Political Reporter
Prominent Zimbabwean opposition figure, Tendai Biti,is set to establish his own political party, signalling a potential rift within the country’s opposition movement and diminishing the likelihood of his joining Nelson Chamisa’s yet-to-be-launched party, a source close to the developments has revealed.
Biti, a former Finance Minister and Secretary General for the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), is transforming his pressure group, the Forum for Constitutional Protection (FCP), into a full-fledged political party.
The move comes amid growing tensions within the opposition ranks, as key figures jostle for influence ahead of the next electoral cycle.
“Biti has been mobilising grassroots support for months, and the decision to form a new party is final. He believes the opposition needs a fresh direction, and his team is already working on the groundwork,” said the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity.
The new party, whose name is yet to be officially announced, will include key allies such as self-exiled Obey Sithole and Obert Gomba, among others.
This development is seen as a blow to Chamisa, who has been attempting to unite opposition forces under his banner following his departure from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).
Political analysts suggest Biti’s decision underscores deepening divisions within Zimbabwe’s opposition, which has struggled to present a united front against the ruling ZANU-PF party.
“This is a clear indication that the opposition is fragmenting further. Biti’s move could split the vote,which ultimately benefits Zanu PF,” said political commentator Rejoice Mwenje.
The rift between Biti and Chamisa is not new. The two have clashed over strategy and leadership styles in the past, with Biti advocating for a more structured approach to opposition politics, while Chamisa has leaned toward populist mobilisation.
Meanwhile, social media posts, including one by Zviko Juma, have fuelled speculation about Biti’s plans.
Juma tweeted: “Tendai Biti is set to transform his Forum for Constitutional Protection (FCP) pressure group into a full political party, with new team mobilising grassroots across Zimbabwe.”
As the opposition grapples with internal strife, the ruling party appears to be consolidating its grip on power.
With Biti’s new party on the horizon, the political landscape in Zimbabwe is poised for further upheaval, raising questions about the opposition’s ability to mount a credible challenge in future elections.
