HARARE – Former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa has declared he will not participate in the planned protests against President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government on October 17, citing the opposition’s bitter experience with the November 2017 military intervention. Chamisa argues that their involvement in the events that led to the ousting of former President Robert Mugabe served as a crucial lesson, teaching them not to become entangled in ZANU-PF’s internal power struggles.
Chamisa’s decision comes in response to a call from ousted ZANU-PF Central Committee member Blessed Runesu Geza for a one-million-man march on Friday. Geza aims to protest against Mnangagwa and his alleged corrupt cartel, targeting high-profile figures such as controversial business tycoons Wicknell Chivayo, Geo Pomona CEO Delish Nguwaya, Paul Tungwarara, and Kudakwashe Tagwirei.
However, political analysts suggest that the planned protest extends beyond mere accusations of corruption, pointing to a deeper succession battle unfolding between Mnangagwa’s faction and his deputy, Rtd General Constantino Chiwenga.
It is widely believed that Chiwenga is the frontrunner to succeed Mnangagwa, with many suggesting he has been patiently awaiting his opportunity. However, reports indicate that Mnangagwa loyalists are obstructing his path, with some calling for the incumbent to extend his term of office beyond the constitutional limit of two terms.
Chamisa’s stance echoes the experience of the opposition, previously known as the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), which participated in the protests that led to Robert Mugabe’s removal from power. The MDC had anticipated a role in a new government, a hope that proved short-lived. They felt betrayed and used, having been abandoned by ZANU-PF and Mnangagwa shortly after Mugabe’s departure.
Responding directly to calls for him and his supporters to join Friday’s protests in Harare, Chamisa took to social media platform X, stating, “2017 taught us a big lesson!”.
Chamisa maintains that the root cause of Zimbabwe’s problems lies in disputed elections, arguing that until this issue is addressed, the country will remain trapped in its socioeconomic and political challenges.
“Ignoring the 2023 stolen election is ignoring the root of our crisis. Anything that does not address the 2023 stolen election is a fraud and a waste of time. Corruption, capture, suffering – they’re symptoms of a disputed mandate and a contested government. Let’s treat the cause, not the symptoms,” Chamisa wrote on his X account Monday.
Despite his resignation from the CCC in January 2024, which left the opposition in further disarray, Chamisa still commands a considerable following among opposition supporters. His decision not to participate in the planned protests highlights the deep divisions and mistrust within Zimbabwe’s political landscape.
The call for protests by Geza and the accusations against Mnangagwa’s alleged corrupt cartel further expose the internal tensions within ZANU-PF. The targeting of figures like Chivayo, Nguwaya, Tungwarara, and Tagwirei suggests a power struggle between factions vying for control of the country’s resources and political influence.
Chamisa’s refusal to join the protests reflects a broader disillusionment among the opposition, who feel they have been manipulated and sidelined in the past. His emphasis on addressing the issue of disputed elections underscores the need for fundamental political reforms to ensure a more democratic and inclusive future for Zimbabwe.
The planned protests and the reactions to them highlight the complex and volatile political situation in Zimbabwe, with various actors vying for power and influence. The outcome of these events remains uncertain, but they underscore the urgent need for dialogue and reconciliation to address the country’s deep-seated challenges.
Chamisa’s call to “treat the cause, not the symptoms” resonates with many Zimbabweans who believe that addressing the root issues of disputed elections and lack of political accountability is essential for achieving lasting stability and prosperity. His decision not to participate in the protests may be seen as a pragmatic approach, focusing on long-term solutions rather than short-term gains.
As Zimbabwe continues to grapple with economic and political challenges, the actions and decisions of key political figures like Chamisa and Mnangagwa will play a crucial role in shaping the country’s future. The need for genuine dialogue, inclusive governance, and a commitment to democratic principles remains paramount for building a more just and prosperous society.
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