CCC Leadership Dispute Intensifies as High Court Reserves Judgment

The internal conflict within Zimbabwe’s Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has escalated, with the High Court reserving judgment on a case involving acting president Professor Welshman Ncube and interim secretary-general Senator Sengezo Tshabangu. The dispute centers on alleged unauthorized changes to the party’s parliamentary leadership.

Background of the Dispute

Professor Ncube contends that Senator Tshabangu unlawfully reshuffled key parliamentary positions, including the dismissal of several CCC legislators, actions he asserts contravene the party’s constitutional procedures. The urgent application before the High Court seeks to prevent Speaker of the National Assembly Advocate Jacob Mudenda from implementing Tshabangu’s changes.

Jurisdictional Challenge

During the court proceedings, Tshabangu’s legal team, led by Advocates Lewis Uriri and Nqobani Sithole, argued that the High Court lacks jurisdiction over the matter, suggesting it should be referred to the Constitutional Court due to its constitutional implications. They also claimed the issue is moot, as the Speaker has already acted on the changes.

Contested Parliamentary Changes

The contested reshuffles include replacing Chikanga MP Lynette Karenyi-Kore, formerly Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, with Sunningdale MP Maureen Kademaunga. Other affected legislators include Marondera Central MP Caston Matewu, replaced by Zivai Mhetu as chairperson of the Media, Information, and Broadcasting Services committee, and Sithabisiwe Moyo, replaced by Senator Maxwell Mdhluri as chairperson of the Thematic Committee on Indigenisation.

Arguments from Both Sides

Advocate Method Ndlovu, representing Professor Ncube, countered that the Speaker acted unlawfully in endorsing Tshabangu’s letter while the legal legitimacy of Tshabangu’s position as secretary-general remains disputed. He emphasized that Tshabangu’s actions undermine the party’s constitution.

Implications for CCC’s Future

This leadership crisis risks undermining the CCC’s role as a credible opposition. If unresolved, it may leave the party fragmented and vulnerable in the lead-up to future elections.

Awaiting Judicial Decision

Justice Neville Wamambo has reserved judgment on whether the High Court will hear the case or refer it to the Constitutional Court, leaving the CCC’s internal leadership dispute unresolved for the time being.