Insiza cllr quits CCC to run as independent in by-election

By Promise Dube

Ward 15 Councillor in Insiza South, Lesley Dube, has resigned from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) with immediate effect to contest the Insiza North parliamentary seat as an independent candidate.

In a formal letter addressed to CCC acting president Professor Welshman Ncube Dube said his decision followed “extensive reflection on the state of our democratic struggle” and the need to confront ZANU PF dominance in rural areas.

“This decision has not been an easy one,” Dube wrote. “It comes after extensive reflection on the state of our democratic struggle and the urgent need to confront and dismantle the enduring hegemony of ZANU PF in our rural strongholds, particularly in Insiza North.”

The by-election is scheduled for 14 June 2025.

He will contest against Zanu PF candidate Delani Moyo, who won the party’s primary election on Tuesday.

Dube, who served as councillor under the CCC banner, said he could no longer carry out his political mission within the party, citing unspecified “internal challenges.”

“My desire to contest the upcoming parliamentary elections… stems from an unshakable commitment to defending and expanding the democratic space for our people,” he stated. “I believe this task requires a bold and independent stance, unencumbered by the internal challenges currently affecting our movement.”

He insisted his resignation should not be seen as a defection or betrayal.

“I remain a committed fighter for democratic change, justice, and the aspirations of the people of Zimbabwe,” he said. “My resignation should not be mistaken for a betrayal of the struggle, but rather as a redirection of my energy toward confronting tyranny and oppression head-on.”