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Joseph Madzimure-Senior Reporter
IT never rains, but pours for CCC leader Mr Nelson Chamisa’s clan after three of its family members lost in the just ended harmonised elections.
While the CCC lost in both the presidential and parliamentary elections, the defeat was probably more galling for Mr Chamisa.
His young brother Mr Starman Chamisa lost as a parliamentary candidate in Mbare to Cde Martin Matinyanya while his young sister Ms Fungai Chamisa also lost to Royi Bila in Chiredzi North.
Never mind the family losses, Mr Chamisa has been accused of working towards the creation of a Chamisa dynasty by dragging his siblings into politics through that party’s undemocratic and highly contested candidate selection process.
The defeat not only marks a political setback for Mr Chamisa, but also highlights the rejection of nepotism by the electorate.
An analyst and Researcher Mr Raymond Magombedze said the election results revealed a clear message from the voters.
“It’s an expression of their refusal to support political dynasties and the importance of meritocracy in the country’s leadership.
“The election results showcased the voters’ growing discontent towards political dynasties and nepotism, as both Chamisa’s siblings, Starman and Fungai lost in their respective electoral battles in Mbare and Chiredzi respectively,” said Mr Magombedze.
Another political analyst Mr Regedzai Makata weighed in saying Mr Chamisa imposed his family members during the selection process, a move which was resisted by the electorate.
“The defeat exposes Mr Chamisa’s weakening grip and raises questions about his ability to connect with the grassroots.
“The people’s clear message in the 2023 elections manifests a desire for leaders chosen based on their abilities, experience, and commitment to serve the nation rather than relying solely on family connections,” said Mr Makata.
The analysts said in Zanu PF, President Mnangagwa has been connecting with the people through his deliverables.
President Mnangagwa has been fulfilling his electoral promises and it comes as no surprise that people voted overwhelmingly for him.
“Starman’s loss to Cde Matinyanya in Mbare not only reinforces the diminishing faith in Chamisa and his CCC party but also underscores the growing support for the ruling party in areas that were once CCC strongholds. Additionally, Fungai Chamisa’s dismal loss in Chiredzi depicts a lack of voter confidence in Nelson as a potential leader,” said an analyst.
Political analyst Mr Tongai Dana said the defeat of CCC and its leader Mr Chamisa across various provinces sends a strong message about the changing political landscape in Zimbabwe.
“It demonstrates a shift in public sentiment where people demand deliverables over lip service. This election outcome highlights the importance of meritocracy, transparency, and genuine dedication to public service as qualities expected of political leaders,” said Mr Dana.
Zanu PF candidates, he said, were more appealing to the electorate than the Chamisa family.
“That is why it is very important to come to the people with hard evidence of your success stories, not just promises written in a manifesto document,” said Mr Dana.
Mr Chamisa’s losses in Masvingo province, his home town and the defeat of his siblings, is an indication that the electorate has voiced its objection to nepotism.
Online Reporter