Political Reporter
Harare – Senator Sengezo Tshabangu, the leader of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) in Parliament, returned to the Senate this week with heartfelt gratitude towards President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Vice President Constantino Chiwenga following his recent hospitalization in Geneva, Switzerland.
Tshabangu fell critically ill in October while attending the 149th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly, where he was representing Zimbabwe.
During a matter of privilege in the Senate, he recounted his harrowing experience and the exceptional support he received from the government.
“The most important moment in my hospital stay was receiving a call from Vice President Chiwenga. He assured me that the Government would do everything to ensure my safe return home,” Tshabangu stated.
He further expressed his appreciation for President Mnangagwa’s personal outreach, saying,
“The following day, President Mnangagwa personally called to extend his support and encouragement, which meant a great deal to me.”
After spending a week in intensive care followed by another week of recovery, Tshabangu acknowledged the unwavering support from Parliament during his ordeal.
“This Parliament stood by me during my most critical time. Despite attending the important IPU meeting, the Speaker and his delegation would visit me, offering comfort and strength,” he noted.
The senator, who has faced controversy within the CCC since declaring himself interim secretary-general, emphasized that his treatment in Geneva transcended political lines.
“I was not representing the opposition; I was representing Zimbabwe. The care I received from the Government and Parliament proved that we are Zimbabweans first, regardless of political affiliation,” he remarked.
Expressing deep gratitude for the financial and moral support that facilitated his recovery, Tshabangu concluded,
“This experience shows that when we prioritise humanity, Zimbabwe can achieve great heights. I am proud to be Zimbabwean and to stand here today, alive, to express my gratitude to the Head of State, the Deputy President, and this Parliament.”
In the meantime, many Zimbabweans in the opposition ranks had expressed jubilation at Tshabangu’s illness. Many are unhappy with the recalls he did which effectively gave Zanu-PF leverage in Parliament.
Tshabangu’s actions contributed to the resignation of Nelson Chamisa as the leader of the CCC. This did not deter Tshabangu who continued to recall MPs and Councilors who were voted under the leadership of Chamisa.
What is amazing is that at times, Tshabangu failed to replace the candidates he had recalled which gave Zanu-PF advantage to control Parliament and some councils.
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