A faction of the Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) led by Welshman Ncube claims it is the legitimate party capable of making binding decisions.
This assertion comes amid internal disputes with two other CCC factions: one led by Tshabangu, the “interim secretary-general,” and another loyal to former party leader Nelson Chamisa, led by Jameson Timba, the “Chief Administrator.”
The Ncube-led faction purportedly suspended Tshabangu on Thursday, just hours after High Court judge Justice Neville Wamambo ruled that Tshabangu had no authority to make changes in Parliament.
The ruling was based on Tshabangu’s alleged violation of a previous High Court order (HH 652/23), initially secured by Timba’s faction, which barred Tshabangu from making recalls pending the resolution of cases HC 6872/23 and HH 652/23.
Timba accused Ncube of exploiting his party’s ongoing legal battles against Tshabangu, arguing that Ncube’s reliance on cases initiated by his faction proved they were the only legal and legitimate authority for the CCC MPs and councillors.
However, in an interview with <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200036851/tshabangu-labels-suspension-a-sideshow-null-void">NewsDay</a> on Friday, Ncube’s spokesperson Willias Madzimure dismissed Timba’s claims, asserting that Ncube’s faction is the bona fide CCC. Said Madzimure:
<blockquote>
The CCC has noted with concern a statement issued by Jameson Timba, in which he purported to be the interim party leader and chief administrator of the CCC party.
We categorically dismiss and refute the claims made in that statement. There is no position of party leader and administrator under the CCC party constitution.
For the record, Nelson Chamisa resigned as president of the CCC party over twelve months ago and was replaced by acting president Welshman Ncube, whose position has been confirmed by the latest High Court ruling.
The High Court decision, the day before yesterday confirmed that there is only one CCC, led by acting president Professor Welshman Ncube.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Summary: A group called CCC has a leader named Welshman Ncube who says they are the real CCC. There are other groups within CCC led by different people like Tshabangu and Nelson Chamisa's loyalists. Ncube suspended Tshabangu after a court ruling said Tshabangu couldn't make changes in Parliament. Nelson Chamisa's group says they are the real CCC, but Ncube's spokesperson says Ncube is the actual leader. The court ruling confirmed Ncube as the leader of the only legitimate CCC. There is a lot of confusion and disagreement within the CCC party.

"There Is Only One CCC, Led By Welshman Ncube"

Jameson Timba, leader of one Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) faction, accused his former colleague, Welshman Ncube, of capitalising on his party’s ongoing legal battles against self-proclaimed interim secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu.
On Wednesday, High Court judge Justice Neville Wamambo granted Ncube’s faction an interdict preventing Tshabangu from making parliamentary appointments.
The ruling hinged on Tshabangu’s alleged violation of a previous High Court order (HH 652/23) which, initially secured by Timba’s faction, barred Tshabangu from making recalls pending the resolution of cases HC 6872/23 and HH 652/23.
Timba told NewsDay that Ncube’s court action relied on cases initiated by his faction, saying he had not pursued both cases because he had been in jail. Said Timba:
<blockquote>
As CCC, we are still studying the judgment. What I seem to get for now is that Professor Welshman Ncube went to court purporting to represent the CCC and based his challenge on an interdict we secured for our party against Tshabangu.
This matter confirms the position we have always held that the only legal and legitimate authority for the CCC MPs and councillors is the CCC led by president Nelson Chamisa, which sponsored the candidates, for which I am currently the interim leader.
</blockquote>
Timba said the CCC’s citizens national assembly shall meet soon to deliberate on Justice Wamambo’s ruling and other issues affecting the party. He said:
<blockquote>
The judgment, in its current form and context, restores authority to CCC and the citizens national assembly shall meet soon to deliberate on this and other issues affecting the party.
In this regard, we will be pursuing our two cases in HH 652/23 and HC 6872/23 for the benefit of our members, MPs and councillors.
</blockquote>
While not denying that Timba’s previous court applications formed the basis of their latest action, Ncube-led CCC spokesperson Willias Madzimure implied that both Timba and Ncube were part of the same party. He said:
<blockquote>
Timba, as a member of the CCC party and an interested party, had a right and duty to protect the party.
He did well by approaching the courts. We appreciate what the party gained.
However, this was ignored by Tshabangu, and the same CCC party leadership had to approach the courts again. This must be celebrated.
Meanwhile, Ncube on Thursday announced Tshabangu’s suspension from the CCC pending a disciplinary hearing.
In a statement, the faction said Tshabangu had ceased to be the party’s interim secretary-general or leader of the opposition in the Senate and Parliament but would keep his position as Senator for Matabeleland North Province.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Two leaders in CCC fighting for power. Timba accuses Ncube of using legal battles to gain power. Court ruling gives Ncube's faction control. Timba says he's still leader and will keep fighting. Ncube suspends Tshabangu. Both Timba and Ncube fighting for control of CCC. Members affected by power struggle. CCC to meet and discuss court ruling. Ncube's faction gains power after court ruling. Timba vows to keep fighting for his faction.

Timba Slams Ncube In CCC Internal Power Play

There was confusion within the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) faction led by Jameson Timba over whether its councillors should attend the Zimbabwe Local Government Association (ZILGA) annual meeting, which was graced by President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
The meeting, held in Harare on Tuesday last week, was attended by councillors from all 92 local authorities in Zimbabwe.
However, CCC provincial administrators reportedly blocked party councillors from attending, arguing that the event was affiliated with ZANU PF.
According to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200035744/confusion-rocks-ccc-over-ed-programme">NewsDay</a> sources, several councillors pleaded with party leaders to allow them to attend, pointing out that they had already received allowances from their respective local authorities.
In a last-minute reversal, acting party administrator Lesley Mukurazhizha lifted the ban, allowing CCC councillors to attend the event. Many councillors arrived late as a result.
In a communique to councillors dated November 26, 2024, seen by NewsDay, Mukurazhizha clarified that the event fell within the operational framework of the local councils, thus justifying attendance. It reads in part:
<blockquote>
An appeal by some councillors clarifying the objectives and intent of the programme was received and reviewed and it was noted that such meetings have taken place in the past with our full participation…
That the intended programme is different from the indoctrination at the Herbert Chitepo School of Ideology, which your leadership had feared from the onset.
</blockquote>
CCC spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi told NewsDay that the issue stemmed from an internal miscommunication, which was subsequently clarified. Said Mkwananzi:
<blockquote>
We have a standing resolution that bars our councillors from attending all programmes that are done under the auspices of the Herbert Chitepo School of Ideology, not all other traditional programmes that have always been done under the Local Government ministry, the Urban Councils Act and the Constitution. This particular programme fell within the purview of the latter.
Councillors linked factions led CCC faction led by Sengezo Tshabanngu and Welshman Ncube attended the event.
</blockquote>
The Timba-led CCC has in the past prevented its councillors from attending ZANU PF events that were presented as national programmes.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Confusion arose within the CCC party about whether its councillors should go to a meeting with the President. Some CCC leaders said no, but later allowed them to attend. They were late as a result. The party clarified that the meeting was okay to attend, not like other events they avoid. The issue was a mix-up, but now it's clear. Some CCC councillors went to the meeting anyway. Timba's CCC has stopped councillors from going to ZANU PF events before.

Confusion Within CCC Over Councillors' Attendance Of ZILGA Meeting

Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) faction leader Jameson Timba and 34 party activists were handed wholly suspended sentences on Wednesday, November 27.
The group, which spent over five months in custody, was last week convicted of participating in an unlawful gathering.
Magistrate Collet Ncube sentenced Timba and Jaison Kautsa to two years imprisonment, wholly suspended for five years, on the condition that they don’t commit an offence involving an illegal gathering with the intent to promote public violence.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed the sentences in a statement. Said the NPA:
<blockquote>
Jameson Timba and 33 others were sentenced today at the Harare Magistrates’ Court. Jameson Timba and Jason Kunatsa were sentenced to 2 years imprisonment wholly suspended for 5 years on condition the accused persons do not commit an offence involving unlawful gathering with intent to promote public violence for which they will be sentenced to imprisonment without the option of a fine. The rest were sentenced as follows:
Accused 12, 29, 31, 34, 36, 54, 57, 60, 65 &amp; 74
12 months imprisonment wholly suspended for 5 years on the same conditions as above.
Accused 9, 13, 14, 62, 63, 64, 75, 76
14 months imprisonment wholly suspended for 5 years on the same conditions as above.
Accused 26, 28, 38, 39, 42, 43, 48, 52, 53, 55, 56, 59, 66, 77
16 months imprisonment wholly suspended on the same conditions as above.
Accused 40
6 months imprisonment wholly suspended on the same conditions as above.
</blockquote>
In his ruling, Ncube said most of the convicts were poor people while some of them were breadwinners, and first-time offenders deserving of a second chance, hence it was in the interest of justice to give a wholly suspended sentence. He said:
<blockquote>
The court believes that since they are first offenders, they should be given another chance. Many of them struggle to raise even the fine, and most are breadwinners with unstable sources of income. Their continued detention would only burden their families.
</blockquote>
Timba and 79 others were arrested at his Avondale house on a charge of holding an illegal gathering with intent to cause public violence.
Their party, however, maintained that they were commemorating the Day of the African Child which falls on 16 June.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Jameson Timba and 34 activists from CCC were given suspended sentences for joining an unlawful gathering. Timba and Jaison Kautsa got 2 years, suspended for 5 years. Other male activists got 16 months suspended, and females got 12 months suspended. The judge said most of them were poor, first-time offenders and breadwinners needing a second chance. They were arrested during a gathering but claimed they were celebrating the Day of the African Child. The judge didn't want to burden their families with more trouble, so he decided to give them another chance.

Jameson Timba And 34 CCC Activists Receive Wholly Suspended Sentences

A Harare magistrate on Monday, November 27, postponed the sentencing of CCC faction leader Jameson Timba and 34 of his supporters, who were convicted last week for participating in an unlawful gathering.
The group, arrested on June 16 while commemorating the International Day of the African Child had initially faced charges of disorderly conduct. However, they were acquitted of that charge after the conclusion of the State’s case.
On Friday, Magistrate Collet Ncube, presiding over the Harare Circuit Court, acquitted 28 other defendants due to insufficient evidence linking them to the gathering.
While Timba and the 34 others were scheduled for sentencing on Monday, the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party announced that the sentencing has now been rescheduled to Wednesday, November 27, 2024. The party said:
<blockquote>
Senator Jameson Timba and other members of the #Avondale78, who were unjustly found guilty, have had their sentence postponed again.
The initial sentence was set for today, but the new sentence date is now Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at 1115 hours in Court 11.
This latest development appears to be a deliberate act by the regime to further persecute innocent individuals who desire a better Zimbabwe, where the constitution is highly respected.
The postponement will extend their unjust detention to 164 days.
</blockquote>
In delivering the verdict last week, Magistrate Ncube said that while a meeting had undoubtedly taken place, the number of attendees posed a significant risk of public disturbance, thus justifying the conviction. Ruled the magistrate:
<blockquote>
The presence of those gathered at 6 Downey Road cannot be overlooked. While the first accused (Timba) claimed he merely provided accommodation and was unaware of the situation’s developments, it is a fact that he facilitated the gathering at his premises.
</blockquote>
Prosecutor Lancelot Mutsokoti presented evidence that on June 16 this year, around 2 PM, police received information about an unsanctioned gathering at Jameson Timba’s house. It is believed the meeting was intended to plan unlawful demonstrations in Harare.
Upon arriving at the location, police reported hearing a large amount of noise and observed a sizable gathering.
When the suspects allegedly began throwing stones at a police vehicle, causing minor damage, reinforcements were called in.
To disperse the crowd, police used tear gas, leading to the arrest of the suspects.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A group of people were arrested for gathering without permission, but most of them were let go due to lack of evidence. The leader, Jameson Timba, and 34 others were found guilty and were supposed to be sentenced but it got postponed. The party they belong to thinks this is unfair and a way for the government to be mean to people who want a better country. The court said there was a meeting that could cause trouble, so they were convicted. Police were called to the meeting, and some people threw stones at their car. Now the sentencing is delayed until 2024.

Magistrate Postpones Sentencing Of Timba, 34 CCC Activists

Jameson Timba, the interim Chief Administrator of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party and 34 of his supporters have been convicted for participating in an unlawful gathering.
The group, who has been in custody since their arrest on 16 June, the International Day of the African Child, was also initially charged with disorderly conduct. However, they were acquitted of that charge after the conclusion of the State’s case.
On Friday, Magistrate Collet Ncube, presiding over the Harare Circuit Court, acquitted 28 other defendants, citing insufficient evidence to link them to the gathering.
The convicted individuals, including Timba, are now awaiting sentencing on Monday. In delivering the verdict, Magistrate Ncube said that while a meeting had undoubtedly taken place, the number of attendees posed a significant risk of public disturbance, thus justifying the conviction. Ruled the magistrate:
<blockquote>
The presence of those gathered at 6 Downey Road cannot be overlooked. While the first accused (Timba) claimed he merely provided accommodation and was unaware of the situation’s developments, it is a fact that he facilitated the gathering at his premises.
</blockquote>
Prosecutor Lancelot Mutsokoti presented evidence that on June 16 this year, around 2 PM, police received information about an unsanctioned gathering at Jameson Timba’s house. It is believed the meeting was intended to plan unlawful demonstrations in Harare.
Upon arriving at the location, police reported hearing a large amount of noise and observed a sizable gathering.
When the suspects allegedly began throwing stones at a police vehicle, causing minor damage, reinforcements were called in.
To disperse the crowd, police used tear gas, leading to the arrest of the suspects.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Jameson Timba and 34 people from the CCC party were found guilty for joining an illegal meeting. Some of them were charged with disorderly conduct but were cleared. 28 others were acquitted due to lack of evidence. They are now waiting for their punishment. The meeting was said to be planning protests. Police came and found a big group causing trouble. They threw stones at the police and were arrested. More information can be found on the Pindula News website.

Jameson Timba, 34 CCC Activists Convicted

The long-awaited judgment for Jameson Timba and 66 other Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activists was on Monday postponed again due to the absence of the presiding magistrate, Collet Ncube.
Magistrate Donald Ndirowei said that the case would be adjourned until Friday, November 15, 2024.
Timba and his co-accused were arrested in June while commemorating the Day of the African Child in Harare and were charged with participating in an unlawful gathering.
They have been denied bail on three separate occasions and have remained in detention throughout the trial.
While the trial concluded last month, the activists continue to be incarcerated in conditions described by lawyers and human rights defenders as “inhabitable.”
Darlington Chigumbu, who is Budiriro South and the CCC Secretary for Information and Publicity, said:
<blockquote>
They should not be in jail in the first place. We are deeply disappointed by the drawn-out nature of this case. Justice delayed is justice denied.
They know these individuals did not commit a crime, so they are punishing them. It is politically motivated.
We remain hopeful that on Friday, the judgment will free our colleagues so that they can go home and reconnect with their families. They have been in jail for far too long.
</blockquote>
Initially, there were 80 suspects in the case. However, 12 of the suspects, including Timba’s son Sean, were discharged at the conclusion of the State’s case.
The entire group was ultimately acquitted of the charge of disorderly conduct.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The judge didn't show up to give a ruling for Jameson Timba and CCC activists. The case was postponed to November 15. Timba and others were arrested for being in a gathering. They were denied bail and have been in jail since June. The trial ended last month, but they are still in jail. A CCC member said they are innocent and the case is politically motivated. They hope for a fair judgment on Friday. Initially, there were 80 suspects, but 12 were already discharged. Finally, the whole group was cleared of disorderly conduct charges.

Harare Magistrate In No Show To Deliver Ruling On Timba, CCC Activists' Case

The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party, led by Jameson Timba, faced a setback in its bid to claim ZiG 22.1 million under the Political Parties (Finance) Act after a judge ruled that their application was not urgent, reported <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/timba-ccc-suffers-setback-in-bid-to-stop-political-parties-payment-to-rival-factions/">ZimLive</a>.
The CCC party is split into three factions: Timba’s faction, Welshman Ncube’s faction, and Sengezo Tshabangu’s faction.
All three factions have written to Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, demanding the funds due to the CCC after it emerged as the main opposition in the elections held in August last year.
Political party funds are allocated based on electoral performance, with ZANU PF receiving the largest share of ZiG 47.9 million.
Timba’s CCC filed a High Court application on September 29, citing the justice minister, finance minister, and Tshabangu as respondents.
The CCC led by Ncube later applied for a joinder, which was granted without opposition.
Timba’s faction requested the High Court to prevent Ziyambi and Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube from disbursing the funds to Tshabangu or anyone acting on his behalf.
Justice Faith Mushure ruled that Timba’s CCC failed to establish the urgency of their application.
Timba had written multiple letters to Ziyambi since October 16 last year, requesting that the CCC allocation be deposited in a specific bank account.
The party acted out of concern following media reports that the government intended to pay the money to Tshabangu, who claimed to be the CCC’s secretary general after last year’s elections.
Ziyambi ignored Timba’s letters, contrary to legal requirements.
In her ruling, Justice Mushure noted that the first applicant (Timba CCC) took no action to assert their right from October 16, 2023, until September 27, 2024.
The judge ruled that the applicants cannot claim the cause of action that arose on September 19, 2024, due to the respondent’s (Ziyambi) previous non-responses.
She said the applicants waited months for responses and only gave an ultimatum at the last minute.
The judge found there was an undue delay and lack of urgency on the part of the applicants.
The judge rejected claims of irreparable harm, stating they were unsubstantiated and that the right to recover the money remains open.
The urgency of the applicants’ claim was deemed self-created.
As a result, Timba’s urgent chamber application for an interdict was struck off the roll of urgent matters for lack of urgency, with costs.
Ncube opposed the application, arguing his party was the legitimate CCC entitled to the funds and that the application was not urgent.
The judge concurred, ruling the application lacked urgency and was self-created.
The ruling allows ministers to distribute the funds to any of the three factions at their discretion.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The news is about a party called CCC who wanted money from the government but were told they had to wait. The party CCC is split into three groups with different leaders. They all asked for the money they thought they deserved after an election. The court said the first group of CCC didn't ask for the money quickly so they can't get it now. They also said the other groups can get the money if the government wants to give it to them. The court also said CCC leaders didn't prove they needed the money urgently.

High Court Rejects Timba's Urgent Application To Block CCC Funds Disbursement To Rivals

Three factions of the Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) party are embroiled in a struggle for control over funds allocated by the Treasury under the Political Parties (Finance) Act.
The ruling ZANU PF party received the largest share, with approximately ZiG$48 million, while the CCC was awarded just over ZiG$22 million.
One CCC faction, led by Jameson Timba, has filed an urgent High Court application seeking an order to prevent the Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Ziyambi Ziyambi, from disbursing the funds until the party’s leadership disputes are resolved.
In response, Welshman Ncube, the leader of another CCC faction, has applied to be joined as a party to the proceedings, arguing that he has a real and substantial interest in the matter but was omitted from the initial application.
Meanwhile, Sengezo Tshabangu, the leader of a third CCC faction, has filed a notice of opposition challenging Ncube’s claim to be the acting president of the party.
Tshabangu argues that Ncube’s claims are baseless and not supported by any facts. His notice reads in part:
<blockquote>
The deponent is not the acting president of the applicant. He has not attached any annexure to substantiate his averment.
It is trite that in motion proceedings, an applicant stands and falls on his or her pleadings of the facts of his or her case.
No facts have been pleaded generally, and specifically with reference to the first applicant’s constitution, same attached on page 101 if the Applicants application, to support the deponent’s averment that he is in fact the acting president of the applicant.
On the version of the deponent, and in particular paragraph 27, the deponent alleges that he became acting president on account of the resignation of the then president, Mr Nelson Chamisa.
He does not aver that there was an extraordinary Congress of the applicant as peremptorily required by the 1ts applicant’s constitution, and by law.
In the result, and again on his version, the deponent is not, and has never been the lawful acting president of the first applicant.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Three groups in the CCC party are fighting over money given by the government. ZANU PF got ZiG$48 million while the CCC got ZiG$22 million. Jameson Timba wants to stop the money from being given out until their leadership issues are fixed. Welshman Ncube also wants to be part of the decision because he thinks he has a say in the matter. Sengezo Tshabangu is against Ncube saying he is the president of the party. They are all fighting over who should control the money.

CCC Factions Fight Over Money

Ndapuwa Shaun Timba, the son of Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) interim leader Jameson Timba, has been acquitted of disorderly conduct charges by Harare magistrate Collet Ncube.
Shaun Timba was reportedly a victim of circumstance, having been arrested alongside numerous CCC activists at his father’s home in Avondale, Harare, on June 16.
At the time of the arrest, it was reported that Shaun had visited his father to deliver a gift when police arrived and rounded up everyone present.
On September 4, the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) said that despite Shaun’s acquittal, he missed the deadline to begin his studies abroad on Monday and has been forced to defer his educational pursuits. The ZLHR said:
<blockquote>
In Zimbabwe, teenagers such as Ndapuwa Shaun Timba, the son of Senator Jameson Timba, have to go through unjustified persecution for three months for an offence, which they did not commit, only to be acquitted at the close of the prosecution case.
As a result of the persecution and prosecution, Shaun missed the deadline for commencing his studies outside Zimbabwe on Monday and has had to defer his education exploits. Magistrate Collet Ncube acquitted Shaun today.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the other CCC activists, including Jameson Timba, were also acquitted today by Magistrate Ncube.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Shaun Timba, son of CCC leader Jameson Timba, was found not guilty of disorderly conduct. He was arrested with other activists at his father's home but was innocent. He missed starting his studies abroad due to the case. The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights said Shaun was unfairly persecuted and now he has to delay his education. Shaun and other activists were acquitted by Magistrate Ncube.

Shaun Timba Found Not Guilty Of Disorderly Conduct

<h3>Statement by Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi on the arrest of party activists, corruption, and legitimacy:</h3>
<blockquote>
Zimbabwe faces a deepening political crisis characterized by narrowing democratic space, arrests, political persecution and weaponization of the law.
At the center of the crisis is; tragic leadership failure, political and institutional illegitimacy, corruption and moral decadence.
In the advent of the SADC visit, it is our fervent hope that SADC will live up to its SEOM report and help Zimbabwe resolve its electoral dispute in order to forestall the legitimacy challenges that continue to hinder political progress and economic transformation in the country, with adverse effects in the region.
<h2>Politicized detention of Senator Jameson Timba and Avondale 78</h2>
As we mark 40 days since Senator Timba and 78 others have been detained without bail, it is imperative to restate the unjustified circumstances of their arrest and brutalization.
Hon Timba and others were arrested on the 16th of June 2024, a day recognized worldwide as the day of the African child and which our movement has historically and traditionally commemorated.
Furthermore, they were conducting a private commemoration at a private space, at Hon. Timba’s residence to be specific.
They were not in breach of any law nor a threat to peace and public order. Yet, the police, without provocation, brutally pounced on them, assaulting them with button sticks and teargas before arresting and denying them bail.
The excessive use of force in this case highlights the regime’s unnecessary fears, insecurity and paranoia and is unacceptable in what is meant to be an independent and democratic Zimbabwe.
Since their inhuman and degrading treatment, Senator Timba and others were arrested and remain in political detention, denied their right to bail and living in squalid conditions.
Several members of the detained sustained varied degrees of injuries, emanating from police beatings and brutality.
For example, Tambudzai Makokoro sustained a fractured leg which has gone septical and continues to pour out puss with a possibility of amputation if no urgent medical intervention is given.
Three others were beaten and their ear drums burst and no medical care has been afforded serve for administration of basic pain killers, a far cry from the specialized medical treatment they urgently require. 
Maureen Dinha is detained with her one and a half years old baby, exposed to unhygienic prison conditions.
As if that is not enough, Maureen lost her other child and was denied the right to go and bury him, ironically reminiscent of the Ian Smith regime that denied Robert Mugabe and many others to go and bury their loved ones.
Nicole Chabata, a Form Four student and O level candidate has continually been denied bail to allow her to prepare for her examinations.
Another inmate, who already had a natural disability was heavily assaulted and dislocated his hand and may end up with a double disability, the latter being police induced.
In response, the party has continued to organise and coordinate support and solidarity to the affected through court solidarity, daily upkeep of the detained, medical and legal support, counselling, prison visits and sustaining political pressure for their release and their case to remain on the local and international agenda.
Citizens have also done commendable work by speaking out against the unjustified arrests and organizing support and solidarity to the victim’s families, most of whom are left with no breadwinner and have to fend for and sustain themselves.
Citizens, advocates of justice, members of the diplomatic corps and members of the public at large are reminded that their trial commences on Monday the 29th of July 2024.
You are all implored and called upon to turn out in your numbers to offer your support and solidarity and to send a message to the government that weaponisation of the law to punish and silence legitimate opposition leaders and human rights activists should and will not be a part of our political culture.
In short, this is a call for local, regional and international solidarity to voice out our disagreement against the use of the law and justice system to prosecute political opponents.
Significantly, it is worth noting that the arrest of Senator Timba and others is not the only case of political arrest and persecution since the August 2023 disputed harmonized elections.
A few days ago, more than 60 activists of the Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU) were brutally and violently arrested including their National President Emmanuel Sitima.
The statics below highlight the escalating and disturbing trend of political persecution, including 3 rape victims in Muzarabani, and displacements including evictions by Chiefs of villagers in Muzarabani for supporting the alternative.
Presently, the top leadership of the alternative is under siege, either in detention, in hiding or one form of threat or the other.
Many bear under threat of arrest and abduction for merely being members of the alternative. Several leaders report receiving anonymous calls threatening them.
Church leaders who organized and submitted a petition in Zambia have been threatened and forced to flee their homes.
<h2>Rampant Corruption, Rent-Seeking, Plunder and Pilferage</h2>
The government of Zimbabwe has been the chief perpetrator of corruption, rent-seeking and plunder of state resources, awarding lucrative contracts to themselves, their kith and kin and their cronies and proxies.
This is the root cause of the continued failure and regression of the national economy, pushing millions of Citizens into abject poverty and starvation.
The partisan distribution of national resources extends to food distribution which has been highly politicized and weaponized against those perceived to hold opposition views.
A prominent example is the late Mboneni Ncube’s family who have been repeatedly been denied food. 
Mboneni was brutally murdered by suspected ZANU PF activists at an opposition campaign rally in Kwekwe.
Several high-profile corruption cases have been reported and exposed but no arrests have been made.
Mr. Wicknell Chivhayo who has been named in several high-profile scandals remains not only scot-free but boastful that nothing will happen to him.
We continue to vehemently denounce corruption and call on members of the public to report, expose and denounce corruption whenever and wherever it raises its ugly head.
<h2>Political and Institutional Illegitimacy</h2>
It is common cause that the August 2023 harmonized elections where fraudulently flawed and did not produce a legitimate and outright winner. This is acknowledged by all election observer missions, including SADC.
This means that the government currently in place in Zimbabwe is illegitimate and not properly constituted in terms of the laws of the country, it is a defacto government.
This is further exacerbated by the unlawful recall of our parliamentary and local government representatives elected on the same disputed elections. This has delegitimized the current parliament.
We insist on the reinstatement of our lawfully elected officials and the removal of the imposters imposed by Mr. Tshabangu and others in connivance with ZANU PF.
The weaponization and capture of the judiciary and the disputed Presidency of Mr. Mnangagwa means that Zimbabwe now suffers political and institutional illegitimacy.
The three key institutions of the state, namely the executive, the judiciary and the legislature have been bastardized and delegitimized.
It is our considered view that the coming of SADC into Zimbabwe is a welcome and rare opportunity to help foster a political solution to the Zimbabwe’s challenges, restore legitimacy and avert the deteriorating political situation.
The issue of the disputed elections ought to be foremost on the SADC agenda with a view to facilitate dialogue and ultimately a political settlement between the two contending Presidential candidates namely Advocate Nelson Chamisa and Emmerson Mnangagwa. There is no other alternative to this dialogue.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The Citizens' Coalition for Change wants Senator Timba and others released from prison because they were arrested unfairly. People are speaking out against the unjust arrests, even supporting the families of the victims. The government is accused of corruption and unfair distribution of resources. The group believes the government is not legitimate and wants a new election. They are asking for help from SADC to solve Zimbabwe's problems. The group wants dialogue between Nelson Chamisa and Emmerson Mnangagwa to find a solution. The situation in Zimbabwe is getting worse, and the group hopes things will improve with international help.

CCC's Mkwananzi Calls For Release Of Timba, Pins Hope On SADC Summit

Heal Zimbabwe Trust (HZT), a local human rights organisation has condemned the denial of bail for over 70 members and supporters of the Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) political party by the High Court in Harare on Wednesday.
Former Member of Parliament Jameson Timba, who took over as CCC interim leader after Nelson Chamisa quit in January, was arrested along with other party youth in Harare for holding an unauthorised gathering.
On Wednesday, 17 July, High Court Judge Justice Munamato Mutevedzi dismissed an appeal filed by the 74 CCC activists against the denial of bail by Magistrate Ruth Moyo.
In total, 78 people were arrested at Timba’s House on 16 June but Timba’s son, Ndapuwa Shaun Timba, was granted US$100 bail.
Two of the accused were below the age of 18 years and were therefore released into the custody of their guardians, while another accused individual showed signs of potential mental health challenges.
In accordance with Section 26 of the Mental Health Act, the court ordered this person to remain in custody pending an examination by two doctors to assess their mental capacity.
In a statement, HZT called for the immediate release of the CCC activists, saying their detention has the signs of political persecution and we call for their release. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
We note with concern the dismissal of the bail appeal for the 78 Citizen Coalition for Change supporters by the High Court in Harare today.
The 78 were arrested last month while commemorating the Day of the African Child in Avondale at former Senator Jameson Timba’s home.
</blockquote>
The right to bail is a fundamental right protected by Section 50(6) of the Constitution in our Bill of Rights and the continued denial of this fundamental right must be condemned by all well-meaning Zimbabweans.
<blockquote>
The United Nations General Assembly through its body of Principles for the Protection of All Persons under Any Form of Detention or Imprisonment (Resolution A/RES/43/173 of 9 December 1988), succinctly stated in Principle 38 that “a person detained on a criminal charge shall be entitled to trial within a reasonable time or to release pending trial”.
The expectation is that the right to liberty and security, a freedom protected by a host of international human rights instruments including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights is respected as the norm.
Our judiciary must be the refuge for all citizens whose rights are violated and not be seen as partaking in the suppression of the fundamental freedoms of ordinary citizens.
The case of 78 incarcerated opposition supporters has all the signs of political persecution and we call for their release.
We beseech all Zimbabweans to join and amplify the call for their release.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Heal Zimbabwe Trust, a human rights group, is upset because the High Court in Harare refused to give bail to 74 CCC activists. A former MP, Jameson Timba, and others were arrested for having a meeting without permission. The High Court denied their appeal for bail. Out of the 78 people arrested, one was granted bail and two were released because they were under 18. Another person is being held for a mental health check. The HZT is calling for the immediate release of the activists, saying their detention seems like political persecution. The group believes everyone has the right to bail and a fair trial. They want other Zimbabweans to join them in demanding the activists' release.

Rights Group Criticises High Court's Refusal To Grant Bail To 74 CCC Activists

Amnesty International has urged Zimbabwean authorities to immediately and unconditionally release over 70 opposition members which it said were detained solely for the peaceful exercise of their human rights.
The detained individuals are members of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party, and they were arrested on June 16, 2024, while gathered at the home of the party’s interim leader, Jameson Timba.
Both the Magistrates Court and the High Court have denied them bail since their arrest.
Khanyo Farise, Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director for East and Southern Africa <a href="https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2024/07/zimbabwe-authorities-must-immediately-release-detained-opposition-members/">said</a>:
<blockquote>
Zimbabwean authorities must immediately and unconditionally release the CCC opposition party members and drop all the charges against them. Their arbitrary, month-long detention is an outrage which must end now.
This lengthy, baseless detention plainly violates Zimbabwe’s Constitution and its international human rights obligations.
Authorities must end the crackdown on civic space and ensure everyone can freely speak and gather peacefully without fear of arrest or torture and other ill-treatment.
</blockquote>
On Wednesday, High Court Judge Justice Munamato Mutevedzi dismissed an appeal filed by the CCC activists against the denial of bail by Magistrate Ruth Moyo.
The judge upheld the magistrate’s decision, resulting in the continued detention of the 74 CCC activists.
However, one accused individual, Maxwell Sande, who is below the age of 18 years, was released into the custody of his father, Cecil Sande.
The CCC activists are charged with holding an unlawful gathering to plan anti-government protests.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Amnesty wants Zimbabwe to set free opposition members arrested for their rights. Over 70 CCC members were arrested in June 2024 at the party leader's home and have been denied bail. Amnesty says their long detention is wrong. Recently, a judge upheld their detention except for one under 18. The activists are accused of planning protests. Amnesty wants the crackdown to stop so people can speak and gather freely without fear. They want all charges dropped and the activists freed now.

Amnesty International Calls For "Unconditional" Release Of Detained CCC Activists

High Court Judge Justice Munamato Mutevedzi has dismissed an appeal filed by 74 opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activists, including former Member of Parliament Jameson Timba, against the denial of bail by Magistrate Ruth Moyo.
The judge upheld the magistrate’s decision, resulting in the continued detention of the 74 CCC activists.
However, one accused individual, Maxwell Sande, who is below the age of 18 years, was released into the custody of his father, Cecil Sande.
The CCC activists have been in detention since 16 June 2024 when they were arrested at Timba’s house in Avondale, Harare, and charged with holding an unlawful gathering to plan anti-government protests.
In his ruling delivered virtually, Justice Munamato Mutevedzi said:
<blockquote>
In the end, all having been said and done, my conclusion is that there was no misdirection in the court a quo overall assessment of the issues and its finding that the appellants were not proper candidates for admission to bail. 
As stated earlier the only appellant for whom the appeal can succeed is Maxwell Sande because of his age. 
That I may have determined the matter differently is a non-issue. What is material is that I didn’t find any misdirection in the decision of the magistrates court.
The discretion of the trial magistrate, which as demonstrated, she exercised quite judiciously must stand. It disbars me from interfering with her judgment…
The appeal against the refusal to admit appellants one (1)- forty-two (42) and forty-four (44) to seventy-five (75) to bail by the Magistrates’ Court sitting at Harare on 27 June 2024 be and is hereby dismissed in its entirety.
This is an appeal against the decision of the Magistrates’ Court sitting at Harare refusing all the seventy- four (74) appellants admission to bail. The decision was delivered on 27 June 2024.
The demographics of the appellants are interesting. They were not a random assembly. Instead, they hail from different but clearly defined clusters predominantly the suburbs of Chitungwiza, Epworth and Hatcliffe which account for almost three-quarters of the appellants.
Equally noteworthy is the fact that fifty-seven of the appellants are not formally employed and that over sixty of them are aged below forty years.
They are of the same political persuasion having all admitted their affiliation to a political outfit called the CCC.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights said it will “continue to explore legal options to assert the right to liberty” of the detained opposition activists.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

In simple words, the High Court has said no to letting 74 people out of jail, including a man named Jameson Timba. They were arrested for planning protests against the government. Only one person under 18 was released to his father. The judge agreed with the decision to keep the others in jail. Most of the people arrested are young, unemployed, and support a group called the CCC. The lawyers are still trying to help them. The group comes from different places in Zimbabwe like Chitungwiza, Epworth, and Hatcliffe.

High Court Dismisses Jameson Timba, 73 CCC Activists' Bail Appeal

CCC member and former senator Jameson Timba, along with his co-accused, were further remanded in custody when they appeared at the Harare Magistrates Court on Wednesday morning.
Their lawyer, Agency Gumbo, who is also the Member of Parliament for Hatcliffe Constituency (CCC) and Shadow Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, said their bail appeal in the High Court has been set down for Thursday, July 11, at 9 AM before Justice Lucy Mungwari.
Gumbo urged CCC supporters to come to the High Court in solidarity with the jailed party members.
Timba and 77 other CCC activists, most of them young people, were arrested on June 16 when the Zimbabwe Republic Police raided a private home in Avondale, Harare.
They were charged with participating in a gathering with the intent to promote violence, breaches of peace or bigotry, as well as disorderly conduct.
The lawyers for the activists told the media that the gathering was a barbecue at the home of Timba, to commemorate June 16, the Day of the African Child.
The CCC activists were denied bail, with a Harare magistrate ruling that the detainees were likely to commit similar offences if released. The activists were allegedly assaulted and tortured during their arrest and while in custody.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former senator Jameson Timba and 77 other CCC activists were arrested and charged for attending a barbecue to mark the Day of the African Child. They were denied bail and their lawyer, Agency Gumbo, has set an appeal for July 11. Gumbo is asking CCC supporters to come to the High Court to show support. The activists were allegedly beaten by the police during their arrest and in custody. The High Court will decide if they can be released on bail.

Timba And CCC Activists' High Court Bail Appeal Set For 11 July

The Harare Magistrates’ Court on Friday, June 21, 2024, postponed its ruling until Tuesday, June 25, 2024, on the bail application by seventy-six (76) Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) activists, including former party senator Jameson Timba, who will remain in remand prison over the weekend as a result.
The 76 activists were among 79 people arrested on Sunday, 16 June, at Timba’s house in Harare while commemorating the Day of the African Child.
The 79 are facing charges of participating in a gathering with the intent to promote violence, breaches of peace or bigotry as well as disorderly conduct.
The court granted US$100 bail to one of the accused individuals, Ndapuwa Shaun Timba, who is the son of former CCC senator Jameson Timba.
One of the accused persons was a 17-year-old minor, who the court remanded into the custody of their guardian.
Another accused individual showed signs of potential mental health challenges. In accordance with Section 26 of the Mental Health Act, the court ordered this person to remain in custody pending an examination by two doctors to assess their mental capacity.
The state is opposed to bail in respect of the remaining 76, who were all remanded in custody to Tuesday next week.
The state is alleging that the accused persons took part in an unsanctioned gathering on the 16th of June 2024, at around 2 PM at a house in Strathaven in Harare.
Prosecutors alleged the gathering was for an unlawful demonstration.
Police officers proceeded to the residence to investigate and on arrival, they enquired about the purpose of the gathering.
The accused persons allegedly became hostile and riotous and threw stones at the police and their vehicle, forcing them to call for reinforcements.
It is alleged that two police officers were injured during the melee and the police vehicle was also damaged. The accused persons were only arrested after the police resorted to tear smoke.
The group is being represented by lawyers Agency Gumbo, Lazurus Mbereko, Jeremiah Bamu and Webster Jiti.
The CCC members were allegedly tortured while in police custody, with a majority of them having visible scars.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Court Postpones Bail Ruling On Jameson Timba, 75 CCC Activists Arrested On June 16

Shaun Timba, the son of Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) “Chief Administrator”, Jameson Zvidzai Timba, was granted US$100 bail by the Harare Magistrates’ Court on Thursday following his arrest alongside 78 others at his father’s house on Sunday.
As reported by <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200028574/cccs-timbas-son-released-on-bail">NewsDay</a>, Harare magistrate Ruth Moyo ruled that Shaun was caught up in the alleged illegal gathering, which he was not part of, when he had gone there to deliver some gifts to his father.
Timba and 78 other CCC members were commemorating the Day of the Africa Child at his house in Avondale, Harare when they were tear-gassed and arrested by the police.
They are facing charges of participating in a gathering with the intent to promote violence, breaches of peace or bigotry as well as disorderly conduct.
The group is being represented by lawyers Agency Gumbo, Lazurus Mbereko, Jeremiah Bamu and Webster Jiti.
Their bail application continues this Friday at the Harare Magistrates’ Court.
The CCC members were allegedly tortured while in police custody, with a majority of them having visible scars.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Shaun Timba Released On US$100 Bail

Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director for Southern Africa Khanyo Farisè has called for the release of more than 70 members of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party following a mass arrest on 16 June 2024.
The 78 CCC members, including interim party leader Jameson Timba, were arrested at Timba’s house where they were commemorating the International Day of the African Child. Said Farisè:
<blockquote>
The arrest and continued arbitrary detention of 77 opposition members who had peacefully gathered at a private residence is part of a disturbing pattern of repression against people exercising their rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and expression.
Zimbabwean authorities must immediately and unconditionally release these opposition members and drop all charges against them.
Authorities must also uphold Zimbabwe’s constitutional and international human rights obligations including the rights to peaceful assembly, liberty and freedom from torture and other ill-treatment.
Authorities must promptly, thoroughly, impartially, independently, transparently and effectively investigate allegations that some of those arrested were tortured while in police custody and bring to justice those suspected to be responsible. Authorities must also ensure those affected receive urgent medical attention.
</blockquote>
One of the individuals arrested was a nursing mother, and another was a 17-year-old minor who has since been released to the custody of his parent.
The group were held in custody for more than 48 hours without appearing before a competent court, which violates the law.
On 17 June, police charged the detainees with “gathering with intent to promote public violence and disorderly conduct.”
77 CCC activists remain in remand and their bail application will continue this Thursday, June 20.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Amnesty International Demand Immediate Release Of Detained 77 CCC Activists

Former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party senator, Jameson Timba, and 78 others who were challenging their placement on remand on the basis that they had been over-detained by the police had their application dismissed by the Court on Wednesday afternoon, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has said.
The 79 were arraigned before the Harare Magistrates’ Court facing charges of participating in a gathering with the intent to promote violence, breaches of peace or bigotry as well as disorderly conduct.
Allegations are that on 16 June 2024, at around 2 PM, police received information to the effect that an unsanctioned gathering was underway at a house in Strathaven, Avondale West, Harare.
According to prosecutors, the unsanctioned gathering was for an unlawful demonstration. 
Police officers proceeded to the residence to investigate and on arrival, they enquired about the purpose of the gathering.
The accused persons allegedly became hostile and riotous and threw stones at the police and their vehicle, forcing them to call for reinforcements.
Two police officers were injured during the melee and the police vehicle was also damaged.
The accused persons, who included a minor aged 17 years, were only arrested after the police resorted to tear smoke.
The teenager was remanded into the custody of his guardian. Another accused person who showed signs of being mentally challenged was dealt with in terms of section 26 of the Mental Health Act and will be in custody pending an examination by two doctors.
The Court ruled in favour of the State and the accused persons were placed on remand. The accused persons made a bail application which will continue this Thursday, June 20.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Jameson Timba, 78 CCC Activists To Face Trial For Disorderly Conduct

Jameson Timba, the Chief Administrators of a faction of the opposition Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) party and 78 others were arraigned before the Harare Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, June 18, facing charges of participating in a gathering with the intent to promote violence, breaches of peace or bigotry and disorderly conduct.
Allegations are that on 16 June 2024, at around 2 PM, police received information to the effect that an unsanctioned gathering was underway at house number 6 Downie Road Strathaven, Avondale West, Harare.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the unsanctioned gathering was for an unlawful demonstration.
Police officers proceeded to the residence to investigate and on arrival, they enquired about the purpose of the gathering.
The accused persons allegedly became hostile and riotous and threw stones at the police and their vehicle.
Prosecutors say the police officers had to call for reinforcements. Two police officers were injured and the police vehicle was also damaged.
The accused persons, who included a minor aged 17 years, were only arrested after the police resorted to tear smoke.
The teenager was remanded into the custody of his guardian. Another accused person who showed signs of being mentally challenged was dealt with in terms of section 26 of the Mental Health Act and will be in custody pending an examination by two doctors.
The accused persons challenged their initial remand on the basis that they had been over-detained by the police.
The State opposed the application and the ruling is set for this Wednesday, 19 July, at 11:15 AM.
<figure class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 1024px"><img alt="Image" decoding="async" height="682" loading="lazy" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GQXGpkQXwAIkUtu?format=jpg&amp;name=medium" width="1024"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Aaron Ufumeli</figcaption></figure>
In a statement, CCC said Timba and the other party activists are being persecuted for representing the authentic opposition in Zimbabwe. The party added:
<blockquote>
Anyone who represents the authentic opposition in Zimbabwe is subjected to torture, abuse, harassment, and persecution, while those who align with the regime are treated favourably.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Jameson Timba, 78 Others Appear In Court Over Illegal Gathering, Disorderly Conduct

More than 20 people were seriously injured when police officers descended on a gathering of more than 70 opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party activists at the home of party leader Jameson Timba in Harare on Sunday afternoon.
Police said the CCC activists were holding an unsanctioned gathering in contravention of the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act.
<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200028455/police-in-violent-crackdown-against-ccc-20-seriously-injured">NewsDay</a> reported sources as saying at least three of the activists require attention from orthopaedic doctors, while more than five fractured their hands in the melee.
79 people, including Timba and his son, were arrested. The people were separately put in cells at different police stations, with 58 young activists placed at Harare Central Police Station, while more than 20 were detained at Avondale Police Station.
The activists’ lawyer Agency Gumbo claimed that more than 20 party supporters were injured. He said:
<blockquote>
We have more than 20 people that have been confirmed injured by doctors, but the injuries are not severe.
We have people like Jameson Timba, who has a bit of semi-serious injuries because he had a swollen elbow which he got after being beaten by riot police.
We had our doctors come. The doctors looked at them, but obviously because of detention, we can only then be able to have proper X-rays done on them after they are released tomorrow [Tuesday].
</blockquote>
Gumbo said when police officers pounced on Timba’s house, they ordered party activists to jump into a swimming pool. He said:
<blockquote>
The police arrived at a private residence, at Senator Timba’s residence. When the riot entered, they started asking people to jump into the swimming pool.
This was done regardless of what they had in their pockets, with some having cellphones in their pockets. Everyone was just commanded to jump into the swimming pool.
</blockquote>
Some party officials and loyalists had to bring blankets for their colleagues to reduce the impact of the cold night in cells. Said Gumbo:
<blockquote>
So that is what was happening. When they arrived at the holding cells, everyone was wet because they had been forced to jump into the pool, which is unethical.
The police arrived and threw tear gas, after that they fired guns in the air.
After that, they bundled everyone and said jump into the swimming pool. We made sure they had blankets.
Of course, that was detention but when we did interviews we made sure everyone had blankets and slept in a proper holding cell. But the people were brutalised.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi on Monday confirmed the arrest of Timba and the other opposition activists. He said:
<blockquote>
I can confirm that 70 suspects were arrested at Jameson Timba’s house in Harare for conducting an unsanctioned gathering.
During the arrests, they became violent and started throwing stones at the police officers. Reinforcements were later called in.
</blockquote>
According to Gumbo, the CCC activists were attending a private meeting to commemorate the June 16 Youth Day at Timba’s house.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Several CCC Activists Injured As Police Break Up Youth Day Event

Jameson Timba, the leader of a Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) faction reportedly loyal to the party’s former president Nelson Chamisa has been arrested.
Timba is the Chief administrator of a CCC faction whose members are said to be close to Chamisa who quit the party in January this year alleging infiltration by the ZANU PF-led government.
According to lawyer Agency Gumbo, Timba, his son and more than 40 youths were attending a private June 16 Youth Day meeting on Sunday at his residence in Avondale, Harare, when they were arrested. Said Gumbo:
<blockquote>
Hon Timba and the youths were severely beaten and injured. Timba and 20 others are presently detained at Avondale Police whilst the other group has been taken to Harare Central Police Station. We demand the immediate release of our champions. They violated no law. Their arrest is a human rights issue!
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrests to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200028423/police-confirm-timba-70-ccc-activists-arrest">NewsDay</a>. He said:
<blockquote>
I can confirm that 70 suspects were arrested at Jameson Timba’s house in Harare for conducting an unsanctioned gathering.
During the arrests, they became violent and started throwing stones at the police officers. Reinforcements were later called in.
</blockquote>
Youth Day is a national holiday in South Africa which falls on June 16. Youth Day is in commemoration of the contribution that young people made to the struggle for freedom in South Africa.
On June 16, 1976, schoolchildren marched in a protest that began the Soweto Uprising. The uprising was a major event in the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. Youth Day is also known as Soweto Day.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Jameson Timba, More Than 40 CCC Youths Arrested

A faction of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) led by Jameson Timba suffered a major setback in Parliament on Tuesday after the Speaker of the National Assembly Jacob Mudenda revoked its appointment of portfolio point persons made in February.
<a href="https://www.zimlive.com/mudenda-rescinds-appointment-of-chamisa-aligned-mps-to-committees/">ZimLive</a> reported that Timba, who claims to be the CCC Chief Administrator, wrote to Mudenda naming Chipinge South MP Clifford Hlatwayo as CCC’s leader of the house with Nomathemba Ndlovu, the proportional representation MP for Matabeleland South, as the Chief Whip.
On Tuesday, Mudenda told MPs he made a mistake by acting on Timba’s letter. He then invited a rival faction led by Welshman Ncube and Sengezo Tshabangu to submit its list of leaders in parliament. He said:
<blockquote>
On Thursday, February 15, 2024, I made an announcement in the House on the appointment of several members of the CCC party to various portfolios in parliament.
The announcement was based on a letter authored by one Mr Jameson Timba, purporting to be the interim leader of the CCC party.
On reflection, I should not have acted upon that letter as facts now thereof before me show that Jameson Timba had no locus standi to represent a party in such a manner as I will outline below.
Jameson Timba was recalled from the Senate by the CCC party on November 7, 2023, the party which he purported to represent as the acting leader and administrator.
Jameson Timba challenged the recall in the High Court under case number HCH 6684/23 with other former members of the CCC party and lost the court case.
He was also among the former members of the CCC party whom the High Court barred on December 9, 2023, from contesting the February 3, 2024, by-elections under the CCC party following Sengezo Tshabangu’s application to block them from participating in the polls under the CCC banner.
Considering that Jameson Timba had been recalled by the same CCC party he was purporting to represent and that he was also banned by the courts from contesting under the banner of the same CCC party, his communication to parliament and the appointments made thereafter, are therefore null and void.
Accordingly, I am rescinding the announcement on February 15, 2024, and referring the matter back to the CCC party to make the appropriate appointments.
</blockquote>
The other CCC MPs who were assigned to various committees were Hamauswa Shakespear (Deputy Chief Whip); Chalton Hwende (Public Accounts); Joanah Mamombe (Environment &amp; Climate); Lesley Mhangwa (Energy &amp; Power Development); Daniel Molokele (Health and Child Care); Caston Matewu (Information); Minenhle Gumede (Higher Education) and Surrender Kapoikulu (ICT).
Timba reportedly leads a CCC faction loyal to the party’s former leader, Nelson Chamisa who quit the party in January claiming infiltration.
The other faction, which is recognised by the State, was formerly led by Tshabangu, who has recognised Welshman Ncube as the new CCC leader.
Ncube will likely secure government recognition as the Leader of the Opposition, an official title that would come with perks, and also receive CCC’s share of funds from the State under the Political Parties (Finance) Act.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mudenda Revokes Appointment Of Chamisa-aligned MPs To Parliament Committees

A faction of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) linked to the party’s former leader Nelson Chamisa on Friday, 24 May, announced a 16-member shadow Cabinet.
The announcement was made by the party’s chief administrator Jameson Timba who assumed the leadership role of the CCC after Chamisa abruptly quit the party in late January this year claiming the opposition outfit had been hijacked by ZANU PF.
Speaking during a press briefing in Harare yesterday, Timba said the CCC shadow cabinet was a product of the Citizens National Assembly. He said (via <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200027386/ccc-names-shadow-cabinet">NewsDay</a>):
<blockquote>
The Citizens National Assembly saw it wise that the key pillars and the agendas of our voices in Parliament are to push for electoral and political reforms in the country so that once we address the fundamental problem that this country is facing, the symptomatic social and economic problems are to be attended to.
The country is facing a crisis of governance borne out of a cycle of disputed elections. This has led to a crisis of confidence where the people of Zimbabwe do not trust those who have put themselves in the seat of governance.
</blockquote>
He stated that by appointing a more streamlined 16-member shadow cabinet, the CCC demonstrated its commitment to maintaining a lean government when it attains power, thereby avoiding wasting national resources on a bloated cabinet. Said Timba:
<blockquote>
The core belief of the CCC is that we must have a small government so that resources are channelled where they are required as you are aware the current ZANU PF is made up of 25 ministries and we believe that government is too big. Our alternative government is a reflection of our positions vis a vis the current government.
</blockquote>
Some of the CCC Members of Parliament (MPs) who were appointed to the shadow Cabinet are Shakespear Hamauswa (Defence &amp; Liberation Veterans Affairs), Joanah Mamombe (Environment, Climate, Tourism, Hospitality &amp; Wildlife Management), and Daniel Molokele (Health &amp; Child Care).
The shadow cabinet is a crucial feature of the Westminster system of government and consists of a senior group of opposition spokespeople.
Normally, each member of the shadow cabinet mirrors or “shadows” the positions of individual members in the government’s cabinet.
While shadow ministers have no executive power, they scrutinise the policies and actions of the government, offer alternative policies and act as a counterbalance to the ruling party.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CCC Names 16-member Shadow Cabinet

Jameson Timba and Amos Chibaya, close allies of former CCC leader Nelson Chamisa, are apparently vying for control of the yet-to-be-launched political party known as the “Blue Movement”, which is associated with Chamisa.
According to  <a href="https://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-national-byo-241188.html">Bulawayo24</a>, Timba and Chibaya disagree on critical elements of the planned party’s organizational structure, particularly concerning the criteria for selecting cluster leaders.
This situation arises as Chibaya, along with Prince Dubeko Sibanda and Gift Ostalos Siziba, have reportedly confided in their trusted lieutenants about their aspirations to deputise Chamisa.  Chibaya believes he is the most suitable candidate for the role.
Bulawayo24 reported a source as saying that while Timba supports a democratic approach to selecting cluster leaders, Chibaya prefers a system of appointment, where leaders are handpicked rather than elected. Said the source:
<blockquote>
Timba and Chibaya are embroiled in a heated dispute regarding the selection of cluster leaders and other key positions within Chamisa’s prospective party.
Timba insists on transparency and inclusivity in the leadership selection process, believing that democracy should be upheld at every level of the new party structure.
Chibaya’s stance leans towards a more centralized approach, where individuals close to Chamisa would be favoured for key positions, thus consolidating control within the inner circle.
</blockquote>
The Blue Movement is not a formal political party but rather a symbol or concept embraced by Chamisa and his supporters after they abandoned CCC.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Jameson Timba, Chibaya Fight Over Chamisa's Blue Movement | Report

A CCC faction that is led by Jameson Timba has scoffed at pronouncements made by another faction that Welshman Ncube is now the party’s acting president.
In a statement issued this Wednesday, the CCC’s communications department headed by Promise Mkwananzi said the members of the faction led by Ncube are not bona fide CCC members as they derive their authority from the MDC Alliance’s Congress in Gweru of 2019 which was nullified by the courts.
The statement said CCC was formed in 2022 and has no link with MDC Alliance. It also said CCC has no Standing Committee, but its highest policy-making body is the Citizens National Assembly (CNA). Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
CCC Leadership &amp; Court Update
The CCC has taken note of the desperate, malicious and fallacious claims by Welshman Ncube to the effect that he is now the Acting President of the party.
He claims to derive his “authority” from a defunct Standing Committee elected at a supreme court nullified Congress of the MDC of 2019.
Professor Ncube and Tendai Biti the Co-Vice Presidents of MDCA and Jacob Mafume are lawyers and should know better that they cannot claim legitimacy from a process that the Supreme Court nullified. You cannot put something on nothing and expect it to stand
The CCC want to categorically state that Prof. Welshman Ncube is not its Acting President and that he and his lot are caught in a time warp.
The lot is merely advancing a factional and divisive agenda aimed at disrupting the peace and progress of the Citizens movement.
The Citizens Coalition for Change was founded on January 24, 2022, as a new formation and legal entity, separate in structure, formulation and leadership from the MDC and/or MDC Alliance.
It is these fundamental distinctions between the CCC and the MDC-A which isolated these factional and divisive characters from the citizens’ project.
It must be stated for completeness that both Tendai Biti and Welshman Ncube have not been active members in good standing of the CCC having only attended not more than two of the 25 CNA meetings held to date.
The highest policy-making body of the Citizens Coalition for Change is the Citizens National Assembly (CNA) which is constituted of representatives from all the sixty-three districts in Zimbabwe plus Harare and Bulawayo.
The management of the party has always been through its bureaus, namely, Administration, Organising, Elections, Communications, International Relations, legal, Welfare, Youth and Women.
The Administration Bureau now led by Senator Jameson Timba and composed of all Bureau Chiefs plus ten Provincial representatives is in charge of the party following the resignation of the Change Champion In Chief.
There is no Standing Committee in the structure and anatomy of the CCC. The mandate of the Bureau of Administration and its leadership is derived from the Citizens National Assembly (CNA) as given on January 30, 2024.
We have taken note of the desperate and futile attempts at a reincarnation by the failed MDC-N and the PDP through public statements by Tendai Biti, Jacob Mafume and Welshman Ncube who now seek to claim paternity and leadership of the CCC.
It has now become clear to any reasonable person that these gentlemen and their cohorts have always been a part of the coordinated attack on the Citizens’ movement through the numerous recalls.
Their agenda is to reverse the democratic will of Zimbabweans across the country. And, as clearly articulated by Prof. Welshman Ncube, these are the handlers of Sengezo Tshabangu.
The apparent attacks directed at the CCC have been to the benefit of ZANU PF, which now holds a 2/3 majority in the Lower House.
This demonstrates beyond a shadow of a doubt that Welshman Ncube et al have become enemies of the citizens’ aspirations for democracy and prosperity in Zimbabwe.
We wish to assure the Citizens of Zimbabwe and all progressive forces that the leadership of CCC will defend the people’s project from the machinations of these characters.
They will not stop our march to freedom, democracy, prosperity and the transition to NEW POLITICS.
Further, our CCC Leadership, the CNA and all party deployees in Parliament and Councils are undeterred and remain focused on addressing the plight of citizens amidst a growing economic meltdown in the country.
In the meantime, citizens are advised that the Supreme Court will tomorrow, the 22nd of February 2024 at 9:30 am, sit to determine an appeal filed by our deployees against the decision of the High Court per Justice Mutevedzi which dismissed their application in October 2023.
The said application was filed challenging the authority of the imposter, Sengezo Tshabangu to effect recalls of CCC Members of Parliament.
Citizens are encouraged to come out in solidarity with their elected representatives and the party.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Welshman Ncube And His Colleagues Are Not CCC Members - Mkwananzi

Thokozani Khupe’s spokesperson Khalipani Phugeni has dismissed <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/08/03/mwonzora-komichi-are-now-just-ordinary-members-of-the-defunct-party-mdc-alliance-on-mdc-t-not-meeting-the-supreme-court-deadline/">Jameson Timba’s remarks that Khupe has ceased to the MDC T 2014 structures leader</a> since she could not meet the deadline given by the court to hold an extraordinary congress, Newsday reports.
While responding to questions from Newsday about the MDC T  2014 structures term of office expiring, Phugeni said there is no such thing and there was no urgent chamber application dismissed:
<blockquote>There is no such thing. No urgent application was dismissed and Dr Khupe is the acting president by operation of the constitution and the Supreme Court acknowledged that. The judgment did not expire, what didn’t happen is only the extra-ordinary congress.
Everything else about that judgment is still in place. It didn’t expire, maybe until somebody goes to court and seeks a declaratory order to that effect, it did not expire. The extra-ordinary congress that did not happen, we are before the court now requesting for a variation of that judgment.</blockquote>
However, MDC Alliance has said the judgement expired and the court dismissed MDC T’s urgent application but agreed the matter will be heard before 3 judges soon. Komichi and Mwonzora have not yet commented on the issue
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/">Newsday</a>

The Judgement Did Not Expire - MDC T Responds To Claims That Khupe Ceased To Be The President Of The Court Resurrected MDC T

The leader of the opposition MDC Alliance, Nelson Chamisa has embarked on a “meet the structures” interface premised at getting feedback from grassroots.
Chamisa’s presidential affairs secretary, Jameson Timba confirmed the development adding Chamisa himself was in Mbare, Chitungwiza and Mabvuku from Friday to Sunday meeting party members. He said:
<blockquote>The president (Chamisa) has been about meeting the people, listening to their challenges and offering direction. If you remember our plan and strategy was to have action, to confront the evils of corruption and poverty caused by the Zanu PF government. We were supposed to have gone across the country and dealt with these things by May, but the plans were scuttled by COVID-19.</blockquote>
The development is in line with the party’s strategic plan announced last year which shall also see the party working to increase its rural support base which is currently insignificant.
This also comes amid a leadership crisis in the MDC that has resulted in the division of the party into two factions -one led by Chamisa and the other by Thokozani Khupe.
The MDC Alliance has since started recruiting new members in preparation of the 2023 elections.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/">NewsDay</a>

Chamisa In "Meet The Structures" Interface

<blockquote>25 November 2019
The Chief Elections Officer 
Zimbabwe Elections Commission 
Mahachi Quantum House 
No I Nelson Mandela Avenue 
Harare
Dear Sir
RE: PHANTOM NOTIFICATION OF A POLITICAL PARTY (MDC ZIMBABWE) 
We have been made aware that some individuals purporting to be members have written to you purporting to notify you of their existence as MDC Zimbabwe headquartered in Gweru.
We have also been made aware of a letter purportedly coming from yourselves in response to their notification wherein you have acknowledged and indeed accepted them as part of your stakeholders. May we kindly have your confirmation of this.
If it is indeed your letter we object to the content of your letter and conduct for the following reasons:
<ol>
<li>Firstly, as a key stakeholder represented in Parliament and known to you, we were not 
given an opportunity to express ourselves on the validity of the claim by any of the said individuals. May we remind you that you are a public officer in charge of a public institution and as such, you should conduct yourself within the bounds of the Constitution and in particular the requirements of administrative justice.</li>
<li>Secondly, our Party name (Movement for Democratic Change), logo and insignia including any variants are registered patents. The said persons have no authority to use our name or have any claim to it whatsoever.</li>
</ol>
As such we hold the firm view that the purported registration is null and void and should be withdrawn. We, therefore, expect you to notify the said individuals of our position and expect your offices to act accordingly in terms of the law.
Yours faithfully,
Hon Jameson Timba 
Acting Secretary-General</blockquote>

MDC Protests To ZEC Over Recognition On Another MDC Party {Full Text}

The MDC led by Nelson Chamisa has protested to the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Electoral_Commission" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC)</a> after the electoral body recognised a new party calling itself MDC Zimbabwe.
MDC acting secretary-general <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Jameson_Timba" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Jameson Timba</a> registered the party’s displeasure in a letter on Monday addressed to ZEC Chief Elections Officer <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Utloile_Silaigwana" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Utloile Silaigwana</a>. Wrote Timba:
<blockquote>Firstly, as a key stakeholder represented in Parliament and known to you, we were not given an opportunity to express ourselves on the validity of the claim by any of the said individuals.
May we remind you that you are a public officer in charge of a public institution and as such, you should conduct yourself within the bounds of the constitution and in particular the requirements of administrative justice.</blockquote>
ZEC recently announced that it had received a notification of existence from a party called the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) Zimbabwe which is headquartered in Gweru.
The bona fide MDC is worried that the new party will confuse voters during voting, moreso with another MDC (MDC-T) led by Thokozani Khupe have caused confusion in the 2018 polls.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/2019/11/26/mdc-protests-zec-recognition-of-new-political-party-with-its-name/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ZimLive</a></h4>

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