The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party has been embroiled in controversy, with several members facing scandals and clashes with the law. Obert Manduna, a former CCC legislator, was recently granted $100 bail by the High Court of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo pending his appeal against his conviction and sentence. Manduna was sentenced to two years in jail for defrauding a Bulawayo woman of $5,900 in a botched residential stand deal.

The case bring out the challenges faced by the CCC party, which has been plagued by internal conflicts and allegations of corruption. Manduna’s lawyer argued that the case is civil in nature with no criminal element, and the court erred in imposing a custodial sentence. The outcome of Manduna’s appeal will be closely watched, given the party’s history of controversy and infighting.

The CCC party has been marred by internal conflicts, with some members accusing others of betrayal and collusion with the ruling ZANU-PF party. Tendai Biti, a senior CCC member, was accused of working with ZANU-PF against the party’s leader, Nelson Chamisa. Biti denied the allegations, but the controversy presents  the deep-seated divisions within the party.

Several CCC members have been arrested and clashed with the law, sparking concerns about the party’s ability to operate freely. In June 2024, police arrested over 70 CCC members, including interim party leader Jameson Timba, for gathering to commemorate the Day of the African Child. Amnesty International called for their release, citing violations of their rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and expression.

The CCC party faces significant challenges, from internal conflicts to clashes with the law. Obert Manduna’s conviction and appeal highlight the need for the party to address its internal issues and ensure that its members operate within the law. As the party navigates these challenges, it remains to be seen how it will impact its future and the country’s political landscape.

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