Nelson Chamisa, leader of Zimbabwe's opposition CCC, resigns from the party calling it 'tainted'

Zimbabwe's opposition leader Nelson Chamisa announced his resignation, citing government interference and corruption within his party. In a 13-page statement, Chamisa expressed his refusal to engage in what he called "sewer politics." Despite winning 44% of the votes in last year's presidential election, allegations of foul play marred the process. Chamisa accused the ruling Zanu-PF party of sabotaging several MPs from his party, leading to their loss of seats. The 45-year-old Christian pastor plans to establish a new political party. While Chamisa enjoys support, particularly in urban areas, critics argue that his ineffective leadership has deepened divisions within the opposition, ultimately benefiting President Emmerson Mnangagwa's hold on power. In his resignation letter, Chamisa accused Zanu-PF of defiling his party and denounced the abuse of state institutions. He blamed President Mnangagwa for the country's myriad issues, including inadequate hospitals, the cholera outbreak, and the collapse of social services. Chamisa also claimed that individuals within his party had been bribed to undermine its integrity. Drawing an analogy to President Mnangagwa's nickname "crocodile," Chamisa vowed not to "swim with hungry crocodiles." President Mnangagwa assumed power in 2017 after a bloodless coup toppled long-time leader Robert Mugabe. Initially seen as a symbol of change and hope, Zimbabwe continues to grapple with high inflation, unemployment, and censorship.