Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) interim secretary-general, Sengezo Tshabangu, has reportedly secured an agreement with Bulawayo Mayor, David Coltart, to align his administration with Government directives and attend official functions.
A CCC member familiar with the developments, who spoke to this publication, recently, on condition of anonymity, said the agreement was intended to ensure Coltart cooperates with the Tshabangu-led faction and avert a possible recall from office.
“The understanding was that Coltart would toe the line and ensure that his office operates in accordance with directives from the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works,” the member said.
The source said the arrangement also required the mayor to attend State functions and local government programmes, claiming that his participation in official engagements had previously been inconsistent.
“Coltart was expected to attend State functions and local government programmes instead of selectively attending engagements that suited his personal interests,” the member added.
The CCC member further claimed that the agreement was reached against a background of factional tensions within the CCC, with Tshabangu seeking to strengthen his influence over elected officials associated with the opposition movement.
“The issue was to ensure that the mayor complies with the agreed terms, as failure to cooperate could expose him to the risk of being recalled,” the source said.
CCC has been affected by internal disputes over leadership and control of elected positions, with Tshabangu’s controversial recalls of opposition legislators and councillors deepening divisions within the party.
