By Staff Reporter
Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) MP Fadzayi Mahere has condemned self-proclaimed party interim secretary general Sengezo Tshabangu for making sexist remarks about the first female mayor of Masvingo, Shantel Chiwara.
In an online interview, Tshabangu disparaged Chiwara, who is 25 years old, by referring to her as a “little girl”. He also implied that she only obtained the position of mayor because she was romantically involved with a senior party leader.
Mahere denounced Tshabangu’s comments as “disgusting misogyny” and an “attack on the right of a young, competent woman to lead.” She emphasized that Chiwara is not a “little girl” but a qualified banker who has made history as Masvingo’s first female mayor.
Mahere urged Tshabangu to cease his harassment of Chiwara, stating, “Stop scandalizing her. Stop infantilizing her. Stop harassing her for being a young woman.” She reminded Tshabangu that the CCC is a party that champions gender equality and welcomes all members, including young professional women.
Chiwara and the CCC party maintain that Tshabangu lacks the authority to recall elected officials. Chiwara is determined to reclaim her Ward 2 seat in the upcoming December 9 by-elections.
Despite Tshabangu’s legal action seeking to disqualify Chiwara and other recalled CCC candidates, Chiwara remains resolute in her pursuit of re-election. The outcome of this political drama remains to be seen.
