote me a letter on the 22nd of June and was called on the 23rd of June and told me that I am no longer a member of the irrigation scheme, the reason was not stated but they had previously quizzed me about how I am part of the irrigation when my husband is contesting for CCC.
I told them that I am not part of the politics and when I joined the irrigation scheme, they said it was for all Mpofu villagers and most people who joined are women, men are just a few, and that is how I responded to them.
</blockquote>
Mlotshwa said it is shocking that the issue has been politicised, adding that those who are in charge said she will not be paid for the sunflower she sold to the Grain Marketing Board (GMB).
CITE reported that they contacted Khumalo who responded by saying he was only a messenger and could not comment further on the matter.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Woman Expelled From Irrigation Scheme Over CCC Links

The Nelson Chamisa-led CCC managed to convince one of its two aspiring candidates who filed nomination papers for Masvingo West’s Ward 2 which falls under Masvingo City Council, to withdraw their papers, reported <a href="https://tellzim.com/ccc-swiftly-solves-ward-2-double-candidate-impasse/">TellZim News</a>.
CCC successfully negotiated for Frank Chirairo’s withdrawal and pave the way for Shantiel Chiwara.
Speaking at a press conference held on Friday just outside Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) offices in Masvingo, Chirairo said:
<blockquote>
I can confirm that on June 21 I filed my nomination papers that had been brought to me by the party officials and I then discovered that Ward 2 Masvingo West constituency had also another candidate who had filed nomination papers.
Investigations were made within the party and the party officials communicated with other members, resolved and ensured that the party has only one candidate that will remain on the ballot paper on the election day.
I am confirming that this morning here at ZEC Masvingo I filed the withdrawal of my nomination papers that I filed at the nomination court and I’m also confirming that Chitando has filed a withdrawal of charges against me at the police.
Whatever was happening in the Party I assure everyone that it has been resolved there was no forgery it was simply poor communication.
</blockquote>
Chitando, who was the party signatory also confirmed that he had filed a fraud case when he found out that Chirairo had filed for Ward 2 without his signature or his core signatory. He said:
<blockquote>
I was one of the Party designated signatories to the 2023 local government candidate party list.
I confirm that when I discovered that there are two candidates recorded for Ward 2, this worried me and I then rushed to the police.
Then after inspection of the papers, I discovered that it was not my signature or Mai Chakabuda’ (The Core signatory)’s signature.
We filed a fraud case against Chirairo. However, we have amicably solved this issue.
So we say to the people of Ward 2 and our colleague Chirairo, let’s put the people of Zimbabwe first.
</blockquote>
CCC, however, still has a problem in Ward 2 because Rocky Kamuzonda, who was vying for the same Ward, went on to contest as an independent in protest over Chiwara’s candidature.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CCC Breaks Double Candidate Impasse In Masvingo

Two Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) supporters were last week acquitted on charges of tearing political campaign posters belonging to a ZANU PF candidate in Manicaland.
<a href="https://thestandard.newsday.co.zw/news/article/200012966/charges-against-ccc-activists-thrown-out">The Standard</a> reported that the duo, Zephenia Nyangani and Learnmore Makuwaza who reside in Mboto village in Mutasa District, were arrested on 10 December 2022.
They were charged with the destruction of political posters as defined in section 152(1) of the Electoral Act.
Nyangani and Makuwaza’s trial commenced on 20 May 2023 at Mutasa Magistrates Court.
Prosecutors alleged that the duo defaced posters belonging to ZANU PF local government candidate, Regina Barara, ahead of a pending by-election.
Nyangani and Makuwaza were accused of tearing the posters when they were pasting and affixing posters of their CCC political party candidate in Ward 6.
Their lawyer, David Tandiri of the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) applied for their discharge on the grounds that prosecutors failed to prove a prima facie case against the two CCC supporters.
He also argued that state witnesses, who testified during the trial gave contradictory and inconsistent testimonies.
Magistrate Artwell Sanyatwe agreed with Tandiri’s arguments and ruled that one of the state witnesses had exonerated Nyangani and Makuwaza in the commission of the alleged offence.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CCC Supporters Accused Of Destroying ZANU PF Posters Acquitted

Zimbabwe’s main opposition party, the Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) is yet to come up with its final list of candidates who will contest this year’s parliamentary and local government elections just over two months before the polls.
CCC abandoned primary elections and adopted a citizens-centred selection process whereby candidates are selected based on their ability to represent the interests of the people.
The process is in five stages namely:
<ol>
<li>Nomination which happened on 5 April 2023</li>
<li>Candidate acceptance confirmation in which nominated candidates were supposed to accept the nomination;</li>
<li>Candidate vetting to weed out suspected secret agents</li>
<li>Announcement of candidates that would have passed the vetting stage</li>
<li>Consensus-building caucuses before the official announcement of victorious candidates</li>
</ol>
The CCC’s candidate nomination process is being conducted by an independent body, the Citizens’ Independent Candidate Selection Panel (CISP).
The Citizen Independent Selection Panel will deal with any complaints that will arise during the candidate selection process.
Speaking during an interview with <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/interview-chamisa-outlines-citizenocratic-candidate-selection-says-nomination-process-kicks-off-this-week/">NewZimbabwe.com</a> in April this year, CCC leader Nelson Chamisa explained the rationale behind the candidate selection process. He said:
<blockquote>
It’s novel and it’s modern and places the citizen at the centre of the process. Citizenocracy is government by the citizens. It’s a citizenocratic selection process.
Citizens want candidates to be selected on merit, integrity, dignity, suitability and accountability. Citizens prefer representatives who are visible, accessible and available.
Those leaders regularly report back to constituencies and communities to get instructions and progress on policies and national priorities of public interest.
All these are going to be considered through a rigorous vetting panel that looks at these critical tests.
In the event that we have more candidates nominated, citizens’ caucuses are convened.
A citizen caucus is constituted of those who have subscribed to citizen philosophy and ideology in the constituency or in a particular ward.
The process also involves wide consultation with stakeholders in that particular constituency or ward.
Your community track record is the qualification to be nominated.
It is your service to the nation and we have criteria for that, we are looking at three attributes of loyalty.
You must pass that. The first is loyalty to the country. The second is loyalty to the people or the constituency.
The third one is loyalty to God, the author of the universe. You can’t lead the people of God when you do not have a relationship with the God of the people.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Explainer: CCC Candidate Selection Process

Several Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) bigwigs in Bulawayo Province aspiring to represent the party in the 23 August elections were reportedly disqualified during the verification process.
The verification process started on Friday and ended on Saturday in Bulawayo.
<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200012519/ccc-bigwigs-fall-in-bulawayo">NewsDay</a> reported sources as saying most of the sitting councillors and some Members of Parliament were disqualified as the opposition party tries to remove suspected secret agents from genuine members.
Some aspiring candidates were reportedly disqualified for vote-buying and bussing supporters. Said a source:
<blockquote>
Besides the 11th-hour disqualification of almost all incumbents, the process proceeded smoothly in all wards except in ward 24, where the caucus didn’t take place on numerous allegations of bussing (in of voters).
</blockquote>
CCC deputy spokesperson Gift Siziba who will represent the party in Pelandaba-Tshabalala said:
<blockquote>
I have just received a report from our security department that some of my good friends have been vetted out because you know this struggle has taken too long, so we are dealing with sell-outs and nincompoops in our midst.
</blockquote>
Siziba made the remarks at the launch of the Deputy Prime Minister in the 2009-13 Government of National Unity, Arthur Mutambara’s book on Friday.
In Bulawayo’s Ward 25, there were alleged attempts to disqualify Alderman Mzamo Dube after he was overwhelmingly nominated. Said a source:
<blockquote>
The process was chaotic because whoever was able to transport people was ahead. The process was also slow, and there was sheer disregard for people’s time.
Vote-buying allegations were flying all over as some candidates were buying people with US$5 notes and alcohol.
</blockquote>
In Cowdray Park, former Deputy Prime Minister Thokozani Khupe will face Finance and Economic Development Minister Mthuli Ncube.
In Nkulumane, CCC will be represented by Desire Moyo, while Tendai Nyathi will represent the opposition party in Lobengula-Magwegwe where Kucaca Phulu is currently the MP.
The other nominees, subject to confirmation by the party are as follows:
<ul>
<li>Pumula – Chelesile Mahlangu</li>
<li>Bulawayo Central – urrender Kapoikulu</li>
<li>Luveve-Emakhandeni – Descent Bajila</li>
<li>Bulawayo North – Minenhle Gumede</li>
<li>Bulawayo South – Engineer Mangwendeza</li>
<li>Mpopoma-Mzilikazi – Desmond Makaza</li>
</ul>
Some CCC insiders claimed that ZANU PF affiliate, Forever Associates Zimbabwe (FAZ) was actively involved in several caucuses where they funded weaker candidates in various areas.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CCC Disqualifies Several Top Officials During Verification Process

The opposition Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) has criticised Speaker of the National Assembly Jacob Mudenda for rejecting a proposal by the Public Accounts and the Budget, Finance, and Economic Development committees to investigate allegations raised in the Gold Mafia documentary which was premiered by Al Jazeera recently.
In a statement, CCC said Mudenda’s decision raises serious doubts about the Government’s commitment to accountability and transparency. CCC said:
<blockquote>
We strongly denounce the decision made by the Speaker of Parliament, Advocate Jacob Mudenda to prevent the parliamentary committees from investigating the overwhelming evidence presented in the #GoldMafia documentary.
The evidence suggests that there is massive corruption, looting, money laundering, and the smuggling of gold by the political elites and their close allies.
The Speaker’s decision to prevent proper investigation raises serious doubts about the regime’s commitment to accountability and transparency.
We demand swift action be taken to investigate the matter to ensure that those involved in such illegal activities are brought to justice.
</blockquote>
Mudenda told the two parliamentary committees that Parliament should allow the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), the central bank and the Police to conduct the investigations.
He said in reaching the decision, he was guided by the South African Government’s decision to task specialised agencies with investigating the gold smuggling and money laundering allegations raised in the Gold Mafia documentary.
“Gold Mafia” is a four-part investigation by Al Jazeera’s Investigative Unit (I-Unit) which exposed gold smuggling gangs in Southern Africa.
The gangs help criminals launder hundreds of millions of dollars, getting rich themselves while plundering their nations.
They use gold to turn dirty cash into clean, seemingly legitimate money for those with large amounts of unaccounted wealth.
The gangs do so by using a complex web of companies, counterfeit identities and fake documents.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Gold Mafia: CCC Chides Mudenda For Refusing To Grant Investigation Authority To Committees

ZANU PF has expressed concern over the Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC)’s activities in Gokwe North, Midlands Province which necessitated the deployment of senior party officials to the district.
Documents obtained by <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/thestandard/news/article/200011541/trouble-brewing-in-ed-backyard">The Standard</a> show that ZANU Midlands provincial commissar Maud Gwenya was set to address members in Gokwe North.
A notice addressed to Wadyajena, the DCC chairperson and senior provincial member, Edson Chiherenge, reads:
<blockquote>
Please be advised that after noting the activities of the opposition party (CCC) in Gokwe North the province saw it fit to deploy the provincial commissar (Maud Gwenya) and her entourage to address meetings in the troubled areas you are to identify.
The provincial commissar will be at your disposal from the afternoon of (Thursday) May 11, 2023, to (Saturday) May 13, 2023.
</blockquote>
Party members are reportedly avoiding meetings called by some party candidates raising fears within ZANU PF circles of a “bhora musango” scenario in the general elections scheduled to be held in August this year.
Former Cabinet minister Flora Buka, who beat sitting Gokwe-Nembudziya legislator Justice Mayor Wadyajena on Friday called for a meeting that was attended by 17 party supporters.
ZANU PF supporters who spoke to The Standard said that most people were snubbing the party because they felt the primary elections were rigged.
Gokwe is considered a ZANU PF bastion as it is largely rural but last year CCC embarked on a nationwide rural mobilisation exercise code-named Mugwazo, in a bid to make inroads in areas considered ZANU PF strongholds.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CCC Activities In Gokwe Worry ZANU PF

Some Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) bigwigs are frantically making a last-minute rush to influence supporters to endorse them in the party’s candidate selection process.
Some of the party bigwigs have been MPs since the year 2000, a year after the opposition MDC was formed.
But now they are being challenged by the party’s “Young Turks” who are challenging the status quo.
According to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200010001/ccc-big-guns-feel-the-heat">NewsDay</a>, the nomination process has seen new faces emerging to battle it out for National Assembly, Senate and local authority seats putting the incumbents on the back foot.
Some sitting legislators have been accused of vote-buying and instigating violence against rivals.
CCC founding leader Nelson Chamisa was unanimously endorsed as the party’s presidential candidate.
Violence in Warren Park disrupted the nomination process where incumbent legislator, Shakespeare Hamauswa’s supporters reportedly clashed with rival groups.
Some of the bigwigs who have reportedly been nominated almost unanimously include Tendai Biti of Harare East constituency, Judith Tobaiwa of Kwekwe Central, and Daniel Molokela of Hwange Central.
Harare West MP Joanah Mamombe is being challenged by Vongai Tome while Munyaradzi Kufahakutizwi is challenging Mabvuku-Tafara sitting MP James Chidhakwa.
Senior CCC member David Coltart was nominated for the Bulawayo Ward 4 local authority seat.
Former MDC-T interim leader Thokozani Khupe is likely to face ZANU PF’s Mthuli Ncube for the Cowdray Park constituency.
CCC spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere was nominated for the Mt Pleasant constituency seat, while Siziba will likely represent the party in the Pelandaba-Tshabalala seat.
Job Sikhala Jnr has been nominated to contest the Zengeza West constituency seat, which is currently occupied by his father, Job Sikhala.
The son of the late MDC founding leader Morgan Richard Tsvangirai, Richard was nominated for the Norton constituency seat.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CCC Bigwigs Face Determined "Young Turks"

The opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) will conclude the candidate nomination process this Monday.
CCC spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere on Monday said the nomination process will be done where it was not completed last Wednesday due to logistical challenges. She said:
<blockquote>
Today (Monday, 10 April), we will complete the nomination process in areas where, due to logistical issues, the process could not be completed last week.
These aren’t “elections” so there are no “reruns.” All nominated candidates will be announced tomorrow and then proceed to the vetting stage.
</blockquote>
Last week Mahere said the process has at least four stages with the nomination being the first stage.
She said the process will also include vetting and the consultation of “key stakeholders” to further scrutinise the list. Said Mahere:
<blockquote>
Following nomination, there is going to be a vetting process and the fact that one has been nominated is not the end of the situation, it doesn’t mean that you are yet eligible to be a candidate.
There will also be a process of community consensus building where citizens will come together and be told there is X, there is Y candidate, who do you prefer and why, they have an opportunity to make their case, deliver a very brief manifesto of what they plan to deliver in their wards or constituency and also to take questions from the community concerning their eligibility to run.
</blockquote>
Mahere was nominated for the Mt Pleasant constituency seat, while deputy CCC spokesperson Gift “Ostallos” Siziba will likely represent the party in the Pelandaba-Tshabalala seat.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CCC Concludes Candidate Nomination Process

The CCC European Union (EU) branch says Zimbabweans based in the EU will be demonstrating against the corruption and looting of natural resources exposed by Al Jazeera on 18 April when the nation commemorates 43 years of independence. The party said in a statement:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwean diasporans in the European Union region will be demonstrating against the corruption and looting of natural resources.
This action is especially against those exposed by the recently aired Gold Mafia documentary on Al Jazeera.
Please join us to call for and make a positive difference for Zimbabwe at demonstrations that will take place on the 18th of April outside the UAE, South African and Zimbabwean embassies in the following countries:
</blockquote>
<ul>
<li>Austria</li>
<li>Bulgaria</li>
<li>Belgium</li>
<li>Croatia</li>
<li>Republic of Cyprus</li>
<li>Czech Republic</li>
<li>Denmark</li>
<li>Estonia</li>
<li>Finland</li>
<li>France</li>
<li>Germany</li>
<li>Greece</li>
<li>Hungary</li>
<li>Ireland</li>
<li>Italy</li>
<li>Latvia</li>
<li>Lithuania</li>
<li>Malta</li>
<li>Poland</li>
<li>Romania</li>
<li>Slovenia</li>
<li>Sweden</li>
<li>Luxembourg</li>
<li>Netherlands</li>
<li>Portugal</li>
<li>Slovakia</li>
<li>Spain</li>
</ul>
“Gold Mafia” is a four-part documentary released by Al Jazeera to expose some Zimbabweans and their accomplices engaged in alleged gold smuggling and money laundering.
Uebert Angel, Henrietta Rushwaya, Ewan Macmillan and Kamlesh Pattni were featured in Episode One of the Gold Mafia documentary.
<a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/3/23/gold-mafia-godmen-conmen-president-niece">According to Al Jazeera</a>, Kamlesh Pattni aka “Brother Paul” was born in Kenya and knows better than anyone how to smuggle gold worth millions of dollars — and get away with it.
He told undercover reporters that he could help them launder more than US$100 million, saying “I don’t know how you came to me, but I think God must have sent you.”
Angel was appointed a special envoy and ambassador-at-large to Europe and the Americas by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in 2021.
He offered to Al Jazeera’s undercover reporters that he could use his diplomatic cover to carry millions of dirty cash into Zimbabwe as part of a laundering operation also involving gold smuggling.
Rushwaya is the person whom Angel and his personal assistant Rikki Doolan get in touch with when they want to discuss buying gold for their laundering scam.
Macmillan aka Mr. Gold was first jailed for gold smuggling in the early 1990s when he was just 21 years old.
The the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) recently froze the assets of  Chidodo, Chirozvi, Dube and Kunaka, for alleged involvement in gold smuggling, money laundering, bribery and other corrupt activities after they were exposed by Al Jazeera.
Chidodo is the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe Head of Security. He appeared in Episode 2 of the documentary explaining how he assists gold smugglers avoid detection at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport.
Chirozvi is the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s Aurex Jewellery Head of Finance.
Kunaka is the General Manager of Fidelity Printers and Refiners. He told the undercover reporters that he received a kickback of US$30 000 a month from the “Gold Mafia”.
Dube, who is associated with Golden Beryl Private Limited, was allegedly being paid US$3 000 per month by the gold smuggling syndicate.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Gold Mafia: CCC Plans Protests Across Europe On 18 April

CCC’s candidates selection process on Wednesday was marred by violence, reports of imposition of candidates and other malpractices, reported <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200009807/violence-mars-ccc-candidates-selection">NewsDay</a>.
For instance, in Beitbridge West, at a number of wards, the nominations were reportedly abandoned altogether due to violence.
In several centres, the selection process reportedly started later than the scheduled time as members and presiding officers were not clear on the procedures.
In Glen Norah, Harare, former Harare mayor Herbert Gomba’s supporters allegedly assaulted another aspirant Womberai Nhende.
Both the Citizens Coalition for Change and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the violence.
CCC deputy spokesperson Gift Siziba told NewsDay that ZANU PF members infiltrated the process. He said:
<blockquote>
We have had some incidents where the proceedings were disrupted by intruders.
The proceedings were open to our members only, but ZANU PF infiltrated the processes.
</blockquote>
ZRP national spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said they were aware of “alleged clashes” but no report had been made to the police. He said:
<blockquote>
We have heard of some disturbances and alleged clashes, but as police, we have not received any official complaint. No one has come forward to report the cases.
</blockquote>
CCC conducted the selection process to choose candidates to stand at the council, parliament, and presidential level in upcoming general elections.
The opposition party decided not to hold primary elections but to allow communities to select suitable party representatives to contest the 2023 elections.
The process was overseen by an Independent Candidate Selection Panel (ICSP).
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CCC Candidates Selection Process Marred By Violence

The opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party led by Nelson Chamisa has launched a WhatsApp ChatBot which it said enables citizens to instantly access information on the party’s activities, voter registration, and any other key information. The party said:
<blockquote>
Our youth task force has launched a WhatsApp ChatBot which enables citizens to instantly access information on the party’s activities, voter registration and any other key information.
Send “REAP” to WhatsApp number +263 712222697 and get chatting!
</blockquote>
REAP or “Mugwazo” is a nationwide rural mobilisation exercise launched by CCC in April 2022.
Speaking about the programme last year, CCC interim secretary for rural mobilisation, Happymore Chidziva, said:
<blockquote>
We have launched a massive recruitment and mobilisation exercise called Mugwazo. We are meeting ordinary citizens in rural areas.
This is a nationwide programme where we are mobilising people to register to vote and recruit them to the CCC party. We are targeting every district in Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CCC Launches A WhatsApp ChatBot

The opposition CCC says it will not be pressured into forming party structures because the formations are “old fashioned”.
CCC was formed in January 2022 but up to now, the Nelson Chamisa Chamisa-led party has no identifiable structures.
ZANU PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa on Thursday told journalists in Harare that CCC has failed to build up support ahead of elections because it does not have structures.
Mutsvangwa also said CCC will split as soon as they hold a congress, just like what happened with the MDC. <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200007092/structures-old-fashioned-ccc">NewsDay</a> quoted Mutsvangwa as saying:
<blockquote>
We (ZANU PF) are going through all the processes to ensure that we are ready for elections. We believe in openness.
Our party is an open field, unlike other parties that complain that they are being constrained by ZANU PF. Surely, we cannot stop them from having a congress.
They are afraid that if they go through that path, they will split again. They have run out of the alphabet splitting; from MDC this, MDC that, now they are going for triple C. Soon they will be going for quad C, decimate C and so on.
</blockquote>
In response, CCC deputy party spokesperson Felix Mafa Sibanda told NewsDay that the party will not take advice from ZANU PF on how to successfully run their affairs. Sibanda said:
<blockquote>
ZANU PF is worried about a non-event. A party is made up of people; a party without membership is useless.
We have members all over the country and the members are the structures. Who needs structures, they are old-fashioned.
We don’t see why ZANU PF should worry about us to say we should have structures. Why are they interested?
We have people throughout the country, we will win without structures, and we have structures that we know ourselves — these are the people, the membership.
</blockquote>
Political analyst Rejoice Ngwenya believes it is imperative for CCC to come up with an administrative and political framework to ensure the effective mobilisation of voters. Ngwenya said:
<blockquote>
The old political order is to have a structure that starts from the lowest administrative element up to the presidential level.
It now depends on the way they want to present their brand. So my humble submission is that as a party, it is difficult to mobilise and organise if you don’t have an identifiable administrative and political entity.
Effective mobilisation is based on identifiable administrative and political entities. So it’s important that they have those.
CCC might not have a structure officially, but I think there is a need for some administrative and political framework for mobilising funds, votes and seeking representation at leadership level.
</blockquote>

Structures Are Old-fashioned, We Don't Need Them - CCC

The opposition Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) has condemned the Electoral Amendment Bill that is currently before Parliament. A statement released by the party reads:
<blockquote>
<h2>ELECTORAL AMENDMENT BILL UNCONSTITUTIONAL, INADEQUATE &amp; ANTI-REFORM</h2>
Introduction
The proposed Electoral Amendment Bill that is currently before Parliament is unconstitutional, grossly inadequate and anti-reform.
It fails to align Zimbabwe’s Electoral Law to the Constitution, it does not take into account the recommendations of the 2018 Election Observer Missions on electoral reforms and it is not compliant with regional and international electoral treaties, guidelines and standards as will be shown in detail below.
A. No public consultation
The draft amendments have been put forward by ZANU PF to suit their ends with no public consultation whatsoever.
The Electoral Reform Bill is designed to create the impression that electoral reforms are being implemented when in fact, the proposed amendments take away more than they give and seek to exclude effective political participation in the forthcoming elections by the CCC.
Despite the constitutional obligation under s68 to consult the public when administrative action of this nature is undertaken, there is no record of public or stakeholder consultations in the lead-up to the draft amendments.
No meetings of political parties nor Civic Society Organizations were convened by either by ZEC or the Ministry of
Justice to consider recommendations from stakeholders. Written submissions were not solicited either.
An attempt has been made to belatedly stitch together electronic public hearings which are set to commence today.
We take issue with this methodology as it excludes the majority of the population which do not have access to the internet and may not be able to participate in the radio hearings due to technical challenges or load shedding.
The electronic hearings are also unconstitutional as they fail to facilitate comprehensive involvement and submissions from interested parties in legislative matters as required sections 68 and 141 of the Constitution.
B. Amendments designed to disqualify CCC candidates through targeted ‘criminal convictions’ 
This proposed amendment requires aspiring candidates to make solemn declarations that they have no conviction of at least 12 months prior to the election.
This amendment is calculated to ensure our members who are facing targeted prosecutions and are victims of clear weaponization of the law to silence the opposition do not stand as candidates.
This implied disqualification clause for Parliamentary candidates violates and is ultra vires the Constitution.
The Constitution sets out the only competent grounds for disqualification of Members of Parliament in sections 121, 125 and 129.
Crucially, there is no mention of disqualification due to prior conviction before tenure of office.
C. Driver’s licence as permissible proof of identity incompetent as it does not prove citizenship 
Section 67 of the Constitution expressly provides that only Zimbabwean citizens are eligible to participate in electoral processes.
By implication, drivers’ licenses do not constitute proof of identity for electoral purposes as it is common cause that they do not prove citizenship. A non-Zimbabwean can hold a valid Zimbabwean driver’s licence.
This clause is therefore irrelevant and does not contribute materially to the enhancement of the citizens right to register to vote or vote.
D. Implementation of Constitutional Amendments 1 and 2 premature, challenge still before the courts 
The proposed amendments on the 30% women local government quota and the youth quota were necessitated by Constitutional Amendments 1 and 2 which are currently being challenged before the courts by civic entity, Veritas citing procedural flaws.
Therefore, the proposed implementation of constitutional amendments that are currently sub judice is premature.
E. No legal framework for implementation of women and youth quotas
Further and in any event, the Electoral Amendment Bill does not create the required legal framework for the operationalization of the Constitution in respect of the women and youth quotas.
The constitutional amendment in Section 124 introduced new provisions which mandated parties to ensure that their lists are inclusive of young women below the ages of 35, women with disabilities and young women with disabilities.
There is no enforcement mechanism in the draft law to ensure implementation by political parties as would have been expected.
F. 30% Women’s quota for Local Government unconstitutional
The Electoral Amendment Bill provides for a 30% women’s quota in local authorities. This violates the 50% gender parity threshold set out in the Constitution. Sections 17, 56 and 80 of the Constitution expressly provide for 50/50 equality regarding gender representation at all levels of Government.
The Electoral Amendment Bill should therefore put in place mechanisms that advance the achievement of the 50/50 gender parity within the existing number of wards instead of creating additional 587 council seats over and above the current 1958.
The inclusion of women representatives should be incorporated into existing council seats to ensure compliance with 50/50 gender equality.
G. The mandate of women elected to the quota is not defined
The 30% women’s quota for local government is not accompanied with a clarification of the role of the women listed who would have no allocated wards and thus no clear jurisdiction or defined role in the local government architecture.
There is a risk that they will be rendered redundant and ineffective in communities while remaining costly to the fiscus.
Gender parity concerns should be addressed through substantive reform and not window dressing as we see here.
There is also the risk that the women will be elbowed out of the directly elected ward seats and confined to the reserved quota seats which undermines effective women participation in the local authority political space.
The increase in the number of council seats will inevitably create administrative and financial challenges for local authorities that already face operational challenges and budgetary constraints.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there can be no doubt that the proposed amendments are superficial in that they do not address the essential election systems and process principles enshrined in Chapter 7 of the Constitution.
Consequently, these proposals fail the litmus test of applying safeguards for a free, fair and credible election.
We call for sincere, comprehensive reforms that will move the needle and ensure that we create a conducive electoral environment for electoral players and fully facilitate the ability of citizens to exercise their political rights and participation in electoral processes.
</blockquote>

FULL TEXT: Electoral Amendment Bill Unconstitutional, Inadequate And Anti-reform - CCC

The opposition <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Citizens%27_Coalition_for_Change">Citizens’ Coalition for Change</a> (CCC) today, 24 January 2023, marks one year of existence.
In a Twitter post marking the party’s first anniversary, CCC leader Nelson Chamisa said they are aiming at winning a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly in elections scheduled for later this year. Said Chamisa:
<blockquote>
IN ONE YEAR, YOU HAVE EXCELLED…Change Champions, you moved mountains. Because #Godisinit you Won 19/28 MPs, 89/149 Councillors in by-elections.
THANK YOU; … For your solidarity &amp; support [and] For believing and supporting us against all odds. #ANewGreatZimbabwe loading.
We aim to #WinBig to seal the Presidency. 2/3 in Parly, &amp; choose both speaker of Parliament and President of Senate.
We must attain a majority in local authorities. Citizens, let’s do it again! Come, #Thistime let us make it happen Big! #Onepeople
</blockquote>
The resolution to launch CCC was made on 22 January 2022 by the party’s National Council.
The resolution to abandon the MDC Alliance name came after MDC-T leader Douglas Mwonzora appropriated the MDC brand and all its variants.
On 24 January 2022, Chamisa made the announcement during a press conference at Bronte Hotel in Harare that they were launching the Citizens’ Coalition for Change.

"A New Great Zimbabwe Is Loading", Says Chamisa As CCC Marks 1 Year Of Existence

The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has accused ZANU PF of abusing the police after its leader, Nelson Chamisa, was blocked from launching a national tree-planting programme this Thursday in Gutu.
CCC spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere said ZANU PF is scared of the opposition, adding that they will challenge the prohibition by the police in court. Said Mahere:
<blockquote>
Our lawyers are challenging the illegal prohibition. Zanu PF must stop abusing the police. It is not a crime to plant trees! Varikukwata! (They are scared).
</blockquote>
Police in Masvingo invoked the Maintenance of Peace &amp; Order Act to ban a tree planting day activity organised by CCC member Lloyd Mupfudze in ward 4, Gutu, where Chamisa was expected to preside.
In a letter addressed to Mupfudze, Chief Superintendent Taurai Joackim Mambure, who is the Regulating Authority for Masvingo East Police District, said the tree-planting-day event cannot go ahead because another political party had already notified them of its intention to hold a political meeting in the same ward.
Mambure warned CCC that failure to comply with the prohibition will have serious consequences like imprisonment.
CCC says its mass tree planting day event seeks to promote reforestation and afforestation in the countryside to ensure that communities protect the environment.

CCC Accuses ZANU PF Of Abusing Police After Prohibition Of Tree Panting Event

The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party is set to be officially launched early next year with its leader Nelson Chamisa set to be declared the party’s uncontested presidential candidate for the 2023 elections, it has emerged.
CCC deputy spokesperson Gift Ostallos Siziba told The Standard that they are ready to launch the party “soon” with Chamisa as its leader. He said:
<blockquote>
Chamisa unveiled the CCC in January this year after his rival, Douglas Mwonzora, who leads MDC-T grabbed the MDC Alliance party, including its symbols and emblems from him.
Since its unveiling, on 24 January 2022, CCC is yet to come up with a constitution and official structures.
We are ready to launch CCC very soon. Chamisa is qualitatively and quantitatively the most popular, most loved, and most preferred leader.
President Chamisa is by far the preferred choice in options for the next president.
We held our meeting last week in Harare with all the point persons from all over the country, our change champions from all over the country working in the community to inform the people on our path to launch the movement.
We met to get reports on voters’ roll, delimitation and voter registration in the countryside preparedness. There’s excitement in the rank and file.
The launch will be a confirmation beyond any doubt that we are new in form, character and strategy.
</blockquote>
Political analyst Vivid Gwede said it was “logical” for Chamisa to stand as the presidential candidate as the founding CCC leader.
He said Chamisa was objectively “popular as confirmed by the 2018 elections and the recent Afrobarometer survey.”
However, another political commentator, Eldred Masunungure, who is a University of Zimbabwe political science lecturer, said that if CCC endorses Chamisa uncontested, it will be against the principles of democracy. He said:
<blockquote>
Political party leaders do not want to take the risk of being booted out.
Going to an election uncontested internally is a risk-prevention strategy.
But it points to the shrinkage of democracy. It raises issues of transparency and democratic credentials.
To barricade a leader against the democratic choices of supporters is against the principles of democracy as members should have the freedom to choose the leaders they want.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/thestandard/news/article/200004884/chamisas-ccc-set-for-official-launch-ahead-of-2023">The Standard</a>

CCC Set For Official Launch Ahead Of 2023 Elections

Independent MP, Temba Mliswa (Norton), has challenged the opposition to be consistent and show decisive leadership if it truly habours ambitions of forming the next government.
Mliswa said the opposition has over the years changed its position on important issues that affect the nation such as land reform, sanctions, and power-sharing. He said:
<blockquote>
The opposition is failing to be a veritable alternative as it continues dithering over issues exhibiting a lack of consistency and focus.
One day they stand for one thing and the next they are lamenting or denying alignment with the same. How can they get into power?
On Land Reform, they refused to participate saying it’s a [ZANU PF] thing. They attacked us for getting land.
Today they are struggling and trying to find land for agricultural business. Have they changed their position or what? Now they say it was good!
They said Mugabe was illegitimate and yet still went into a GNU with him as the head. The same with ED. They walked out and protested accusing him of being illegitimate.
Yet today they are accepting the benefits and perks from his tenure and leadership.
Today they say we never called for sanctions and disavow any links to them. Yet at their pronouncement they celebrated them as an international political masterstroke against the Govt.
Now they deny any links to them. Where do they stand then? Leadership requires decisiveness.
[Douglas Mwonzora] carried out a purging campaign recalling their MPs&amp; Councilors and they cried foul. I raised a motion to have Section 129(1)(k) under which recalls happen &amp; they didn’t support it.
Only Hon Mushoriwa debated. Yet it affected them not me. So what do they want?
Today Gvt offers loans and they accept them yet their leader says something else different. This is despite that he himself has received equivalent perks during the Mugabe tenure.
Instead of supporting us, he goes against us, succumbing to ill-informed mob pressure.
In this medley of contradictions, fluctuations and dissonance, it’s apparent that the opposition isn’t providing a cohesive front nor is it giving the electorate confidence.
You cannot be constantly swayed by public pressure to accept impractical things. Show some spine!
I’m my own person and will support anything that is progressive and developmental. It doesn’t matter if it’s [ZANU PF] or [CCC] who have said it or done it. The path of principles remains true and straight in whatever form or nature.
Equally, populism is dangerous. You cannot have a whole party subsisting on the euphoria and energy of populism.
It’s not a veritable foundation to claim power on. In fact, populism, like a wave, will subside and people will want to see substance and focus not drama.
Nelson Chamisa] succumbed to public pressure and went against his own MPs but in doing so contradicted his own past actions.
That’s not a spine for leadership. Stick to the truth even against the masses. Truth and time will exonerate and justify you.
</blockquote>

"Indecisive And Unfocused" Zim Opposition Cannot Win Power - Mliswa

Social media users, including supporters of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), have condemned the opposition party’s legislators for accepting loans from the government less than 12 months before the end of their terms.
The government has offered a US$40 000 housing loan to each sitting Member of Parliament (MP), US$500 000 for individual ministers and US$350 000 for their deputies.
The loans have seemingly angered CCC supporters who feel that the MPs should reject them to prove that they are not in Parliament for personal gain.
University of Zimbabwe (UZ) Political Science lecturer, Eldred Masunungure, told <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200004372/ccc-mps-defy-chamisa-on-us40k-loot">NewsDay</a> that CCC MPs had fallen into the ZANU PF trap to expose the opposition party’s “lack of organisational cohesion”. He said:
<blockquote>
In this case of loans, the party is being judged against its moral standards. It is against their party position on pursuing selfless interests, but the MPs are rather benefiting from political patronage.
In this case, no party position has been abided by. The logical thing to do in this case was for them to sit down and discuss the matter and agree on one position.
What it means is that the leader is very consistent, but he has failed to whip his subordinates to one collective stance.
</blockquote>
Another political analyst, Vivid Gwede, said the public expects opposition MPs to act differently from ZANU PF legislators. Said Gwede:
<blockquote>
Members of Parliament from the opposition will always be held to a higher standard than those from ZANU PF because the expectation is that they should represent and bring a new culture.
That expected culture is about service over self. Hence, when they appear to be already enjoying themselves while the rest of the populace is suffering, there is a feeling of betrayal.
But that does mean that people should get acclimatised to the selfishness of ZANU PF MPs.
At this moment, MPs should be fighting for the resuscitation of basic public services such as health and education.
</blockquote>
Team Pachedu, a group of activists, critical of the government and the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), said that Harare North MP Allan Norman “Rusty” Markham is the only legislator to reject the loan. It also said:
<blockquote>
US$500,000 grants for ministers is madness. US$350,000 grants for deputies is madness. MPs will not complain about this wasteful spending because they have been silenced with US$40,000. Zimbabweans, we are on our own!
Very unstrategic for CCC MPs to take the $40,000. With only 6 months before the next election how do they attack the other side of failing when they too received the loot? When the alternative acts like the current it ceases being one.
</blockquote>

"CCC Being Judged Against Its Moral Standards"

Chinhoyi Magistrate, Lisa Mutendereki, has ordered the Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC), to vacate a property in Chinhoyi to pave way for the MDC-T to take over.
Mutendereki granted the final order on Friday following a spoilation application by the MDC-T led by Douglas Mwonzora, who was also acting as the party’s lawyer during court proceedings.
Speaking in an interview with <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/court-orders-chamisas-ccc-to-vacate-chinhoyi-property-mwonzora-now-targets-eviction-of-illegal-occupants/">NewZimbabwe.com</a> after the Friday hearing, Mwonzora expressed satisfaction over the ruling. He said:
<blockquote>
MDC sought to deal with two parties, that is CCC and Justin Munyaradzi. The political party occupied the property in Chinhoyi and the court ruled that they should vacate the property.
In other words, our application was allowed regarding CCC. Regarding the employee, Mr Justin Munyaradzi who is there (at the property), the court will make a ruling. We are going to file further submissions.
We are very happy about the way proceedings have gone, the CCC is going to be out of our office. We are now going to have to deal with one person.
</blockquote>
CCC lawyer, Agency Gumbo said there was a need to separate CCC and Munyaradzi. He said:
<blockquote>
What Mwonzora and MDC sought was to entangle CCC in their bid to evict people who are rightfully and lawfully at the said property.
We said you can’t seek to evict people using spoilation proceedings… what is clear is Mwonzora is trying to seek, through the back door, an eviction order for people who reside at the property, and that is what we have resisted and said is not competent at law.
</blockquote>
But Mwonzora argued that CCC wants to use Munyaradzi to have access to the building. He said:
<blockquote>
Munyaradzi doesn’t deny he is a member of the 1st (CCC) respondent. It is now common cause that CCC wrongfully and unlawfully occupied the property.
This court has given judgment against CCC, but he wants to hang on to the property so that 1st respondent can use the premises.
Munyaradzi accepted service on behalf of CCC confirming he is its agent. He argues he is holding on to property on instructions of a company called Lafolic Enterprises, but without proof of a lease agreement or contract of employment.
He argues that he is a caretaker and employee of Lafolic Enterprises. An employee cannot exercise the right of possession on behalf of the employer.
</blockquote>
The parties are expected to file further submissions on Monday while the ruling is set for 30 November 2022.

Court Orders CCC To Vacate Chinhoyi Property

The opposition Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) says Zimbabwe is yet to meet the conditions to be readmitted to the Commonwealth because of continuing human rights violations.
CCC spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere lamented what she called violations of the constitution, property rights, and the escalation of politically motivated violence by ZANU PF against innocent people. Said Mahere:
<blockquote>
For Zimbabwe to rejoin the community of nations, it is very important for us to stop abusing citizens.
You know that there are political prisoners who have been in pretrial detention for more than 140 days.
Violations of the constitution, violations of property rights, corruption, the escalation of violence by ZANU-PF against citizens, journalists and members of political opposition and civic society, the shrinking democratic space and the continued promulgation of repressive unconstitutional legislation — that does not bode well for Zimbabwe to be received back into the community of nations.
</blockquote>
Zengeza West MP, Job Sikhala, who is CCC deputy chairperson, Chitungwiza North MP Godfrey Sithole, and 14 party members have been in prison since June on allegations of political violence.
Sithole was released on Friday night but others are still languishing in pre-trial detention.
A Commonwealth delegation led by assistant secretary-general Prof Luis Franceschi is currently in Zimbabwe to assess whether the country has met the conditions to be readmitted to the group. | <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/zimbabwes-commonwealth-return-bid-opposition-says-no/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>

Zimbabwe Yet To Meet Conditions For Commonwealth Readmission - CCC

The opposition Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) has said it will not boycott the 2023 polls after suspected ZANU PF youths on Tuesday barricaded the Media Centre in Harare to stop leaders from holding a Press conference.
CCC spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere, secretary for elections Ian Makone and his deputy Ellen Shiriyedenga were forced to exit the venue through the back door as suspected ZANU PF youths cordoned off the place.
The assailants also entered the building and took away CCC banners and materials meant to be used during the Press conference.
Police officers who were deployed outside the Media Centre allegedly did nothing to stop the suspected ZANU PF activists from disrupting CCC’s Press Conference.
The opposition party had called the Press conference to update the media on issues to do with elections as the country prepares for general elections in 2023.
Addressing journalists after the Press Conference was reconvened, CCC spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere alleged that the disruption was a ZANU PF tactic to force the party to boycott the upcoming election. She said:
<blockquote>
We started late because ZANU PF stormed our venue and stole our brand property which includes banners and other identifying material.
But we have to continue because CCC is a party of courage. ZANU PF is running scared because no political party that is confident of its public support storms the venue of a Press conference and uses violence and steals another party’s material.
What is more disappointing is that we have the Zimbabwe Republic Police stationed outside.
They are armed and in their riot gear and they are at the venue yet they are unable to stop the violence.
… Our constitutional right to gather and share our narrative, ideas, and plans must not be impeded. We do not call ourselves change champions for nothing.
ZANU PF is trying to do everything it can to stop us from participating. A boycott is out of the question no matter how much violence and intimidation they use. We are going to march forward.
</blockquote>
ZANU PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa said CCC should report the perpetrators to the police so that they face the full wrath of the law. He said:
<blockquote>
They must go and report the matter to the police. It’s a minor issue that they can solve. We don’t condone violence in ZANU PF.
The President (Emmerson Mnangagwa) is preaching the gospel of peace. If people break the law they should face the wrath of the law.
This is just a political scoresheet to throw the name of ZANU PF into disrepute. The matter should be reported to the police.
Otherwise, we won’t go anywhere with political crybabies.
</blockquote>
In the past, CCC activities have been disrupted by suspected ZANU PF activists, and in some cases, the disruptions have been violent leaving people dead or injured. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200003268/rowdy-mob-disrupts-ccc-presser">NewsDay</a>

We Won't Boycott Elections, Says CCC After Mob Disrupts Press Conference

Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiZC) has criticised the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) for allegedly doing nothing to stop suspected ZANU activists from disrupting a CCC Press conference in Harare on Tuesday.
There was heavy police presence outside the Media Centre in Harare where CCC was scheduled to address a press conference.
However, suspected ZANU PF members stormed into the conference room and allegedly stole CCC banners just before the press conference started and forced some CCC officials to escape through a back exit.
In a statement, CiZC accused police officers of ignoring the violence that was unfolding before them. Read the statement:
<blockquote>
While [police officers] patrolled the entrance to Media Centre, where [CCC] was due to hold a press conference, suspected [ZANU PF] youths stormed the venue and violently kicked out the CCC officials who were yet to start their press conference.
What is clear is that [police officers] stood by and decided to pay a blind eye to the unfolding violence, a situation that unfortunately points to partisanship by the police. Police have not arrested [ZANU PF] members implicated in violence.
According to the Constitution, the police service is supposed to act in an impartial manner and in line with the dictates of the Zimbabwe Constitution.
The latest incident is not isolated. The State has continued to abuse state security agents and the judiciary for political purposes.
We implore the police to bring the perpetrators of today’s violent incident to account.
</blockquote>
CCC spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere said the party will not be pushed into violent confrontations with ZANU PF. She tweeted:
<blockquote>
We only know peace. We won’t be sucked into a game of violence. We make no apologies for choosing non-violent resistance over Stone Age barbarism. But we will never be silenced.
You can steal our banners but you can never steal our voice.
</blockquote>

Police Accused Of Failing To Prevent Suspected ZANU PF Activists From Disrupting CCC Event

Zimbabwe’s largest opposition party, the Citizens Coalitions for Change (CCC), has called for a peace pledge that should be adhered to by all stakeholders before the country holds elections next year.
This follows a resurgence in cases of politically motivated violence across the country since the 26 March by-elections.
CCC deputy spokesperson Gift “Ostallos” Siziba on Monday told <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200002872/ccc-proposes-national-peace-pledge">NewsDay</a> that the peace pledge will go a long way in creating a peaceful environment during the general elections. Siziba said:
<blockquote>
Our president Nelson Chamisa is proposing a national peace pledge targeting different stakeholders who will be involved in electoral processes. We are targeting everyone including observers and electoral watchdogs.
</blockquote>
However, ZANU PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa said CCC must first concede defeat in the 2018 presidential election before talking about peace pledges. He said:
<blockquote>
As ZANU PF, we have always loved peace. On CCC’s suggestions of a national peace pledge, I don’t think we will be part of it unless they concede defeat in the 2018 Presidential elections — that is the only sticking point. They should just concede defeat.
</blockquote>
CCC leader Nelson Chamisa, who was the MDC Alliance presidential candidate in the 2018 elections, has steadfastly refused to accept his defeat, claiming that the election was rigged in ZANU PF’s favour.
Even after the Constitutional Court bench unanimously ruled there was no evidence of rigging, Chamisa has refused to recognise President Emmerson Mnangagwa as legitimate.

CCC Proposes National Peace Pledge To Curb Political Violence

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