Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa has dismissed attacks against his ‘soft’ leadership style against the ruthless Zanu PF regime following a spate of violence and arrests targeted at his party supporters.
Comparing Chamisa to his predecessor Morgan Tsvangirai, some political commentators and opposition members has described the CCC leader as being too soft to dislodge Zanu PF from power.
Speaking to journalists after being denied access to meet with party activists who are detained at Chikurubi Maximum Prison, Chamisa said he was aware of the people that he was dealing with.
“I have listened to people who say, no, you are being soft, but we know what we are dealing with and these guys are determined to go full length to be very oppressive. We are equally determined, and I can tell you that the citizens are totally determined. We are very clear about the change we want.
“When a government is at the core and at the forefront of abusing citizens, it’s a difficult thing. In other countries, terrorism is done by sections of society. In our country, terrorism is actually instigated by government. We have issues in the country, and human rights abuses are rampant.
“Our colleagues have spent over 120 days in prison with no trial. Pre-trial incarceration; detention without trial is a serious international human rights violation. Sikhala, Sithole and all the Nyatsime heroes are not criminals. They have not committed any offence. They are political prisoners and it’s on account of the toxic politics in this country,” said Chamisa.
Chamisa’s sentiments come at a time the country has witnessed an escalation of political violence across the country ahead of the 2023 harmonised elections.
