By Fanuel Chinowaita
Manicaland, Zimbabwe — Another youth coordinator previously aligned to Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa, Lucky Chipokore, has officially defected to the ruling ZANU PF, amid lingering controversy over his appointment within Manicaland’s youth structures.
Chipokore was appointed youth coordinator under circumstances that several youths in Manicaland say went against their collective will. His appointment was facilitated by senior party figures, including Farai Chinobva from the national structures and Manicaland-based Cloud Nengomasha, according to sources.
On the day of his appointment, this publication was informed that tensions flared as youths attempted to resist the process, but the delegation, which claimed to have been mandated by Chamisa, proceeded despite the objections.
A Manicaland youth who spoke to The Wasu Post said the programme at which Chipokore was appointed had initially been scheduled for Mutare but was later moved to Chipinge.
“The programme was supposed to be held in Mutare, but the task team changed it to Chipinge where they thought many youths who were against the move would fail to attend due to transport costs,” said the youth.
“However, some managed to source money and followed the process to Chipinge. If we were allowed to vote, Chipokore was not going to win.”
Confirming his defection to The Wasu Post, Chipokore said his decision to join ZANU PF was voluntary and not motivated by financial gain.
“I didn’t join for money or anything else, but to associate with the ruling party for what it is doing to liberate this country in terms of improving the lives of the people,” he said. “That is my mandate by joining the ruling party.”
Chipokore further said his move was protected by the Constitution.
“It is my constitutional right to associate with whoever or whichever political party I want. I have made my decision, and it is a bold one,” he said.
In messages shared with youths he previously worked with, Chipokore acknowledged their past cooperation but said political differences had led him to change course.
“I have moved on, my brother. That’s politics. We are not enemies; it’s just a choice,” he said. “We hoped to dislodge the ruling party, but unfortunately we were confused, disunited and disorganised, with no clear vision.”
He accused some opposition leaders of self-interest, alleging duplicity in their political conduct.
“ZANU PF has a clear direction and a well-defined ideological template, with a clear vision for the future,” Chipokore said. “Now it’s time to contribute to the development of my country through different angles.”
He concluded by reiterating that his defection should not be taken personally, stressing that it was his democratic right to freely associate with a political organisation of his choice.