Since Nelson Chamisa resigned from his CCC party earlier this year, many Zimbabweans have closely followed his activity on X, formerly known as Twitter. Hopes were high that Chamisa would announce the formation of a new political party. Eight months later, his social media presence has primarily consisted of Bible verses and his signature phrase, “God is in it,” much to the disappointment of his supporters.
Chamisa, a 46-year-old pastor and lawyer, has been a prominent figure in opposition politics for over two decades. Since his resignation, there has been intense debate about his political strategy. Chamisa has embraced a religious narrative, often comparing himself to the biblical David “do you know that the giant Goliath was defeated by David, the goat herder and mere shepherd?” he recently posted on social media.
Chamisa is charismatic and popular, especially among the youth, but his frequent quoting of Bible verses has cast doubt on his future in opposition politics. Critics accuse him of weak leadership and lacking a coherent political strategy, which is crippling Zimbabwe’s opposition politics, power and influence.
Ibbo Mandaza, the director of the Harare think-tank the Southern African Political Economy Series (SAPES) Trust, said that Chamisa has not made any significant statements on Zimbabwean politics since exiting the opposition.
“Go with your ‘God is in it’ and leave opposition politics now, to allow a new leadership. As I have stated before, you have served the state well by systematically demobilizing the masses – a damn disgrace for which you will pay dearly. Declare your departure or we expose you,” said Mandaza.
Despite having over a million followers on X, Chamisa continues to promote his religious message. “Wait and see that our #Godisinit,” he recently posted.
Zimbabwean journalist Hopewell Chin’ono also criticised Chamisa’s lack of leadership and accountability.
“This nonsense is now nauseating! You can’t keep repeating the same thing for 7 years while the jails are full of children. It is either you are meant to lead or you are not leadership material,” said Chin’ono.