A statement from Nelson Chamisa concerning the recent election in Tanzania has sparked a fierce and divided reaction from Zimbabweans online. The former opposition leader used the political crisis in Tanzania to criticise regional bodies and call for electoral reforms, but the move has left many of his followers questioning his focus and his own political title, while others have defended his regional stance.
The statement, posted on X on 4 November 2025, saw Chamisa condemn the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU) for their handling of elections across the region. This intervention, while aimed at a neighbouring nation, has triggered an intense domestic debate about his own political strategy and legacy.
Chamisa Condemns Regional Bodies
In his detailed statement, Chamisa did not hold back in his criticism of the continental organisations. He accused them of being passive in the face of tyranny and flawed electoral processes. According to the statement from his office, he called for immediate action.
“We further call upon the AU to stop, and forthwith seize, the tradition of rubber stamping, and to cease endorsing tyranny and the reversal of democracy on the continent.”
Chamisa also addressed the specific situation in Tanzania, where reports suggest hundreds were killed following a disputed presidential election that saw incumbent Samia Suluhu Hassan win after main rivals were jailed. He expressed solidarity with the Tanzanian opposition and made a direct appeal.
“In Tanzania, we urge the immediate release of the opposition leader, Tundu Lissu, and all other political prisoners, and stress the need for a political solution to address the problems affecting the citizens of Tanzania.”
He added that SADC and AU institutions must be reformed to create clear mechanisms to resolve electoral disputes across the continent.
“There must be a framework and roadmap for resolving disputes in all countries with such challenges, in particular Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Tanzania. This will curb the recurring problems and the vicious cycle of disputed and discredited electoral processes.”
Social Media Erupts With Questions And Criticism
The reaction on X was swift and deeply polarised. Many users immediately zeroed in on Chamisa’s use of the title “President” to refer to himself in the official document.
User @zikhali_x directly asked, “When you refer to yourself as President, what do you mean, you are president of what exactly.” Chamisa responded simply, “A Presidential Candidate.”
Other critics questioned the focus on Tanzania while, in their view, problems persist in Zimbabwe.
Byron Dzinoreva posted, “You go to Tanzania yet you have issued nothing in as far as constitutional protection is concerned in Zimbabwe. OMG.”
To this, Chamisa replied:
“There is no constitution to protect or defend! It’s all torn apart and in tatters! We must instead defend and protect our country!”
The criticism was not limited to his title. Tawonga Kurewa echoed the sentiment with the vernacular question, “NdiPresident weyi?” [He is the President of what?]. Emmanuel Anesu Mapaura pointed out a perceived inconsistency, stating:
“Calling for the release of political prisoners in Tanzania when you’re quiet about political prisoners in a country you’re in is wild.”
Takabatana Daily added,
“What is this called? Mr Nelson Chamisa condemns the situation in Tanzania but fails to say anything when SAPES Trust, closer to home, is burned down.”
A Wave Of Mockery And A Mix Of Support
The statement also unleashed a wave of mockery from sceptics.
User @BlackUmfolo posted:
“Wait!… does he call himself president as well? I thought it was just his fan club”
Another user, Lungani Olungileyo, joked,
“Chamisa ndi President we Burial Society” [Chamisa is the President of a Burial Society].”
Juma Mwakalobo sought clarity, asking,
“Dear @nelsonchamisa just need a quick clarification? This document says President Chamisa? You are President of what exactly?”
Amid the criticism, some supporters rose to Chamisa’s defence.
User Sigma Vortex reflected that the violent aftermath of elections in Mozambique and Tanzania had given them a new perspective:
“After the 2023 elections I questioned your restraint, but after seeing what happened in Tanzania, I now appreciate your wisdom — no political outcome is worth the loss of life. Indeed God is with you; your wisdom is beyond people’s knowledge.”
Another account, FritzP, argued that Chamisa’s decision not to confront the Zimbabwean government directly after the 2023 polls was a “smart” move to avoid needless bloodshed.
However, supporter Tapiwanashe Chiriga admitted to initial doubt, posting,
“I actually defended my guy thinking they were posting a fake statement to malign him.”
The debate also revealed confusion about his current political status.
User ChiheraStacey asked:
“I thought you were taking a sabbatical from active politics. Is this letter coming from you as a representative of a political party, or in your individual capacity? Or was that other letter intended to shield you from accountability regarding the last elections? I come in peace.”
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The post Nelson Chamisa’s Statement On Tanzania Election Divides Zimbabweans appeared first on iHarare News.
