In a shocking turn of events, former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa has seemingly abandoned frontline politics to pursue academic ambitions abroad. On September 24, 2025, Chamisa departed for Harvard University in the United States, via South Africa, to begin a three-year PhD program at the J.F. Kennedy School of Government.

Chamisa’s dissertation will focus on the militarization of electoral politics, using Zimbabwe, Venezuela, and Egypt as case studies. The program will see him spend two years in classrooms, followed by up to two years of research. This move has left CCC supporters and the wider opposition movement in disarray, with many questioning the timing of his decision .

Chamisa’s departure has opened the door to fierce political jostling reminiscent of the power struggles depicted in Game of Thrones. Former legislator Job Sikhala, fresh from launching a series of political books, is seeking to establish his own party. Meanwhile, ex-MDC Secretary General Morgen Komichi is calling for unity among former opposition leaders under a single umbrella.

Briggs Bomba, a former activist with strong international connections, has also re-emerged, positioning himself as Chamisa’s more strategic replacement. Bomba has been rallying support from global organizations and openly criticizing Chamisa’s “strategic ambiguity,” promising a clearer vision for Zimbabwe’s democratic struggle.

Adding to the controversy is the revelation that Chamisa is reportedly self-funding his studies through proceeds from a GoFundMe campaign. Critics argue he exploited diaspora supporters for personal gain, while his backers insist the move is a worthy investment in the future of Zimbabwe’s leadership.

Some critics have even speculated that the academic pursuit is a cover for intelligence grooming, suggesting Chamisa may be undergoing training linked to America’s CIA. However, there is no concrete evidence to support these claims.

Chamisa’s absence has deepened uncertainty within the opposition, with no clear figure emerging to command the loyalty of his once-vast support base. As the battle for succession intensifies, Zimbabwe’s political landscape faces a period of turbulence and fragmentation .

 

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