Zimbabweans in the diaspora warm up to Chamisa’s political comeback
Zimbabwe’s body politick has been reignited following the reemergence of opposition activist Nelson Chamisa, whose return to the public arena has sparked debate, mobilisation and speculation both at home and abroad.
Although the 48-year-old politician-cum-advocate has not formally outlined his political roadmap, his trademark “strategic ambiguity” has unsettled the ruling Zanu PF, prompting heightened scrutiny of civic, political and social groupings perceived to be aligned with his renewed push to remove President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government.
Despite the State apparatus’ watchful eye, sporadic meetings in support of Chamisa’s return have continued across several countries, signalling sustained enthusiasm for a possible challenge to the ruling party’s “2030 mantra” agitating for Mnangagwa to stay in office beyond his constitutionally-permissible two five-year terms, which end in 2028.
Diaspora-based gatherings have drawn a broad cross-section of supporters, including members of different political formations, human rights defenders, and representatives from gay, lesbian and transgender communities, many of whom argue that a Chamisa return offers renewed hope for democratic reform, inclusion and constitutionalism in Zimbabwe.
In Ontario, Canada, a meeting led by political activist Caroline Nyamaswe brought together Zimbabweans, who described Chamisa’s comeback as a catalyst for a “new beginning”
Similar sentiments were echoed in the United Kingdom, where Muslim and gay rights activists, including Dylan Abudullah Muriha and Xolisani Masuku, voiced deep concern over the current regime’s intolerance over their sexuality and public advocacy.
In the North East of England, a separate group led by Xoliso Sithole declared its unwavering support, stating that they would “stand and fall with Chamisa”.
Participants reportedly cheered and ululated upon receiving confirmation that what they described as “the moment for change” had arrived.
One of the strongest delegations involved in recent mobilisation included Taisekwa Ruth Matipa, Patricia Ncube, Petty Ziramba, Ettar Patience Mhlanga, Wellington Mupepe, Melbar Dick,, Patson Muzuwa, Gladys Kajawo, Ntombizodwa Lupale and Cretah Mupfudze. Others included Michelle Rwatiringa. Esther Nduna, Mollin Muteto, Tatenda Shumba, Claudius Maxini, Cleopatra Dinha, Pamela Magwizi, Elizabeth Chitengo among many others.
However, the momentum has been clouded by emerging legal developments. The wave of mobilisation has coincided with a newly lodged court case by Talent Rusere, who has publicly alleged irregularities involving the funding of the former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) through online platforms such as GoFundMe. These revelations have reportedly intensified State surveillance on individuals and groups perceived to be backing Chamisa’s latest political manoeuvres.
As Zimbabwe watches closely, Chamisa’s calculated moves continue to fuel anticipation, anxiety and renewed political engagement-raising the question of whether his return marks yet another beginning of a decisive challenge to the country’s entrenched political order. *_-NewZimbabwe_*
