Intra-Party Turmoil: Alleged CCC Arsonists Brought to Justice

In a development that has left political circles in Beitbridge simmering, police have apprehended three individuals linked to the arson attack on Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Ward 3 councillor Takavingei Mahachi’s property.

The violent incident, which took place months ago, had shocked the local community and further exacerbated existing tensions within the party.

The suspects, now in custody, are no strangers to controversy. They had been previously involved in another politically charged case, accused of assaulting two other prominent figures—deputy mayor John Manatsa and former Beitbridge West MP Morgan Ncube.

Both had only recently taken up their positions before the alleged assault took place. The swift arrest of these individuals by the Beitbridge police marks a significant milestone in the ongoing investigations.

Interestingly, the breakthrough came after a financial dispute between the suspects themselves. This led to a public fallout, with one of the individuals reportedly exposing their role in the act of arson. They had allegedly been acting on orders from senior CCC officials in the area.

Such revelations are not just indicative of deep-seated factionalism but also raise critical questions about internal strife within Zimbabwe’s opposition ranks.

The torching of Mahachi’s property involved substantial damage, with assets valued at ZAR300,000 reduced to ashes. His garage, located in Dulivhadzimu township, saw his Chevrolet Trailblazer, tyres, air compressors, and other essential equipment engulfed in flames.

For a figure who has already faced his share of violent confrontations, Mahachi’s ordeal is emblematic of a broader, unsettling narrative of escalating violence within opposition politics.

Factional infighting within the CCC Beitbridge district is far from new. The animosity between rival factions has occasionally boiled over into outright violence, often leaving party leaders and members in precarious situations. This latest incident, however, seems to reflect a more dangerous trend—one where the use of arson, assault, and even attempted murder has become a go-to strategy for settling scores.

What stands out in this case is the extent to which financial disputes can fan the flames of political violence. The CCC, being one of Zimbabwe’s prominent opposition parties, has long grappled with internal divisions. However, these recent events underscore just how frail the party’s cohesion can be when financial disagreements spiral out of control.

It’s important to note that the suspects involved in this case are not only facing charges for the arson at Mahachi’s property but also have a pending court case from an earlier incident.

Back in May, a group of party members, including some of the individuals now in custody, allegedly attacked Beitbridge deputy mayor John Manatsa. Reports suggest that the attackers not only assaulted him but also made off with ZAR2,500 and USD1,800, further complicating the legal battle ahead.

As the CCC leadership in Beitbridge tries to keep a lid on these internal divisions, the broader question remains: What is driving these increasingly violent outbursts within Zimbabwe’s opposition? Political analysts may argue that it reflects the growing frustration among party members over leadership struggles, resources, and unmet expectations.

Others may point to a more cynical explanation—that power struggles within the party are beginning to mirror those seen in ruling political organizations. Either way, the consequences of such actions could weaken the party’s public standing.

Given that Zimbabwe’s political landscape is already fraught with challenges, this internal turmoil comes at a critical time. With elections on the horizon and an electorate increasingly looking for alternatives to the ruling ZANU PF, the CCC’s ability to present a unified front is crucial.

However, the persistent infighting, coupled with allegations of criminal activity by some members, raises concerns about the party’s future viability as a cohesive force.

Officer commanding Beitbridge Police District Chief Superintendent Mesuli Ncube remained tight-lipped regarding specific details of the case, confirming only that the suspects are expected to appear in court soon. His silence, though typical in such sensitive cases, leaves room for speculation about whether higher-ranking officials within the CCC may eventually be implicated.

The broader implications of this case extend beyond Beitbridge. As the CCC strives to position itself as a credible opposition force ahead of future elections, its leadership will need to address the internal fractures that have plagued the party. Whether it’s through mediating financial disputes or reining in rogue members, the need for decisive leadership has never been more urgent.

As the legal process unfolds, the Zimbabwean public—and particularly CCC supporters—will be watching closely. The arrests in Beitbridge may well be the tip of the iceberg, revealing deeper cracks within a party that is still grappling with its identity and future direction.

For Mahachi, the trauma of the arson attack adds another chapter to his own harrowing political journey, one that reflects the darker side of Zimbabwe’s opposition politics. As Beitbridge looks on, the fire that destroyed his property may ultimately symbolize a larger, more perilous blaze—one that threatens the very fabric of the CCC’s local leadership.

The Zim Bulletin