Chamisa Disowns CCC Councillors Amid Corruption Allegations

Former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa has distanced himself from alleged misconduct by CCC councillors, intensifying political scrutiny over Harare’s controversial land regularization processes.

Appearing before a Commission of Inquiry investigating Harare City Council’s financial affairs, Chamisa vehemently denied accusations of directing councillors to expedite the formalization of illegal settlements.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa established the commission, chaired by retired Justice Maphios Cheda, to assess compliance with the Public Finance Management Act. Chamisa’s summons followed claims by a councillor implicating him in alleged directives.

Evidence leader Tabani Mpofu confronted Chamisa with allegations that councillors collaborated with land barons in corrupt dealings. Chamisa refuted these assertions, instead accusing councillors of straying from their responsibilities after election.

He criticized what he described as “shenanigans” within local authorities, emphasizing his inability to influence council processes due to statutory governance frameworks. Chamisa dismissed any capacity to direct councillors’ actions, attributing responsibility to existing legal statutes.

Expressing dismay, he lambasted councillors for neglecting party allegiance, stating they often “run amok” once in office, abandoning both reason and loyalty. Chamisa described their actions as detrimental to public trust.

Addressing allegations of his involvement, Chamisa insisted he never engaged in discussions with individual councillors. He highlighted the absence of evidence linking him to the purported directives.

“I don’t address caucuses of a few councillors,” he asserted, adding he could not recognize most councillors under the CCC ticket, given the vast number elected nationwide.

Chamisa also condemned house demolitions executed by the council, questioning the logic of such actions after allowing initial construction. He called for accountability from those responsible for undermining citizens’ rights.

The former CCC leader reiterated his commitment to justice, property rights, and the rule of law. He described the demolitions as a blatant disregard for constitutional protections.

The issue of land regularization has remained contentious, with accusations of land barons exploiting their connections to allocate and formalize land illicitly. The commission is expected to uncover whether political figures facilitated such operations.

Chamisa further called for balanced investigations, suggesting President Mnangagwa should also be summoned to account for his alleged involvement. He questioned why the inquiry seemingly targeted him while ignoring other implicated figures.

Land corruption scandals have plagued Harare for years, eroding public confidence in local governance. The inquiry’s findings could expose deeper systemic issues within Zimbabwe’s urban management structures.

Chamisa maintained his innocence, framing allegations against him as baseless. He expressed hope the commission would adhere to principles of fairness and evidence-based inquiry.

While the CCC faces internal criticism over councillors’ conduct, Chamisa’s testimony shifts attention to broader political accountability, reigniting debates over governance and corruption in Zimbabwe.

The outcome of this inquiry could have significant implications for public trust, not only in opposition politics but also in the nation’s leadership. For Harare residents, it symbolizes a quest for transparency amidst enduring challenges.