The plight of Jameson Timba and his 78 CCC activists, arrested for allegedly planning violent protests in Avondale, paints a sobering picture of the realities faced by opposition activists. Still languishing in prison, their once-vocal social media supporters seem to have moved on, leaving them to endure solitary anguish. Former CCC legislator Amos Chibaya, once a fiery opposition voice, now shares the same fate, mirroring the trajectory of others like Job “Wiwa” Sikhala.
This trend highlights a disturbing cycle within the opposition. Activists seeking political recognition often find themselves on the wrong side of the law, encouraged by leaders and social media instigators who never cross legal boundaries themselves. Once arrested, these individuals are forgotten, abandoned to navigate the harsh realities of incarceration while their families bear the brunt of their absence. Breadwinners are lost, marriages strain under the weight of separation, and children drift without guidance—all for fleeting moments of political notoriety.
Timba and the 78, alongside Chibaya, seemingly ignored the cautionary tale of Sikhala, who after years of incarceration now lives a subdued life, evidently transformed by his time in prison. The irony is stark: those who instigate or cheer on illegal actions remain free, while their followers face the consequences alone. Nelson Chamisa’s infamous labeling of the August 1, 2018, protesters as “stupid” remains a bitter reminder of this reality. Those involved in such acts continue to suffer in prison while their leaders enjoy freedom and luxury, often far removed from the turmoil they incite.
The coming festive season will only magnify the grim solitude of these incarcerated activists. While their families endure hardship, those who once rallied behind them will celebrate Christmas, indifferent to their suffering. January 2025 will likely bring a brief resurgence of their names—not out of concern, but as a rallying point for fundraising campaigns aimed at replenishing donor coffers.
This bleak narrative serves as a cautionary tale. The consequences of succumbing to mob psychology and pursuing reckless political stardom are profound, with lasting impacts on individuals and their families. It underscores the importance of critical thinking and personal responsibility, particularly in a political landscape where the stakes are high, but the loyalty of those who lead is often superficial.
