The rise of social and mainstream media has changed politics forever. It is a powerful tool that can reveal truth, highlight injustice, and give a voice to the voiceless. But in the wrong hands, it becomes a weapon—a tool for spreading confusion, lies, and political sabotage. In Zimbabwe today, this battle is playing out before our eyes, as journalists like Hopewell Chin’ono and media platforms tied to ZANU PF are accused of trying to stir conflict within the Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC).

At the centre of the storm is the claim that Tendai Biti, one of the CCC’s strongest political figures, was removed or sidelined from the party’s list of parliamentary candidates. This story, pushed by certain media voices, has sparked confusion and anger among supporters. But the bigger question remains: is this true, or is it just another trap meant to divide and conquer?

The CCC was formed as a response to dictatorship. It was built on the belief in democracy, transparency, and a better Zimbabwe. But like all movements, it is vulnerable to attacks from both outside enemies and inside conflicts. The recent reports about Biti’s alleged omission have shaken some supporters. But they have also raised serious questions: Who is behind this story? What is the goal of spreading such rumours? And why now, when unity is most needed?

Many suspect that these stories are not innocent journalism but strategic propaganda. Hopewell Chin’ono, a once-respected journalist, is now being accused by some of using his influence to push narratives that weaken the opposition. Whether knowingly or not, his reporting is now being seen as part of a wider ZANU PF strategy—using media to divide the CCC and make it look unstable.

The truth is, ZANU PF has always feared a strong, united opposition. They understand that if CCC stands together—young leaders, veterans like Biti, and ordinary citizens—their grip on power becomes weaker. So they use every trick in the book: arrests, violence, and now, media manipulation. The aim is simple—make the people lose faith in the CCC before they even go to vote.

The CCC must not fall into this trap. Whether or not Biti was omitted, the party must speak clearly and openly. Supporters need answers, not silence. Political decisions should not be made in secret rooms. Transparency builds trust. Rumours only grow when there is no communication.

At the same time, media figures must be held accountable. Journalism is not a game. When reporters knowingly or recklessly spread lies, they become part of the system that keeps Zimbabwe down. Zimbabweans must start asking who benefits from each story they see. Who gains power? Who loses? And who is behind the scenes?

This is not just about Biti. It is about the future of opposition politics in Zimbabwe. It is about protecting the people’s hope for change from those who want to destroy it through lies and division. The CCC cannot afford to let rumours destroy what it has built. Its leaders must put egos aside and focus on the bigger picture—defeating dictatorship and building a better Zimbabwe.

The media must also return to its true role—informing, not manipulating. Zimbabwe needs honest journalism more than ever. Not voices that echo ZANU PF’s fear tactics or create fake chaos. Only then can we build a future based on truth, unity, and real democracy.

The people are watching. And they are tired of games.