Tinotenda Hove – Controversial Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Secretary General Sengezo Tshabangu sparked debate after attending the National Youth Day celebrations in Marondera on Saturday, an event largely dominated by Emmerson Mnangagwa and ZANU PF officials.

Tshabangu took to X (formerly Twitter) to defend his attendance, insisting that the event was not political and calling on citizens to separate national ceremonies from partisan politics.

“Today (Saturday ) we are in Marondera for the National Youth Day event. This is not a political function, as some might allege,” Tshabangu wrote. “People must be able to separate between a national and a political function, and they should uphold patriotism at all times as the bedrock of unity and prosperity.”

His presence at a ZANU PF-dominated event has drawn criticism from some opposition supporters, who questioned why a senior CCC official would attend a gathering closely associated with the ruling party. Analysts say Tshabangu’s explanation appears to be an effort to avoid being perceived as endorsing the ruling party while emphasising national unity.

Tshabangu’s comments highlight the delicate balance opposition figures must maintain when participating in national events hosted by the government, particularly in a highly charged political environment.