Opposition Lawmakers Lose Seats in Baffling Recalls
In a bewildering turn of events, fifteen opposition lawmakers in Zimbabwe found themselves stripped of their seats.
They claim this occurred after an impostor, posing as a party official, initiated their recall, and surprisingly, parliament endorsed this action.
Potential for Ruling Party’s Two-Thirds Majority
This move has raised concerns as it could potentially pave the way for by-elections.
These by-elections, if they take place, might provide the ruling ZANU-PF party with the two-thirds majority required to amend the constitution.
Outcry from the Opposition
Prominent opposition party, the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), expressed strong opposition to this development.
Promise Mkwananzi, the party’s spokesperson, stated their refusal to accept such actions that they consider disrespectful to the constitution and democracy.
Legal Challenge by Displaced MPs
On Tuesday, the 15 CCC Members of Parliament (MPs) initiated a legal challenge.
They filed an appeal contesting the decision by the parliamentary speaker, which declared their seats vacant.
This legal move is seen as a crucial step in their fight to regain their parliamentary positions.
The Controversial Letter and Disputed Claims
This political turmoil was triggered by a letter penned by an individual named Sengezo Tshabangu.
Tshabangu claimed to be the CCC’s “interim secretary general” and asserted that the 15 lawmakers were no longer party members. CCC leader Nelson Chamisa promptly rejected the message, emphasizing that Tshabangu was not affiliated with the party, and no official recalls or expulsions had taken place.
Chamisa’s Accusation of Law Violation
Nelson Chamisa, the CCC leader, accused Sengezo Tshabangu of violating the law and committing an act of criminality through his actions. He expressed his concerns about the irregularity of the situation, but despite this, on Monday, the electoral commission received a letter from parliamentary speaker Jacob Mudenda of ZANU-PF, declaring the 15 seats vacant.
Tensions Mount Amid Political Struggles
This case is expected to exacerbate the already high political tensions in Zimbabwe.
These tensions have persisted since the August 23 election, which international observers criticized for falling short of democratic standards.
Emmerson Mnangagwa of ZANU-PF secured victory in the presidential race against Nelson Chamisa, who lost, and the ruling party, while gaining a parliamentary majority, still fell short of the number required to amend the constitution.
CCC’s Allegations of Arrests
The CCC alleges that over a dozen individuals associated with their party, including MPs and councillors, have been arrested on what they consider spurious charges since the election.
This further contributes to the atmosphere of uncertainty and political turmoil in the country.
World News