CCC undecided on Parly withdrawal decision

Zim Now Writer

Main opposition Citizens Coalition for Change is still undecided on whether or not to withdraw its MP from Parliament and councillors from local authorities in protest against the recall of their colleagues by Sengezo Tshabangu, who claims to be the party’s secretary general.

Tshabangu recalled dozens of CCC members from the National Assembly and local government, claiming they ceased to be party officials. His move was endorsed by the High Court, which further banned those recalled from contesting under the CCC name.

Consequently, Zanu PF won majority seats in the by-elections conducted last Saturday. There have been calls from the public for the remaining CCC MPs to pull out of Parliament in solidarity with the recalled members.

Addressing journalists in Harare, on Wednesday, CCC spokesperson, Promise Mkwananzi said the party was yet to decide on the issue, adding that consultations with stakeholders needed to take place.

“The Citizens Coalition for Change was voted into Parliament by citizens. We note the pressure coming from the public, particularly on Twitter and others on withdrawal,” Mkwananzi said.

“But it’s a decision that needs the party to thoroughly apply itself. As we apply ourselves to that decision, we’re going to consult all the relevant stakeholders, including the voters who voted for them.”

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CCC further pointed out that it will continue to approach the courts, fighting against Tshabangu despite having been receiving negative judgements. They have since appealed against a High Court judgement that banned recalled MPs from participating in the by-elections.

“We have got various sites of struggle. We're fighting in the courts,” said Mkwananzi.

“Yes, people may talk about the compromisation of the judiciary, but we feel it’s important to produce that body of evidence so that everybody can know and to continue to pile pressure on the need for the necessary reforms to strengthen our institution including the judiciary and the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission and others.”

Zanu PF needs a two-thirds majority in Parliament to make changes on the Constitution. There have been allegations that President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is 81-year-old, wants to extend his term limit by changing certain important legislative institutions.