CCC MPs Cry Foul Over Exclusion From CAB 3 Debate

HARARE – Opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) legislators have cried foul over their alleged exclusion from the parliamentary debate on the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB 3), claiming they were removed from the list of speakers despite being approved to participate.

Speaking in Parliament, Honourable Ropafadzo Makumire alleged that the party's Chief Whip had not published the names of legislators selected to debate the Bill on the party's official WhatsApp platform. He further claimed that although he had been approved to contribute to the debate, his name was removed from the list at the last minute.

The allegations come amid claims by some CCC legislators that MPs opposed to CAB 3 are being sidelined while those aligned to rival factions within the party are being given opportunities to speak during the debate.

CCC MP Caston Matewu also raised concerns over his exclusion, stating on social media that he had been removed from a group where notices for debate participation were communicated.

"I am not on the list for those debating #CAB3 this week. The CCC Chief Whip removed me from the group where notices to debate are sent. However, what's important is the voting and I unequivocally reject the Bill in its entirety and will vote against it accordingly. #NoToCab3," wrote Matewu.

Despite their exclusion from the debate roster, the legislators maintained their opposition to the proposed constitutional amendments and vowed to vote against the Bill when it comes before Parliament for a decision.

The dispute highlights ongoing divisions within the opposition as Parliament continues deliberations on the controversial constitutional amendment proposal.