Prominent political analysts have heavily criticised former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) vice-president Tendai Laxton Biti for what they term a “schizophrenic and disingenuous” return to political commentary, just days after announcing his retirement from active politics.
This castigation follows Biti’s recent appearances on various media platforms where he launched scathing attacks on the Government’s Debt Resolution Strategy, labelling it “fundamentally flawed” and “a guarantee of perpetual economic stagnation.”
The strategy is a cornerstone of the Government’s plan to re-engage with international creditors and secure fresh financing.
Analysts argue that Biti’s continued dabbling in high-stakes political discourse exposes his retirement announcement as a hollow gesture.
They contend that as a retired politician, he should focus on his legal career rather than attempting to maintain influence.
The criticism intensified following Biti’s call for the establishment of a ‘Constitutional Defence Forum’, which he described as a vehicle for civil society and opposition figures to monitor the Government’s adherence to the national constitution.
To analysts, this move is proof positive that his departure from politics was never genuine.
“His so-called retirement was nothing but a political gambit that has spectacularly backfired. You cannot announce your exit from the political arena and then immediately begin crafting new platforms for political engagement. It is the height of hypocrisy and reveals a man desperate to remain relevant. He should channel his energy into his law firm if he is truly done with politics,” said political scientist Dr. Paidamoyo Mutsvairo.
Echoing these sentiments, governance expert Rukato Wachenuka described Biti as a “divisive and greedy politician” whose actions have historically sowed discord.
“Let us not forget that Tendai Biti was a central figure in the tragic splits that befell the original MDC. His ambition and divisive rhetoric have repeatedly fractured opposition unity. This latest attempt to remain in the spotlight, while pretending to be above the fray, is consistent with a pattern of behaviour that prioritises self-interest over national cohesion. He is a failed politician trying to rewrite his legacy,” Wachenuka stated.
Another analyst, Elijah Chihota, was equally blunt, accusing Biti of suffering from “withdrawal symptoms” and an inability to let go.
“Biti is experiencing the classic withdrawal symptoms of a career politician who has lost influence. He wants to have his cake and eat it too. He wants the moral high ground of a ‘retired’ statesman without relinquishing the microphone. His critiques of Government policy ring hollow coming from someone who has publicly quit. It is an undisciplined and confusing message that ultimately benefits no one,” Chihota said.
The analysts unanimously agreed that Biti’s actions have damaged his own credibility and create unnecessary noise within the political landscape, calling for him to either fully return to politics openly or honour his retirement and step aside completely.
