Chamisa, one of Zimbabwe’s most prominent opposition figures, has delivered a heartfelt message of appreciation to the nation, pledging renewed commitment to the country’s democratic cause and hinting at the development of a fresh political strategy following his dramatic departure from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).
In a deeply personal statement posted on social media and titled “An Appreciation Post,” Chamisa extended his gratitude to millions of Zimbabweans—both at home and in the diaspora—who have stood by him since his first presidential run in 2018. He acknowledged their sacrifices, unwavering support, and resilience through years of state repression, violence, and repeated electoral setbacks.
“You have walked this journey with me… through hope and heartbreak, through resistance and resilience,” he wrote. “Twice, in 2018 and again in 2023, you stood up and emphatically voted for change… but you were temporarily denied the chance.”
Though no longer officially leading a political party or holding public office, Chamisa remains a central figure in Zimbabwe’s fractured opposition. In his statement, he described the current political system as “a tyranny held together by state abuse, repression, and coercion” but insisted that “the seed of change has been sown… the harvest has been delayed, but it cannot be denied.”
The 46-year-old former pastor and lawyer praised ordinary Zimbabweans for their tenacity, singling out citizens who campaigned tirelessly, fundraised on platforms such as Twitter Spaces, and endured intimidation, arrests, or worse.
“Some of you spent sleepless nights raising funds, others knocked on doors, campaigned house to house, volunteered, voted, or shared your voices online. Many were beaten, jailed, or even lost to politically motivated violence,” he wrote. “Your contribution is not unrecorded.”
Chamisa also addressed his decision to leave the CCC earlier this year—a move that sent shockwaves through the country’s political landscape. He explained that the departure was not a retreat, but a calculated move in response to what he called “structural compromise and infiltration” within the party.
“I left CCC, but not the mission,” he explained. “The CCC was simply a vehicle meant to take us to the New Zimbabwe. When that vehicle was hijacked and compromised, it became necessary to step out and prepare a better, cleaner, and more fit-for-purpose vehicle.”
Chamisa Issues Hopeful Signal for ‘Next Zimbabwe’ in Emotional Message to Supporters
This clarification appears to reaffirm his political intentions and quash speculation that he might be stepping away from frontline politics. Instead, Chamisa signalled a reorganisation of efforts and hinted at the formation of a new political outfit, saying: “I am not idle. I am consulting. I am building. I am assembling a new strategy and a citizens’ team that will carry and pivot this nation unto greatness.”
Chamisa’s words come at a time of growing public dissatisfaction in Zimbabwe, amid economic hardship, deepening political polarisation, and a sense of democratic stagnation. His message has already sparked renewed energy among his base, with many supporters interpreting his statement as a prelude to the unveiling of a new political movement.
Throughout the post, Chamisa consistently referenced his long-standing mantra—“The Next Zimbabwe”—which he used as a symbolic vision for a new democratic dispensation. He also repeated the phrase “God is in it,” an expression he has previously used to invoke divine purpose in the national transformation agenda.
Speaking directly to both Zimbabweans and the international community, Chamisa thanked those who continue to support the democratic cause in the country. “We have received inexhaustible floods of support. The solidarity has been overwhelming. The desire for change is not only national, it is global,” he said.
As Zimbabwe’s political opposition continues to grapple with fragmentation and leadership uncertainty, Chamisa’s return to the public stage—though cautious and still short of formal structure—has reignited hope among many citizens for a credible and organised alternative to ZANU-PF.
Chamisa concluded his message on a note of hope and perseverance. “The hope is indestructible. The promise can never be compromised. The people have already won in spirit. Now we must complete the journey. Zimbabwe shall be the land of the free, great and prosperous.”
The statement is already being widely shared across social media platforms, with activists and analysts describing it as a significant moment that could mark the beginning of a new chapter in Zimbabwe’s long and often turbulent struggle for democracy. As the nation watches closely, Chamisa’s next moves are likely to shape the future of opposition politics in Zimbabwe.
Source- Bulawayo24
