“To Serve ZANU PF?” Opposition Division Highlighted As CCC Senator Is Sworn In

By Advent Shoko

Harare – Honourable Itayi Mwanza of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) was sworn in as a Senator in the Upper House on 10 February 2026, officially assuming her duties “in service of the people and the nation,” according to Parliament. However, the ceremony was not without controversy. Former CCC spokesperson Gift “Ostallos” Siziba sparked debate with his blunt remark that also exposed divisions in the CCC:

“To serve ZANU PF!”

His comment underscores lingering divisions within the opposition party, formed in 2022 under Nelson Chamisa, who has since left, citing infiltration and internal strife.

The timing of Mwanza’s swearing-in comes ahead of the CCC Members of Parliament’s first caucus meeting of the Year scheduled for 12 February 2026. Lawmakers will discuss Constitutional Amendment No. 3, tabled in Cabinet the same day Mwanza was sworn in. The caucus will be addressed by CCC Acting Secretary-General and Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Senator Sengezo Tshabangu, who is expected to steer discussions on party unity and legislative strategy.

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The incident highlights not only the challenges of maintaining cohesion in a young opposition party but also the delicate balancing act between parliamentary duties and internal politics as Zimbabwe approaches a year of heightened political activity.

Since 2023, multiple factions have emerged within the CCC, yet Senator  Tshabangu has consolidated influence, successfully recalling councillors and MPs while making key appointments. Critics, however, allege he may be acting as a ZANU PF mole, advancing the ruling party’s interests within the opposition.

With Constitutional Amendment No. 3 proposing to extend President Mnangagwa’s term to 2030, the CCC faces a critical test. The party is widely seen as being in disarray ahead of the 2028 elections, raising concerns it could lose further ground. Some observers argue that the Tshabangu-led CCC may even tacitly endorse ZANU PF’s agenda, including the postponement of elections, fearing voter backlash for having “betrayed the people’s will” in 2023 by recalling elected officials, including Gift Ostallos Siziba. The coming months will reveal whether the opposition can restore credibility and present a united front.