Political Correspondent
Opposition leader Nelson Chamisa has confirmed his return to active politics, saying he will take a leadership role in a new political movement being formed to challenge the ruling ZANU-PF.
Chamisa made the announcement in Harare after signing a book of condolences for the late European Union Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Katrin Hagemann.
Speaking about his political future, Chamisa confirmed that he would play a leading role in the emerging movement, ending months of uncertainty over his next political move.
His announcement comes after his withdrawal from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), the opposition party he founded.
Chamisa quit the CCC in early 2024, accusing the state of infiltrating the party and undermining its internal democratic processes. He also cited what he described as illegal recalls of opposition legislators and councillors, which he accused rival factions of orchestrating in cahoots with the ruling party.
His departure left Zimbabwe’s opposition deeply fragmented, with ZANU-PF subsequently strengthening its position in Parliament and local authorities.
Although Chamisa has confirmed that he will have a leadership role in the new political vehicle, details of its structure, name, strategy and launch date have not yet been made public.
He will have to persuade a politically fatigued electorate that the new formation can provide a credible and sustainable alternative to ZANU-PF.
Chamisa has previously faced criticism over his reliance on informal political structures, with critics arguing that weak institutional safeguards can leave opposition parties vulnerable to internal disputes and external interference.
Despite the challenges, Chamisa’s announcement marks a significant shift in Zimbabwe’s political landscape.
His return is expected to trigger renewed political activity within the opposition as parties and political movements begin positioning themselves for the next electoral cycle.
