Chamisa’s Testimony: A Critical Stance on ED’s Commission

On Monday, Nelson Chamisa, a prominent opposition figure, attended a Harare City Commission hearing chaired by retired Justice Maphosa Cheda. This inquiry was established under President Mnangagwa’s directive.

Chamisa expressed reservations about the Commission’s foundation but complied as a gesture of respect and professionalism. His appearance underscored his role as an advocate for justice and constitutionalism.

The Commission questioned him regarding allegations linked to a Harare City Council “regularization process.” Chamisa dismissed these claims, emphasizing his lack of jurisdiction over local authority matters.

Urban councils, he clarified, operate under the Urban Councils Act. Decisions are the domain of council committees or full council motions—not external actors or political entities.

An audio recording was introduced during the session, purportedly implicating Chamisa. Played on a phone, its quality raised doubts about its authenticity and credibility.

Chamisa, unfamiliar with the voice or the councillor mentioned, noted the audio also implicated Mnangagwa. He argued that fairness demanded Mnangagwa’s equal accountability in such instances.

The opposition leader emphasized the principle of proof: allegations require evidence. Summoning individuals based on unverified claims, he argued, undermines justice and accountability.

Chamisa also condemned the demolition of homes, describing it as cruel and a blatant violation of human rights. For him, such actions reflect systemic governance failures.

He drew parallels to the 2018 Motlanthe Commission, which he characterized as another distraction from substantive national issues. This pattern, he noted, persists in 2023.

Chamisa labeled the governance crisis a product of corruption, mismanagement, and impunity. He called for addressing the true causes of urban decay and holding the right individuals accountable.

His stance, shared on X, highlighted the urgent need for accountability in Zimbabwe’s governance and an end to politically motivated inquiries.