Tshabangu Rejects Suspension by Ncube, Claims No Legitimate Leadership

In a bold move, Sengezo Tshabangu has dismissed his suspension by Welshman Ncube from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).

Tshabangu, who reshaped the CCC’s parliamentary representation post-2023 election, argues Ncube lacks the authority to suspend him.

The suspension was announced right after a High Court decision on January 8, 2025, which restrained Tshabangu from altering party leadership in Parliament.

The judge, Justice Neville Wamambo, supported Ncube’s claim that Tshabangu had no right to recall or reassign MPs.

Ncube’s action was based on a previous court ruling that labeled Tshabangu’s recalls as “unlawful and invalid.”

However, Tshabangu’s legal team, led by Nqobani Sithole, points out they’ve received no official notice of the suspension.

Sithole claims that Ncube’s term as party president has officially ended, stripping him of such decision-making powers.

According to Sithole, a legal opinion was shared with the party, clarifying that Ncube isn’t the acting president.

“He is not the acting president but masquerading as one,” Sithole stated, underlining Tshabangu’s continued role as secretary general.

The legal advisor emphasized that without a formal president, Tshabangu’s suspension holds no weight.

Sithole further noted that Ncube’s position was supposed to be rotational, lasting only three months, which never transpired.

The expiration of the party’s congress term in 2024 further complicates Ncube’s standing within the CCC.

Sithole criticized Ncube’s move as ill-considered, especially given the questionable validity of his own position.

Plans are underway to appeal Justice Wamambo’s decision at the Supreme Court, as directed by CCC.

This ongoing feud within the CCC reveals deep-seated leadership issues, potentially affecting the party’s cohesion.

The legal battles and internal power struggles are casting shadows over the CCC’s future and its role in Zimbabwe’s politics.

Tshabangu’s defiance against Ncube’s suspension order is not just a personal stand but a statement on party governance.

This situation underscores the complexities of political leadership transitions within opposition parties in Zimbabwe.

As the legal proceedings continue, the CCC’s ability to present a united front against the ruling party could be at stake.

The power dynamics within the CCC are under scrutiny, with each move potentially reshaping the party’s direction.

This internal conflict might influence how voters perceive the CCC’s stability and leadership in upcoming elections.

The appeal to the Supreme Court could further delay resolution, prolonging uncertainty within the party.

Tshabangu’s stance and legal challenges highlight the intricate dance of power and legitimacy within political entities.

This saga is a testament to the challenges opposition parties face in maintaining a coherent leadership structure.

The CCC’s internal strife could serve as a case study for political analysts on leadership and party management in Zimbabwe.

As this drama unfolds, the focus remains on how the CCC will navigate these turbulent waters to maintain its relevance.