Political Reporter

Intra-party violence within the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) is escalating, with supporters of that party’s St. Mary’s candidate, Brighton Mazhindu, vowing to revenge for the attack on his son, Matthias, by supporters of Freddy Masarirevu.

Masarirevu is another CCC candidate for St. Mary’s constituency, although his candidature has not been endorsed by that party’s leadership.

A source who spoke to this publication said that the attack took place on Saturday when Mazhindu's son was assaulted by a group of men while campaigning for his father in St. Mary's constituency. The men, who are believed to be supporters of Masarirevu, beat the boy with sticks and stones, leaving him with serious injuries.

In response, Mazhindu's supporters held a caucus meeting yesterday, and  agreed that Masarirevu should not be allowed to campaign in St. Mary's. They also vowed to retaliate against any further attacks on Mazhindu or his supporters.

"Mazhindu’s camp held a caucus meeting yesterday, and they resolved that Masarirevu should not be allowed to campaign in St. Mary’s. They further resolved that they should retaliate against any attacks on Mazhindu or his supporters. Mazhindu declared war on Masarirevu’s camp,” said the source.

The same source added that Masarirevu refused to withdraw his candidature and said that he was ready to clash with Mazhindu and his supporters.

According to the source, Masarirevu accused Mazhindu of trying to intimidate him and his supporters and said that he would not be cowed.

Meanwhile, political commentator Terrence Chipwanya said that the violence between the two factions of the CCC was a worrying development and could have serious consequences for the party's chances in the upcoming elections.

Chipwanya added that it was important for that party's leadership to intervene and bring an end to the violence before it was too late.