Former Citizen Coalition for Change (CCC) leader, Nelson Chamisa has called on citizens to take an active role in shaping the country’s future, amidst ongoing political tensions.
Chamisa resigned from the CCC in late January 2024 due to alleged infiltration by members of the ruling party.
Speaking at a press conference last Monday, Chamisa urged Zimbabweans to stand up and demand change in the face of alleged electoral fraud and political repression
”Fellow citizens, may I hasten to say, the following and exhaustion of available remedies and peaceful means to resolve national issues is not a manifestation of weakness or that we are devoid of other ideas and means.
It is our strict commitment to finding each other and amicably resolving our points of conflict, disjuncture, and disagreement. We have committed to a peaceful resolution of disputes,” said Chamisa.
Chamisa revealed that he had petitioned the Southern African Development Community (SADC) for assistance in resolving the election dispute, but the regional organization is yet to provide positive feedback.
The August 2023 general elections, which saw President Emmerson Mnangagwa re-elected, were marred by allegations of widespread fraud and voter suppression confirmed by the SADC, AU and EU reports.
“The SADC has a critical role to play in promoting democracy and human rights in our region,” Chamisa said.
“We urge them to take our petition seriously and to work with us towards a peaceful and democratic resolution to the crisis in Zimbabwe,” he added.
Chamisa’s call to action comes as tensions continue to simmer in Zimbabwe, with many opposition supporters feeling disenfranchised and disillusioned with the political process.
The government has yet to respond to Chamisa’s statement, but analysts say the opposition leader’s words are likely to resonate with many Zimbabweans who are frustrated with the country’s political and economic situation.
