Advocate Job Sikhala held a press conference today, February 8th 2024, at the SAPES Trust Offices in Harare, where he made a significant announcement.
He formally tendered his resignation from Sengezo Tshabangu’s Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party and declared his intention to establish a new political movement in the near future. Sikhala informed the public that he plans to convene a National People’s Democratic Convention to determine the way forward.
During the conference, Sikhala voiced his dissatisfaction with the current trajectory of the CCC under the leadership of Vice Presidents Tendai Biti and Professor Welshman Ncube, and Secretary General Sengezo Tshabangu, alleging that the CCC has been influenced by ZANU PF.
The event was attended by notable figures including former MDC National Chairperson Morgen Komichi, several ambassadors, and members of the media.
There is speculation regarding whether Komichi will align himself with Sikhala’s new political venture. Sikhala also outlined his intentions to engage in consultations aimed at establishing a broad-based citizen movement, stressing the importance of an active democratic force in Zimbabwean politics.
Additionally, Sikhala announced plans to hold a convention to formalize the creation of this new movement. He declined to field questions from journalists during the press conference.
Commentary from Dorothy Masuka suggested that Sikhala’s new party could position him as a presidential contender. Speculation about Sikhala’s intentions to launch his own political party had been circulating following his recent release from prison, with many anticipating such a move.
An analysis of Sikhala’s political trajectory highlighted his involvement with the MDC Alliance under the late President Morgan Tsvangirai, through which he secured a parliamentary seat in 2018.
However, following the press conference, several of Sikhala’s former supporters distanced themselves from him, aligning instead with President Chamisa and his party, indicating a shift in allegiance away from Sikhala upon his release from prison.
An opposition parliamentarian, speaking anonymously, who had been actively supporting Sikhala during his legal battles, criticized Sikhala’s decision to form a new party, viewing it as a strategic misstep. The parliamentarian expressed doubts about Sikhala’s level of support and predicted limited backing for his new endeavor.
The question remains whether Sikhala possesses the necessary political capital to challenge President Chamisa, ZANU PF, and other political entities. Only time will tell.
At present, President Chamisa continues to enjoy widespread support among Zimbabwean citizens, with the launch of his eagerly anticipated political party on the horizon.
