Nicola Watson, a prominent member of the CCC party who was recalled from Parliament by the self-proclaimed Secretary General Sengezo Tshabangu, is determined to win back her seat in the upcoming by-elections. Watson, the first female MP for Bulawayo South since its inception, seeks to continue her work for the constituency.

In an exclusive interview with My Afrika Magazine, Watson stated that she believes her recall stemmed from her unwavering belief in a better Zimbabwe.

“I think I was recalled because I never wavered in my conviction that Zimbabwe cannot move forward without a change in government,” she said.

Watson urged Bulawayo South residents to re-elect her and exercise their right to vote. However, she acknowledged the challenge of vote splitting within the CCC due to two candidates running: herself, backed by Nelson Chamisa, and another candidate approved by Tshabangu.

Despite her recall, Watson emphasized her continued commitment to the CCC, citing her past campaign efforts as a cluster leader. “I have tirelessly worked for the CCC as a cluster leader for Tsholotsho and Bulawayo,” she said. “I never ceased to be a member, nor was I recalled by the CCC. That is and will be my stance.” Prior to her recall, Watson actively worked within the two community wards of her constituency, spearheading projects like the Sizinda gardens and borehole drilling. “I met with stakeholders in both wards and established synergy with councilors for effective development,” she noted. “The Sizinda gardens is a model project that immensely benefits the community.”

Watson Criticizes Proposed Budget for Pensioners

As a staunch advocate for pensioners, Watson condemned the proposed budget by Finance Minister Mthulisi Ncube, calling it a “tragedy.” She highlighted the plight of pensioners whose incomes have been drastically reduced twice in the past 15 years. “The Minister of Finance seems blind to the failure and unfairness of not implementing the Justice Smith Commission recommendations,” she said. “Depriving pensioners, especially those with no formal pensions, of social grants is cruel.”

Watson will face stiff competition in the December 9th by-elections. Her opponents include Raj Modi of ZANU PF and another CCC candidate backed by Sengezo Tshabangu.