Zimbabwe: Opposition Calls for Dialogue Between Chamisa and Mnangagwa to Resolve ‘Continuing Political Crisis’

Citizens Coalition for Change’s (CCC) highest decision-making body is urging its leader, Nelson Chamisa, to engage in negotiations with President Mnangagwa.

This was revealed during the recent Citizens National Assembly (CNA) session, where discussions were held to determine the way forward for the main opposition party.

Following a contested election that was criticized by observers, the country finds itself in a political deadlock, with the main opposition disputing the legitimacy of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who emerged victorious in the August plebiscite, defeating Chamisa.

As part of its resolutions, the CNA stated that a dialogue addressing the elections, political reforms, and the establishment of a transitional framework is the solution to the current “political stalemate”.

“The Assembly reaffirmed its decision, mandating its leader, President Nelson Chamisa, to pursue political dialogue as the only way to effectively resolve the ongoing and worsening political crisis in Zimbabwe through peaceful means. The Assembly also stressed the importance of principled and value-driven dialogue,” read the resolutions.

In light of the escalating political tensions, there has been a rise in allegations of opposition members being abducted.

CCC has accused the Zanu PF-led government of suppressing dissenting voices.

Last week, a supporter of CCC, Tapfumaneyi Masaya, was found dead two days after being abducted while conducting door-to-door campaigns in Mabvuku.

“The deteriorating political and human rights situation is directly linked to the disputed and unresolved August 2023 harmonized elections. The Assembly expressed deep concern over the rapidly worsening human rights situation in the country, including recent abductions, murders, arbitrary arrests, unlawful recalls, and the continued unlawful detention of political prisoners such as Job Sikhala, Jacob Ngarivhume, and MRP members.

“The CNA vehemently condemned the abduction and murder of Pastor Tapfumaneyi Masaya and expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of progress in holding the perpetrators accountable.

“The CNA also condemned the abduction and torture of Member of Parliament Hon Takudzwa Ngadziore and Hon James Chidakwa, who both actively support our cause for change.

“The Assembly calls on the relevant state authorities and institutions to immediately restore the rule of law and constitutionalism in Zimbabwe. Additionally, the Assembly strongly urges local and international human rights organizations and activists to continue to hold the government of Zimbabwe accountable for its disregard for the law,” stated CCC.