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The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has declared it is ready to hold the National Assembly by-elections in Mt Pleasant and Harare East Constituencies on Saturday, 27 April 2024.
In an election notice issued this Monday, 22 April, ZEC Chief Elections Officer, Utloile Silaigwana said 42 300 have been printed for the Mt Pleasant by-election, and 38 850 ballot papers have been printed for the Harare East by-elections. Reads the notice:
<blockquote>
Printing and Minting Company of Zimbabwe Pvt (Ltd) located at No. 1 George Drive, Msasa, Harare, was given the mandate to print ballot papers to be used for the National Assembly by-elections.
A total of forty-two thousand, three hundred (42 300) National Assembly ballot papers for Mount Pleasant Constituency and a total of thirty-eight thousand, eight hundred and fifty (38 850) for Harare East Constituency have been printed for the by-elections.
</blockquote>
The candidates for the Mt Pleasant constituency are George Mashavave (ZANU PF), Brian Ticky, and Nason Mamuse who are both independents.
Kiven Mutimbanyoka (ZANU PF) and Ropafadzo Cynthia Cheza (Independent) are vying for the Harare East seat.
David Chitimbe of Changu Chimuti Chakapinda Chapinda (CCCC), who intended to run for the Harare East seat, failed to raise the required US$1,000 nomination fees.
The two seats fell vacant following the resignation from Parliament of Fadzayi Mahere and Allan Markham who had both been elected on the CCC ticket in the August 2023 harmonised elections.
Mahere represented the Mount Pleasant Constituency and submitted her resignation letter on January 29, 2024.
Markham, who was a Member of Parliament for the Harare East Constituency, resigned on January 31, 2024.
The two MPs resigned in solidarity with Nelson Chamisa, who had abruptly quit CCC a few days earlier claiming that the party had been infiltrated by ZANU PF.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

81 000 Ballot Papers Printed For Mt Pleasant, Harare East By-elections - Silaigwana

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has urged voters in Harare East constituency to vote for the ZANU PF candidate, Kiven Mutimbanyoka, in the upcoming by-election, saying they should correct “the mistake” they made in the August 2023 harmonised elections, <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200025945/zanu-pf-shelves-thank-you-rallies">reported NewsDay</a>.
The seat was won by Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) candidate Allan Markham in the harmonised elections.
Markham, however, resigned from Parliament after the party’s former leader Nelson Chamisa quit CCC towards the end of January this year alleging the party had been hijacked by ZANU PF.
Addressing ZANU PF supporters at a rally at Chikurubi Damview on Sunday, Chiwenga reminded voters of April 28, 1897, which he said marked the beginning of the Second Chimurenga.
The by-election will be held on 27 April, and Chiwenga told the country that April 28, a day after the by-elections, was the day when spirit mediums, Mbuya Nehanda and Sekuru Kaguvi, who inspired the First Chimurenga, were beheaded. Said Chiwenga:
<blockquote>
The Harare East by-elections have allowed us to correct and restore the political status quo and correct the mistake of the August 2023 elections.
This opportunity must not be misused because our woes will not end. April 27 is an important day among the youth and all the adults.
It is the last day of Mbuya Nehanda and Sekuru Kaguvi in flesh because on the 28th when we will be celebrating Mutimbanyoka’s victory, that is the day they were beheaded along Tongogara Street after they had been sentenced to death.
On the 28th when we should be celebrating the victory is the day when the second liberation war started in Chinhoyi.
So those dates 27 and 28 are significant dates in relation to the by-election that we are looking forward to. We should remember where Zimbabwe came from.
Remember where the Zimbabwe that you want to sell out like you are selling tomatoes came from.
</blockquote>
Mutimbanyoka will contest against Ropafadzo Cheza, an independent candidate for the vacant Harare East National Assembly seat.
Another by-election will be held in Mount Pleasant on 27 April after the incumbent, Fadzayi Mahere (CCC) resigned.
ZANU PF’s George Mashavave and two independent candidates, Naison Mamutse and Brian Ticky, are running for the Mount Pleasant seat.
ZANU PF political commissar Mike Bimha represented Vice President Kembo Mohadi at another rally in Mt Pleasant.
Meanwhile, ZANU PF Harare metropolitan provincial vice chairman Ephraim Fundukwa said that the party had deployed Forever Associates Zimbabwe (FAZ), Heritage Trust and Young Women for ED members to campaign for the candidates.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

VP Chiwenga Tells Voters In Harare East To Avoid A Repeat Of August 2023 "Mistake"

The Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) has reiterated its call for comprehensive electoral reforms that will bring to an end the cycle of disputed elections in the country.
In its statement marking the country’s 44th Independence anniversary, ZESN noted the achievements brought about by self-rule, among them one man one vote which ensures universal suffrage.
ZESN said that since gaining independence in 1980, Zimbabwe has consistently conducted periodic elections at constitutionally set intervals.
The country established the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) to manage elections, where voting takes place in a single day, and results are counted at polling stations.
Additionally, the implementation of Biometric Voter Registration (BVR) has been a crucial step in enhancing the electoral process.
ZESAN, however, said that the 2023 Harmonised Elections were helped without significant electoral reforms. It said:
<blockquote>
Independence Day also comes at a time when ZESN is advocating for electoral reforms, urging the government and all electoral stakeholders to reconsider proposals submitted by ZESN and various Civil Society Organizations (CSOS) during the previous electoral cycle to enhance the credibility and integrity of elections. This call comes against the backdrop of the 2023 Harmonised Elections, which were conducted without significant electoral reforms.
Although in 2022, the Zimbabwean government made amendments to the Electoral Act through the Electoral Amendment Bill, such as removing the driver’s license as proof of identity, ZESN believes these changes primarily addressed nominal and administrative reforms, overlooking crucial reforms essential for transparent and credible elections.
Substantive electoral reforms, which stakeholders had been advocating for, were omitted from the amendments to the Electoral Act.
Zimbabwe’s founding tenets are rooted in respect for the Constitution, the rule of law, fundamental human rights and freedoms, diverse cultural, religious and traditional values, gender equality, good governance and regular elections, stemming from the election results of 1980 that led to the transition to Independence.
</blockquote>
Since the emergence of strong opposition in the 2000 elections, Zimbabwe has conducted disputed elections characterised by allegations of vote rigging and politically motivated violence. Said ZESN: 
<blockquote>
Despite the country conducting regular elections every five (5) years, ZESN emphasizes the need for the government and political parties to establish an environment conducive to upholding the basic tenets of democracy.
This includes promoting a multi-party democratic political system; conducting credible elections; enhancing the rights of all political parties and citizens; and promoting transparency, justice, accountability and responsiveness.
Elections play a pivotal role in allowing the electorate to select leaders for governance and decision-making positions.
</blockquote>
In the run-up to the 2023 general elections, ZEC conducted a controversial delimitation exercise. Later, ZEC clung to the voters’ roll and opposition candidates had to approach the courts to force ZEC to release an analysable voters’ roll without success.
ZESN also called on elected leaders to enhance accountability mechanisms to citizens as part of efforts to uphold the essence of good governance and democratic principles. It said:
<blockquote>
In its quest for a Zimbabwe where democratic election principles are upheld, ZESN reiterates its call for comprehensive and timely strengthening of the progress made thus far in improving the quality of elections.
This includes aligning electoral laws fully with the Constitution; strengthening ZEC capacity and accountability to conduct electoral processes effectively and transparently; fostering a political environment conducive to holding free, fair, peaceful and credible elections; ensuring adequate representation of marginalized groups; electoral stakeholders to have access to justice, reduced election-related violence and adopting alternative dispute resolution mechanisms as well as instituting an efficient and transparent results management process.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZESN Renews Call For Electoral Reforms As Zimbabwe Celebrates 44th Independence Anniversary

Independent candidates running for the Mount Pleasant and Harare East constituencies in the upcoming April 27 by-elections are calling on voters to support former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa by casting their votes in their favour.
The vacancies in these constituencies arose after former CCC legislators Fadzayi Mahere (representing Mt Pleasant) and Allan Markham (representing Harare East) resigned from their party in protest against Parliament’s conduct.
Mahere and Markham stepped down just days after Nelson Chamisa, the former CCC leader, left the party, alleging infiltration by ZANU PF.
As reported by <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200025657/independent-candidates-ride-on-chamisas-coattails">NewsDay</a>, Independent candidates Nason Mamutse (representing Mt Pleasant) and Ropafadzo Cheza (representing Harare East), who openly support Nelson Chamisa, are now leveraging Chamisa’s perceived popularity to secure victory in the upcoming by-elections. In an interview during the weekend, Mamutse said:
<blockquote>
I am contesting as an independent and for now, Chamisa is also an individual. I would have put any other person on my campaign posters but I chose Chamisa because I like him.
</blockquote>
Mamutse will square off against ZANU PF’s George Mashavave and Brian Ticky for the Mount Pleasant seat, whileCheza will contest against Kiven Mutimbanyoka for the Harare East constituency.
A CCC faction led by Jameson Timba has pledged its support for the independent candidates.
The other CCC factions, one led by Welshman Ncube, and another led by Sengezo Tshabangu did not field candidates for the by-elections.
The spokesperson of the CCC faction led by Timba, Promise Mkwananzi said the party supported the independent candidates “to ensure democracy finds its way in Parliament”. He said:
<blockquote>
We did not field any candidates under the CCC because CCC candidates have been blocked in the past.
In our view, the citizens must vote for the CCC candidates to ensure that ZANU PF is stopped from gaining any further ill-gotten political ground.
Parliament is a platform for democratic debate but if ZANU PF had not recalled our MPs in Parliament we would have prevented it from acquiring a two-thirds majority.
There is a need for people to be represented so that the democratic movement in its totality continues to prevail in its liberated zones.
</blockquote>
CCC has been embroiled in self-destructive turmoil since last year. It all began when Tshabangu, a relatively unknown figure at the time, notified Parliament that he was the party’s interim secretary-general.
His actions led to the recall of CCC legislators, senators, and councillors, which in turn triggered a series of by-elections.
Meanwhile, ZANU PF has steadily secured its grip on power. Through a series of by-elections, they have achieved a commanding two-thirds majority in the lower house of Parliament, the National Assembly.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Independent Candidates For April 2024 By-elections Seek To Ride On Chamisa's Popularity

Self-exiled former ZANU PF Politburo member Jonathan Moyo has accused former Finance Minister Tendai Biti of cowardice following the latter’s announcement that he was taking a sabbatical from politics.
Moyo said opposition leaders in Zimbabwe tend to run away from responsibility.
This comes after the former CCC leader Nelson Chamisa quit the party in January this year, alleging infiltration by ZANU PF, followed by Fadzayi Mahere and Allan Markham who resigned from Parliament a few days later.
Posting on Twitter, Moyo said Biti is just like Chamisa, Mahere and Markham who “bolted out” and ran away from responsibility. He said:
<blockquote>
Tendai Biti is cut from the same cloth. Only some 60 or so days after he boldly declared that he was CCC Vice President elected by that party’s congress and that he was “going nowhere”, now he says he is actually going somewhere after all; by taking “time out”; taking a “sabbatical” to go to Washington DC, of all places.
And he’s saying this at a time when he’s in fact due to take over – something he accepted to do when he knew at that time that he was due to go to the US by this fall – as CCC acting president under the ‘rotational’ arrangement they agreed to as the ‘leadership collective’ under the ‘Gweru Resolutions’.
Effectively, like Chamisa, Mahere and Markham, Biti is bolting out. He is running away from leadership responsibility. This makes sense of their mantra that they ‘need new leaders’!
</blockquote>
Biti recently announced that he is temporarily stepping away from politics, despite earlier reports indicating that he was expected to assume the role of CCC president in rotation with the current leader, Welshman Ncube and Lynette Karenyi Kore.
Speaking on HSTV’s #FreeTalk show, Biti said he had withdrawn from politics to focus on other spaces but will remain driven to attain democratic change in Zimbabwe. 
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Biti Running Away From Responsibility, Says Jonathan Moyo

Five candidates have successfully filed their nomination papers with the Nomination Court ahead of the by-elections scheduled for April 27 in Mt Pleasant and Harare East.
According to <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/five-successfully-file-nomination-papers-for-harare-by-elections-cccc-candidate-fails-to-secure-funds/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, the submission of papers was halted precisely at 4 PM. However, the court continued its proceedings until approximately 8 PM after sitting throughout the day on Tuesday.
The candidates who successfully filed their papers include Mamuse Nason, an independent candidate, George Mashavave and Kiven Mutimbanyoka from ZANU PF, and Brian Ticky and Ropafadzo Cynthia Cheza, both independent.
David Chitimbe of Changu Chimuti Chakapinda Chapinda (CCCC), who intended to run for the Harare East seat, failed to raise the required US$1,000 nomination fees.
The candidates in the Mt Pleasant constituency are Mashavave, Ticky, and Mamuse. Meanwhile, Mutimbanyoka will be competing with Cheza in Harare East
These two constituencies became vacant when former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) legislators, Fadzayi Mahere (Mt Pleasant) and Allan Markham (Harare East), voluntarily stepped down.
Mahere and Markham formally resigned in accordance with Section 129 (1) (b) of the Constitution.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Five Candidates File Nomination Papers For Mt Pleasant And Harare East By-Elections

Disputed Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) interim secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu has said his party will support all government programmes. 
He said this at the commissioning of the Pupu memorial site monument in Lupane by President Emmerson Mnangagwa last week.
In an interview with <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local/article/200024703/tshabangu-ccc-differ-on-govt-projects">Southern Eye</a> at the event, Tshabangu, who is the CCC senator for Matabeleland North Province, said his party will support anything that is of national interest. He said:
<blockquote>
This is a very unique and important place and symbolic place for the people of Matabeleland, where the last battle of King Lobengula was fought, fighting imperialism and the whites.
This is where we say the people of Zimbabwe won in that battle, the reason why we are here, we are here to represent and compliment government programmes, we give it a thumbs up.
We are going to be visible in all events that are symbolic, anything that has a national interest we are going to support it.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, CCC steering committee treasurer Mbuso Siso, dismissed Tshabangu’s assertions, saying it is not the party’s position. Said Siso:
<blockquote>
According to the party, Tshabangu remains suspended from the party. Whatever he said at Pupu was not a statement from the party’s information desk, but his own personal statements.
His representation as the Senator of Matebeleland North (province) does not mean he represent the party.
</blockquote>
CCC has split into at least four factions since the August 2023 elections, with Tshabangu’s faction having done the greatest harm to the party by recalling dozens of elected representatives and handing the hard-won seats to ZANU PF on a silver platter.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CCC Will Support All Government Programmes - Tshabangu

George Mashavave and Kiven Mutimbanyoka have been selected to represent ZANU PF in the Mt Pleasant and Harare East constituencies, respectively, in the upcoming April by-elections.
Mashavave emerged victorious against Jaison Passade, Chris Chuchu, and Beadle Musatye Gwasira, as reported by <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/mutimbanyoka-mashavave-win-zanu-pf-harare-primaries/">The Herald</a>. Mutimbanyoka secured the win against Lynette Mahlaba.
During the primary elections, ZANU PF assigned its spokesperson, Christopher Mutsvangwa, to oversee the process in Mt Pleasant, while Supa Mandiwanzira supervised the polls in Harare East.
Both officials expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the primary elections
Speaking at a press briefing on Sunday, March 24, the Party’s National Political Commissar Mike Bimha said Mashavave and Mutimbanyoka should proceed to prepare their nomination papers so that they are ready for the nomination court sitting on March 26. He said:
<blockquote>
The primary elections were a demonstration of the democratic nature of ZANU PF. Now that the primary elections are behind us, we want all those competing to come together as we now campaign for ZANU PF representatives who will now battle it out with the opposition in the coming by-elections.
</blockquote>
The two constituencies became vacant when former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) legislators, Fadzayi Mahere (Mt Pleasant) and Allan Markham (Harare East), voluntarily stepped down.
Mahere and Markham formally resigned in accordance with Section 129 (1) (b) of the Constitution.
In the 2023 general elections, Markham received 15,642 votes, more than double the votes won by the ZANU PF candidate Mavis Gumbo (who received 7,621 votes).
It remains to be seen if Markham will contest in the upcoming by-elections and which political party he will represent.
Mahere has since announced she will not run in the by-election. She cited the unchanged conditions that prompted her initial resignation.
In her statement on Thursday, March 21, Fadzayi Mahere highlighted several issues which include the “illegal” recall of Members of Parliament by Sengezo Tshabangu, as well as Speaker Jacob Mudenda’s refusal to engage in discussions on matters of national importance and his dismissal of points of order related to sensitive issues.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mutimbanyoka, Mashavave Declared Winners In ZANU PF Harare Primaries

Fadzayi Mahere, the former Member of Parliament for Mt Pleasant (CCC), has announced that she will not participate in the upcoming by-election in her constituency. She cites the unchanged conditions that prompted her initial resignation.
In her statement on Thursday, March 21, Fadzayi Mahere highlighted several issues.
These include the “illegal” recall of Members of Parliament by Sengezo Tshabangu, as well as Speaker Jacob Mudenda’s refusal to engage in discussions on matters of national importance and his dismissal of points of order related to sensitive issues.
These factors contributed to her decision not to participate in the upcoming by-election. She said:
<blockquote>
After many consultations and personal reflection, I have decided that I will not be running in the upcoming by-election. The conditions that drove me to resign in the first place have not changed.
The reasons for my resignation include the gross disrespect of the votes cast by citizens in August 2023, the refusal by the Speaker to hear arguments on points of national interest, hijacking of the whipping system, the refusal by the Speaker to entertain points of order on sensitive matters, the unleashing of violent riot police to attack opposition MPs during parliamentary sessions, the illegal recall of opposition MPs, the banning of opposition candidates, the disregard of standing orders and parliamentary privilege, the selective application of parliamentary rules, the repeated illegal suspensions of MPs and the hijacking of the opposition parliamentary caucus.
In fact, we see the further desecration of the August House by the swearing-in of characters such as Sengezo Tshabangu who were front and centre of spitting on the will of the people.
I maintain that, in its current form, Parliament does not represent the will of the people.
I remain committed to the cause of a truly democratic Zimbabwe and will remain active, engaged and vocal on the issues that matter to the common person.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Fadzayi Mahere Won’t Run In Mt Pleasant By-election Due To Unchanged Conditions

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has announced that the nomination court for the vacant Mount Pleasant and Harare East National Assembly constituencies will convene on March 26, 2024.
These two constituencies became vacant when former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) legislators, Fadzayi Mahere (Mt Pleasant) and Allan Markham (Harare East), voluntarily stepped down.
Mahere and Markham formally resigned in accordance with Section 129 (1) (b) of the Constitution.
They resigned in solidarity with former party leader Nelson Chamisa, who had also left the CCC.
In a recent statement, ZEC said the nomination court will sit on Tuesday next week.
<blockquote>
On Tuesday 26th of March 2024, the nomination court for Harare East and Mount Pleasant National Assembly Constituencies will be receiving nomination papers. The nomination courts open from 10:00 hours to 16:00 hours.
Nomination papers can be submitted at any time soon after publication of the proclamation at the respective Harare Metropolitan Province Zec office during normal office hours.
On nomination day, that is, 26th of March 2024 nomination papers should be submitted at the respective nomination court sitting at the Magistrates Court, Rotten Row, Harare commencing at 10:00hours to 16:00hours.
The Commission urges candidates and political parties to take advantage of the window to submit nomination papers early so as to avoid inconveniences that result from non-reflection of funds on time and inadequate nominators, among others.
</blockquote>
Markham was the second CCC Member of Parliament (MP) to resign after Fadzayi Mahere.
In the 2023 general elections, Markham received 15,642 votes, more than double the votes won by the ZANU PF candidate Mavis Gumbo (who received 7,621 votes).
It remains to be seen if Mahere and Markham will contest in the upcoming by-elections and which political party they will represent.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Nomination Court Sittings For Mt Pleasant, Harare East By-elections Set For March 26

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has announced the results of two by-elections that were held on 09 March 2024.
ZANU PF won both Local Authority seats that were previously held by the opposition Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC).
By-elections were held in Ward 4, Chinhoyi Municipality and Ward 36, City of Harare.
According to ZEC, in Harare’s Ward 36, ZANU PF candidate Hilda Ruzani won with 1 202 votes. Two other candidates, who were both independent candidates, Lovejoy Chitengu and Loveness Gomba, polled 1 115 and 289 votes, respectively.
Chitengu served for a short period as Harare mayor after he was reportedly handpicked by former CCC leader Nelson Chamisa.
Chitengu and his predecessor, Ian Makone, were both recalled by Sengezo Tshabangu posing as CCC Interim Secretary General.
In Ward 4, Chinhoyi Municipality, ZANU PF candidate Ignatius Zvigadza received 728 votes, Archbold Muzanenhamo (Independent), garnered 675 votes, and Ignatius Chari (Independent), won 13 votes.
A CCC faction led by Tshabangu, which triggered the by-elections after recalling councillors elected in the 23 August 2023 general elections, failed to field candidates for the two Wards.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF Wins Two Council Seats In 09 March By-elections

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has proclaimed the date for the sitting of the nomination court, and the date for by-elections for Harare East and Mt Pleasant National Assembly constituencies.
The Harare East and Mt Pleasant seats fell vacant following the resignations of Allan Norman Markham and Fadzayi Mahere, respectively.
Both MPs were members of the opposition Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC).
In terms of Proclamation 1 of 2024 in Statutory Instrument 37A of 2024 published in the supplement to the Government Gazette Extraordinary dated 05 March 2024, the nomination court shall sit at the Magistrates Court Rotten Row, Harare on 26 March. The by-elections will be held on 27 April 2024. The proclamation by President Mnangagwa reads in part:
<blockquote>
WHEREAS, in terms of section 129(1)(b) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, the seats of members of Parliament for Harare East and Mount Pleasant have become vacant by reason of resignation of Markham Rusty and Mahere Fadzayi on the 20th of February, 2024, who were the elected members of Parliament for the respective constituencies;
AND WHEREAS it is provided by section 39(2) of the Electoral Act [Chapter 2:13], that after the President has been notified in terms of the said section of vacancies in the membership of Parliament, he shall issue a proclamation ordering a new election to fill the vacancies in the same manner, mutatis mutandis, as is provided in section 38 of the said Act in regard to a general election;
AND WHEREAS, the Speaker of Parliament has notified me on the 20th of February, 2024, in writing, of vacancies for the afore-mentioned constituencies:
NOW, THEREFORE, under and by virtue of the powers vested in the President as afore said, I do, by this proclamation—
(a) order new elections for the constituencies of Harare East and Mount Pleasant; and
(b) fix Tuesday the 26th day of March, 2024, as the date on which the nomination court shall sit, commencing at 10 o’clock in the morning, at the Magistrates Court Rotten Row, Harare, for the purpose of receiving nomination of candidates for election as a member of National Assembly Constituencies for Harare East and Mount Pleasant; and
(c) fix Saturday the 27th of April, 2024, as the day on which a poll shall be taken if a poll becomes necessary in terms of section 46(17)(c) of the Electoral Act [Chapter 2:13].
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Harare East, Mount Pleasant By-elections Set For 27 April

Sengezo Tshabangu and Kucaca Phulu, a former PDP vice president, were among nine Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) members sworn in as senators at the New Parliament Building in Mt Hampden this Tuesday.
The other CCC members sworn in as senators include, Lilian Mlilo, Linda Sibanda and Collet Ndhlovu all from Bulawayo Province, Teresa Kabondo and Grace Mampande from Matabeleland North Province, and Maxwell Mdhluri and Sam Chapfudza from Manicaland and Masvingo provinces respectively.
Tshabangu is from Matabeleland North, while Phulu is from Bulawayo.
This comes after a Government gazette’s General Notice 291 of 2024 in which the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) chairperson Priscilla Chigumba confirmed the list of the new senators.
The gazette also confirmed the list that will fill Proportional Representation vacancies in the National Assembly and these include Nomvula Mguni, Otilia Sibanda, Lungile Ncube and Sikhuphukile Dube all from Bulawayo.
Sibongile Maphosa will fill the same vacancy for Matabeleland South Province.
Tshabangu recalled several CCC senators and PR MPs in the National Assembly who were sworn in soon after the August 2023 general elections so that he and his close colleagues would grab the vacant seats and join the “gravy train”.
Tshabangu was virtually unknown before the general elections, and ordinary voters were left asking how he acquired the authority to expel their representatives with scant regard for their expectations in defiance of the party’s then-president Nelson Chamisa.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Tshabangu Sworn In As A Senator

CCC activist Sengezo Tshabangu, who claims to be the party’s interim secretary general, and eight other party members were appointed senators with effect from 01 March 2024.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission published General Notice 293 of 2024 in the Government Gazette notifying the public that Tshabangu and eight others had been appointed as Senators with effect from 01 March.
The appointed Senators, who are expected to be sworn in next week, were nominated by a CCC faction led by Tshabangu to fill the vacancies in the Senate following the recall of incumbent members.
The appointed Senators are: Mlilo Lilian (Bulawayo), Phulu Kucaca Ivumile (Bulawayo), Sibanda Linda (Bulawayo), Ndhlovu Collet (Bulawayo), all from Bulawayo province; Mdhluri Maxwell (Manicaland); Chapfudza Sam (Masvingo); Kabondo Teresa (Matabeleland North), Tshabangu Sengezo (Matabeleland North) and Mumpande Grace (Matabeleland North).
ZEC also gazetted the following women’s quota members who were nominated by Tshabangu to fill the vacancies in the National Assembly following the recall of incumbent members by Tshabangu.
Those who have been appointed to the National Assembly with effect from 01 March 2024 are: Mguni Nomvula (Bulawayo); Sibanda Otilia (Bulawayo); Ncube Lungile (Bulawayo); Dube Sikhuphukile (Bulawayo); and Maphosa Sibongile (Matabeleland South).
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Tshabangu, Eight Others Appointed To The Senate

The Electoral Court has reserved judgement in the case of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) candidate for Gwanda South National Assembly constituency in the August 2023 general elections, Patrick Dube, who is challenging ZANU PF MP Omphile Marupi’s election.
The results of the Gwanda South constituency as announced by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) were as follows: Omphile Marupi (ZANU PF) – 7 941, Patrick Dube (CCC) – 5 099, Timothy Nare (ZAPU) – 270, and Happy Gumbo (UZA) – 269.
As reported by <a href="https://cite.org.zw/high-court-reserves-judgement-in-gwanda-south-election-case/">CITE</a>, Dube, represented by Mathonsi Ncube Law Chambers, claimed Marupi benefitted from various electoral irregularities such as voter intimidation, malpractices, rigging and vote buying.
Dube requested the court to nullify Marupi’s victory as the MP and order fresh elections in Gwanda South.
Judge David Mangota of the Bulawayo Division of the High Court heard the case on 22 February 2024, and reserved judgement.
In his election petition, the CCC candidate alleged that ZANU PF activists placed tables within 300 metres of the polling stations, thereby intimidating voters. He said:
<blockquote>
In some tables, one Rosemary Maphosa of Chief Nhlamba Sengezane Village, Gwanda amongst others manned a table and recorded a register of names of people as they entered and exited polling stations.
These persons were informing voters that they should vote properly and vote for ZANU PF and not any other party. These tables were located in all the 11 wards. 
I am advised, which advice I hold to be true and correct, that these actions were unlawful and against the provisions of the Electoral Act and practice.
</blockquote>
However, Marupi through his lawyers, Nqobizitha Ndlovu of Cheda and Cheda Associates, said Dube’s petition was “nothing but just a fishing expedition which amounts to frivolous and vexatious litigation.” Said Marupi:
<blockquote>
If indeed the alleged ZANU PF-branded tables were within 300 metres of polling stations, why did the petitioner not report the unlawful conduct to the police?
It is very improbable that the petitioner, a candidate, would have witnessed such unlawful acts in 11 wards and failed to make a single police report.
</blockquote>
Marupi was recently appointed Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services.
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Electoral Court Reserves Judgement In Gwanda South Election Case

The opposition Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) party has failed to field candidates in two Wards for the by-elections set for 06 April 2024.
A CCC faction fronted by Sengezo Tshabangu allowed ZANU PF to take parliamentary and local authority seats that had been won by the opposition party in the August 2023 elections after it failed to field candidates in subsequent by-elections.
The by-elections were held following the recall of the sitting parliamentarians and councillors by Tshabangu, who claims to be CCC’s interim secretary general.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) on Wednesday, 28 February, announced the names of the candidates nominated for the 06 April by-elections. It said:
<blockquote>
It is hereby notified, in terms of section 125(4) of the Electoral Act [Chapter 2:13], that at the close of sitting of the nomination court which sat on Friday 23 February 2024, the candidates listed in the Schedule below were duly nominated for election as councillors in the Wards next to their names. Accordingly, polling shall take place on Saturday, 6 April 2024, from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. for the purpose of electing the councillors for the said wards.
</blockquote>
The nominated candidates for Kusile RDC’s Ward 13 are Henry Moyo (UZA), Celani Ndimande (Independent), and Donald Chewareerwa (ZANU PF).
The nominated candidates for Redcliff Municipality’s Ward 3 are Rangarirai Sibanda (Independent), Christina Sigauke (ZANU PF), and Tinei Siziba (Independent).
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CCC Fails To Field Candidates For 06 April By-elections

The Carter Center released the <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/zimbabwe-final-2023-elections.pdf">final report</a> from its international election observation mission to Zimbabwe on 23 August 2023, on Monday, 12 February 2024.
In the 89-page report, the Carter Center offers recommendations to the Zimbabwean government to help bring its electoral processes closer in line with international standards for democratic elections. Part of the report reads:
<blockquote>
Recommendations
In the spirit of collaboration and support for Zimbabwean institutions and people, and with a view to inform the electoral reform process, The Carter Center offers the following final recommendations for consideration by the government, National Assembly, Zimbabwean Election Commission, political parties and other electoral stakeholders.
To the Government and Parliament of Zimbabwe:
<ul>
<li>Remove repressive provisions in laws such as the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act and the Patriotic Act, as well as the Private Voluntary Organizations legislation, to allow full participation of citizens in public affairs, including respect for the freedoms of assembly, association, speech, and the press, as established under the Zimbabwe Constitution and in line with the country’s regional and international human rights commitments.</li>
<li>To ensure a coherent electoral framework, review the Electoral Act and align it with the 2013 constitution and regional and international standards adopted by Zimbabwe, as well as best practices for democratic elections. The reform process should take place well in advance of the next election period, and within an inclusive and transparent consultation process.</li>
<li>Amend the Electoral Act to…
<ul>
<li>Enhance the autonomy of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission and acknowledge its constitutional mandate through administrative and regulatory measures, without approval required from the Ministry of Justice. Introduce mechanisms to address the lack of public confidence in the impartiality and inclusivity of the ZEC’s appointment mechanisms as well as recruitment of lower-level election commission members. In addition to publishing the names of presiding officers in the official Gazette, publish clear selection criteria prior to recruitment.</li>
<li>Introduce provisions that prohibit misuse of state resources and the advantage of incumbency, to promote and contribute to a more level playing field. Authorities should be sensitive to all instances of abuse of state resources and take timely and effective action to address any violations.</li>
<li>Encompass campaigning on social media, giving the ZEC a mandate to monitor the campaign on social media, and the power to investigate, warn, and sanction violators.</li>
<li>Ensure that the ZEC informs the public on a regular basis in order to increase and maintain transparency and enhance its credibility, including through briefing papers posted on its website and regular briefings for candidate representatives and observers in a timely and consistent manner.</li>
<li>Ensure that the ZEC publicizes promptly all scanned protocols and election results, disaggregated by polling station.</li>
<li>Ensure that the ZEC publishes regular, disaggregated updates of the voters’ roll to increase transparency and help build trust in the accuracy of the registration process. Also, require the ZEC to provide copies of the final voters’ roll in a user-friendly format and in a timely manner.</li>
<li>Guarantee the representation of young women on proportional representation seats with stronger safeguards for priority listing, supported by sanctions and incentives, including financial, such waiving nomination fees for young candidates.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Review and amend existing mechanisms aimed at promoting youth and women’s participation to ensure greater representation in elective offices in line with the constitution and in close consultation with all relevant stakeholders.</li>
<li>To enhance trust in the judiciary, protect its independence and preserve the role that it plays in safeguarding the human rights and freedoms, amend the appointment procedures for judges to guarantee separation of powers and to not allow for executive involvement in the selection of High Court judges.</li>
<li>Amend the legal framework to
<ul>
<li>Clearly delineate the jurisdictions of the High Court and the Electoral Court to avoid any overlap or delays. The timeframe for election-related disputes should be shortened to ensure adjudication of cases under expedited procedures, especially if filed on election day or the days preceding it to allow complainants to fully exercise their rights.</li>
<li>Clearly distinguish which types of complaints could be examined by the ZEC in public sessions with clear procedures and timelines in place, while the ZEC’s decisions on electoral matters should continue to be subject to appeal in court.</li>
<li> Ensure that any security deposits required by the courts to cover potential settlements are not prohibitive to enhance access to justice.</li>
<li>Amend the legal framework to prohibit campaigning by civil servants and senior officials on social media and provide for enforcement mechanisms and proportionate sanctions</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Revisit and revise Sections 129 and 278 of the constitution, regarding recall processes, to include more safeguards against abuse or manipulation by political parties and leaders seeking to settle political scores.</li>
<li>Introduce regulations on campaign expenditures, including regular submission of financial reports by political parties/independent candidates, the publication of financial reports accessible to the general public; and the introduction of graduated sanctions for violations of campaign finance regulations.</li>
<li>Introduce a mechanism to ensure that political parties and candidates comply with any campaign finance regulations put in place, and that trained and competent professionals within an independent institution are mandated to audit campaign expenses.</li>
<li>Repeal legal provisions criminalizing free speech online and offline, such as those in the Patriotic Act and the Cyber and Data Protection Act (CDPA).</li>
<li>Introduce mechanisms to ensure that the accreditation of election observers is the sole responsibility of the ZEC.</li>
<li>Introduce enabling legislation to ensure that political parties respect the constitutional provisions regarding the participation of women, youth and people with disabilities.</li>
<li>Support the selection and nomination of women candidates, including for proportional representation seats, by requiring their inclusion on party lists and applying incentives and sanctions to parties that do not comply with the requirements, including financial.</li>
<li>To increase participation of people with disabilities in political life, introduce enabling legislation to introduce temporary quotas for people with disabilities for the National Assembly, provincial/metropolitan and local councils with mandatory requirements for political parties to nominate people with disabilities supported by sanctions. This should be preceded by a participatory consultative process with relevant stakeholders.</li>
</ul>
To the Government of Zimbabwe:
<ul>
<li>Put in place effective mechanisms to protect space for participation in public affairs for all stakeholders and to reassure civil society and other stakeholders that they are free to operate and can do so without repercussions.</li>
<li>Implement proportionate sanctions with effective enforcement for the partisanship of traditional leaders and state and local officials.</li>
<li>Ensure that access to the internet is affordable and reliable, particularly during peak periods of public interest events, such as national elections.</li>
</ul>
To the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission
<ul>
<li>To uphold the principle of equality of the vote, implement constituency boundary delimitation in line with constitutional requirements. Delimitation should take place well in advance of the next election period and within a transparent consultation process.</li>
<li>To give voters equal access to voting, complete all pre-election preparations, including delivery of ballots to polling stations, within legal deadlines.</li>
<li>To increase and maintain transparency and credibility, provide information on a regular basis and allow for meaningful observation of activities. Information on the ZEC’s decision-making and all other activities should be made available to the public through briefing papers posted on the official website and regular briefings for candidate representatives and observers in a timely and consistent manner. Consider developing a proactive communication strategy for the public in general and for political parties in particular.</li>
<li>Promptly publicize all scanned protocol and election results, disaggregated by polling by polling station.</li>
<li>Publish regular, disaggregated updates of the voters’ roll to increase transparency and contribute to building trust in the accuracy of the voter registration process.</li>
<li>Improve the comprehensiveness and accuracy of the voter registry.</li>
<li>Decrease nomination fees and simplify payment procedures to allow all citizens an equal opportunity to engage in political processes and stand as a candidate.</li>
<li>Standardize accreditation for voter education as well as for observation of various stages of the electoral process.</li>
<li>Conduct more comprehensive voter education over a longer period in advance of elections. ZEC’s efforts should cover the right to vote and stand for office, along with all voting procedures, the voters’ roll, and the tallying of results. Also, encourage and facilitate CSO engagement in voter education in a timely manner. Engage CSOs well in advance of the polls and allow them to use their own materials and methods.</li>
<li>Ensure the timely public release of information related to media coverage of the election and consider the publication of regular media monitoring results.</li>
<li>Provide detailed and easily accessible information on media-related complaint mechanisms.</li>
<li>Guarantee citizens the right to privacy of their personal data, and protection against unsolicited information, including political propaganda during election periods.</li>
<li>Conduct investigations in a timely manner and hold perpetrators accountable.</li>
<li>Lift accreditation requirements for representatives of mass media outlets to promote pluralistic and unimpeded reporting on the election campaign.</li>
<li>Provide sufficient lighting in all polling stations, including temporary sites such as tents, to improve visibility for voters with visual impairments so they can vote without assistance.</li>
<li>Reduce or eliminate accreditation fees for observers (international and domestic) to encourage robust engagement of civil society in elections.</li>
<li>Implement and follow special procedures and safeguards to ensure secrecy of the police, military, and other institution-based voting.</li>
<li>Fully utilize MPLCs as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism. MPLC meetings should be held on an agreed-upon schedule and their work based on clear processes. to enable the ZEC to more readily resolve disputes.</li>
<li>Conduct more rigorous and targeted efforts to register young (first-time) voters. including in rural and remote areas, as well as young people with disability.</li>
<li>To promote more active participation of people with disabilities in electoral processes, improve disability-related data collection and analysis in various stages of the electoral process, including voter registration, voter education, candidate nomination, and polling.</li>
<li>Introduce additional measures to guarantee the right to vote in secrecy, and enable voters with visual impairments to vote without assistance, such as tactile ballot guides, as well as improved lighting in polling stations, including temporary structures such as tents, or by adjusting the voting hours.</li>
</ul>
To the Judiciary
<ul>
<li>Provide access to information on election-related cases and consider timely publication of a complaints register on the web to enhance the transparency of the dispute resolution process.</li>
</ul>
To the State-Owned Broadcaster
<ul>
<li>Discharge your constitutional and legal duties, and ensure fair and impartial treatment of 
all candidates.</li>
</ul>
To All Stakeholders
<ul>
<li>Act collectively to prevent the use and spread of misinformation, derogatory, or incendiary speech.</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Carter Center Issues Final Report On 2023 Zim Elections, Here Are The Recommendations

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has announced the names of candidates who successfully filed nomination papers to contest in by-elections scheduled for 09 March 2024.
A by-election will be held in Ward Chinhoyi Municipality and another one in the City of Harare’s Ward 36  on 09 March. ZEC said:
<blockquote>
IT is hereby notified, in terms of section 125(4) of the Electoral Act [Chapter 2:13], that at the close of sitting of the nomination court which sat on Tuesday 6 February 2024, the candidates listed in the Schedule below were duly nominated for election as councillors in the Wards next to their names. Accordingly, polling shall take place on Saturday, 9 March 2024, from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. for the purpose of electing the councilors for the said wards.
</blockquote>
In Chinhoyi Ward 4, there are three candidates namely Ignatius Chari (Independent), Archbold Muzanenhamo (Independent), and Ignatius Zvigadza (ZANU PF).
In Harare’s Ward 36, former Mayor Lovejoy Chitengu (Independent), will square off with Loveness Gomba (Independent), and Hilda Ruzani (ZANU PF).
CCC, which triggered the by-elections after recalling councillors elected in the 23 August 2023 general elections, failed to field candidates for the two Wards.
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ZEC Announces 09 March By-elections Nomination Results

The Carter Center has released the <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/zimbabwe-final-2023-elections.pdf">final report</a> from its international election observation mission to Zimbabwe on 23 August 2023.
The report, which was released on 12 February 2024, concluded that the overall electoral process did not meet Zimbabwe’s regional and international commitments.
The Carter Center said the election took place in a restricted political environment with an unlevel playing field which prevented the expression of the will of Zimbabweans.
It said the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) lacked independence and transparency, undermining the credibility of the process.
ZEC failed to avail critical election information, including the final voters’ roll and list of polling stations to stakeholders.
According to the Carter Center, only a few electoral reforms were enacted before the election, while laws restricting freedoms of speech, movement, and association increased political tensions and polarization among the electorate and intimidated civil society groups leading up to election day.
It noted that despite election day being largely peaceful and administered well by polling officers, extensive voting delays caused by ballot shortages in several constituencies, including in some urban wards considered to be opposition strongholds, likely affected voter turnout.
In the report, the Carter Center offers recommendations to the Zimbabwean government to help bring its electoral processes closer in line with international standards for democratic elections.
These include the removal of repressive laws such as the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act and the Patriotic Act, as well as the Private Voluntary Organisations legislation.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Carter Center Issues Final Report On 2023 Zimbabwean Harmonised Elections

The opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has nominated five candidates to fill party list vacancies at the City of Bulawayo as well as the Epworth Local Board.
According to a notice by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission’s (ZEC) Chief Elections Officer Utloile Silaigwana, four of the candidates will fill in vacancies in Bulawayo while one will fill in the Epworth vacancy.
Those who were recalled in Bulawayo are Cathrine Sarah Cronje, Tabeth Mhizha, Dorcas Sibanda and Zibusiso Tshongwe, while Anna Sande was recalled from the Epworth Local Board. Said Silaigwana:
<blockquote>
The public is hereby notified, in terms of Section 39(6) of the Electoral Act [Chapter2:13], that the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party has nominated registered voters in Column 2 to fill the vacancies in the specified local authorities that occurred following the recall of persons in Colum 3 who were members of the said local authorities by virtue of section 277(4) of the Constitution. The nominated for the City of Bulawayo are Mercy Furanayi, Velile Mpofu, Irene Moyo and Siboniso Moyo while at Epworth Melody Manondo has been nominated.
</blockquote>
He said any voter wishing to object to the nomination of each of the persons who were nominated by CCC to fill the party list vacancies may lodge them in writing with the Chief Elections Officer, Mahachi Quantum Building, corner Kaguvi and Jason Moyo Avenue, Harare, or post them to P. Bag 7782 Causeway Harare, within 14 days from the date of publication of this notice, setting forth the reasons for the objection.
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CCC Nominates Candidates To Fill Five Council PR Seats

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) appears to have closed the door on calls for fresh elections in Zimbabwe after the regional bloc’s secretariat, as well as the African Union (AU) endorsed a project being spearheaded by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government.
As reported by <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200022831/sadc-shuts-door-on-zims-fresh-poll-calls">NewsDay</a>, the Zimbabwean government is supporting the multi-million-dollar Museum of African Liberation in Harare which is being implemented by the Institute of African Knowledge (INSTAK).
Last week, both SADC and the AU signalled that they will work with Mnangagwa’s government on the project.
On 25 January, Mnangagwa’s special envoy, Simbarashe Mumbengegwi, who is a former foreign affairs minister, was in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to meet the chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat.
Mahamat said the AU Commission was eager to collaborate on the project.
Four days after meeting Mahamat, Mumbengegwi was at the SADC headquarters in Gaborone, Botswana, to discuss a similar memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the bloc’s executive secretary, Elias Magosi.
An official report published on the SADC website after the meeting said:
<blockquote>
Magosi highlighted that the project resonates with the region’s objectives, among others, the operationalisation of the mechanism to recognise and honour the founders of SADC for their contribution to the establishment of the organisation and the pursuit of regional integration.
In this regard, further engagements regarding the project and MoU, as well as follow-ups, will be conducted between SADC and INSTAK in collaboration with the Zimbabwean embassy in Botswana.
</blockquote>
Collaboration of the project between SADC and Mnangagwa’s administration indicates the bloc has put the Zimbabwe election issue to bed despite the SADC Election Observer Mission (SEOM) saying the elections fell short of meeting regional standards.
Posting on X, journalist and Mnangagwa critic Hopewell Chin’ono said SADC has moved on from Zimbabwe’s “shambolic” elections. He wrote:
<blockquote>
Well, SADC is engaged on Zanu PF regime things fellow compatriots. The executive secretary of SADC met with Mnangagwa’s envoy, Simbarashe Mumbengegwi to talk about, wait for it, the Liberation Museum being built in Harare.
Do you still believe the lies that SADC is coming to deal with the shambolic electoral issues?
</blockquote>
According to results announced by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), Mnangagwa secured 52.6% of the vote while his main challenger, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa received 44.03% of the vote.
Chamisa rejected the election results and launched a diplomatic offensive in SADC countries while pushing for fresh polls.
However, Chamisa has since abandoned CCC after losing control of the party to former MDC youth activist Sengezo Tshabangu who has been enjoying the support of State institutions.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Prospects Of SADC Pushing For Fresh Zimbabwe Polls Receding

Chikomba District Development Coordinator (DDC), Michael Mariga has lifted a suspension he imposed on four Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) in Chikomba after they filed an urgent chamber application challenging the suspension.
The four CCC councillors are Collen Zvarevashe (Ward 11), Amos Reza (Ward 10), Fexil Zhakata (Ward 9) and Ishmael Maukazuva (Ward 12).
A letter seen by <a href="https://masvingomirror.com/mariga-lifts-chikomba-ccc-councillors-suspension/">The Mirror</a> dated 25 January 2024, addressed to the four councillors’ lawyers Mabundu and Ndlovu Legal Practitioners from Mariga’s lawyer Herbert Mutasa of Gill, Godlonton and Gerrans Legal Practitioners confirmed the lifting of the suspension. The letter reads in part:
<blockquote>
We refer to the above matter and our telephone conversation earlier today. During the aforesaid telephone conversation, Ms Ndou told us that your clients will withdraw their urgent chamber application if a written undertaking is given on the terms that we proposed to you before.
Here now is our clients’ undertaking, your clients will not be hindered from discharging their duties as councillors for their respective wards and your clients’ allowances will not be withheld.
</blockquote>
Mariga suspended the quartet after they applied a declarature to nullify all council committees at the High Court in Harare arguing that the committees were imposed by the council chairperson Israel Dhikinya without conducting elections thereby violating the Rural Councils Act.
The four CCC councillors then filed an urgent chamber application challenging the suspension.
In their application, the councillors argued that they did not receive any official communication notifying them of the suspension.
They also argued that Mariga does not have the authority to suspend them.
Meanwhile, the CCC councillors are continuing with their application to nullify all council committees.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chikomba DDC Lifts CCC Councillors Suspension

The ruling party in Zimbabwe, ZANU PF, has gained a two-thirds majority in Parliament after winning at least two constituencies in recent by-elections. These by-elections took place on Saturday 4 February 2024 to fill vacancies left by the recalls of Members of Parliament and councillors by CCC’s disputed interim secretary general Sengezo Tshabangu. Six constituencies held by-elections, including Chegutu West, Seke, Goromonzi South, Mkoba North, Pelandaba-Tshabalala, and Zvimba East.
ZANU PF was able to secure a two-thirds parliamentary majority, which they had failed to achieve in the general elections held on 23-24 August 2023. They only needed to win three seats to reach this majority. They now have 190 seats in the 280-member National Assembly.
In Marondera, ZANU PF won all three vacant council seats. In Ward 10, ZANU PF received 489 votes compared to CCC’s 152. In Ward 8, ZANU PF had 435 votes while CCC had 121. In Ward 3, ZANU PF received 325 votes while CCC had 73.
Zvimba East constituency:
ZANU PF’s Kudakwashe Mananzva won the Zvimba East constituency with 10,359 votes, defeating independent candidate Oliver Mutasa and CCC’s Agrippa Alberito, who received 1992 and 855 votes respectively. Oliver Mutasa, a recalled CCC MP, ran as an independent candidate.
Pelandaba-Tshabalala constituency:
Joseph Tshuma of ZANU PF won the Pelandaba-Tshabalala constituency with 1845 votes, defeating CCC’s Moreblessing Tembo (464 votes) and DOP’s Abraham Yona Nkomo (156 votes). This constituency was previously represented by Gift ‘Ostallos’ Siziba before his recall by the CCC.
Seke Constituency:
Kashambe Munyaradzi Tobias, who belongs to the ZANU PF party, has been elected as the Member of Parliament for Seke Constituency. He received 8,586 votes with Everisto Chisi getting 669 votes, while Willard T. Madzimbamuto received 2401 votes. 
Mkoba North:
ZANU PF also claimed Mkoba North, with candidate Ncube Edgar receiving 2,415 votes and defeating Patrick Tayiya of DOP, who received 1,663 votes. The seat was previously held by CCC MP Amos Chibaya, who was recalled and then barred from standing in the by-election by a court.
Chegutu West Constituency:
Shakemore Timburwa of ZANU PF won the by-election in Chegutu West Constituency, becoming the MP with 6,697 votes. The previous CCC candidate, Admore Chivero, lost as an independent candidate, receiving 2,626 votes. Gift Konjana of MDC-A received 668 votes.
Goromonzi South Constituency:
In Goromonzi South Constituency, Washington Zhanda of ZANU PF won with 6,865 votes, while Reuben Chikudo of CCC received 1,067 votes.
The Election Resource Centre, an election watchdog, noted that voter turnout remained extremely low, averaging 13% at observed polling stations by noon on election day.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

ZANU PF Secures Two-Thirds Majority In Zimbabwe Parliament After February By-Elections

Disputed interim Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu said the party will win the Pelandaba-Tshabalala constituency in today’s by-election.
Speaking to <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/southerneye/news/article/200022620/tshabangus-ccc-confident-of-victory">Southern Eye</a>, Tshabangu’s spokesperson Khaliphani Phugeni expressed confidence their candidate, Moreblessing Tembo, will win. He said:
<blockquote>
Campaigning was very peaceful, we were going door-to-door, which we found to be a very effective method of selling our candidate to the voters and we do it with the candidate so she can meet the voters face to face.
They asked questions and she answered, we also distributed flyers and pasted posters.
We feel the ground is fertile and we are very optimistic of a win.
</blockquote>
ZANU PF Bulawayo provincial spokesperson Archibald Chiponda, however, said their candidate Joseph Tshuma, a former MP for Mpopoma, is not an outsider but is known in the constituency. Said Tshuma:
<blockquote>
He is a known member of the Bulawayo community he is seeking to represent. We are coming from general elections and more by-elections, so we are prepared in terms of campaign preparedness, this is something as an organisation we are very used to.
</blockquote>
The Pelandaba-Tshabalala National Assembly constituency seat was won by CCC’s Gift “Ostallos” Siziba in the 2023 general elections but he was later recalled by Tshabangu.
Siziba successfully filed nomination papers to contest the seat in today’s by-elections on a CCC ticket but Tshabangu obtained a court order to bar him (Siziba) and more than 20 other candidates from running under the party’s banner.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Tshabangu’s CCC Confident Of Victory

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) says it is 100 per cent ready to conduct by-elections this Saturday, with the distribution of ballot papers already done.
ZEC vice chairperson Rodney Kiwa said that about 230 400 ballot papers have been printed for the six constituencies, while 136 850 ballot papers were printed for local authority by-elections.
552 polling stations will used in the by-elections.
Six National Assembly constituencies will be having by-elections, that is, Seke, Goromonzi South, Pelandaba-Tashabalala, Chegutu West, Zvimba East, and Mkoba North.
On Friday, disputed CCC interim secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu successfully obtained leave of the High Court to execute the court’s judgment, granted two weeks ago, barring the 23 CCC party candidates from contesting in the by-elections.
Justice Pisirayi Kwenda, who presided over the case a fortnight ago, ruled in Tshabangu’s favour again and granted the latter leave to execute pending an appeal by the party’s recalled elected representatives in the Supreme Court.
Those barred from contesting in the polls on a CCC ticket include deputy spokesperson Gift “Ostallos” Siziba who was a legislator for Pelandaba-Tshabalala, the former CCC Chief Whip Amos Chibaya who was Mkoba North Member of Parliament, and Stephen Chagwiza who was representing Goromonzi South.
Former Harare Mayor Ian Makone who was Councillor for Ward 18 is also among the 20 councillors who were barred from contesting in today’s by-elections.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZEC Says Ready For Today’s By-elections

The High Court in Harare on Friday, 02 February granted CCC’s disputed Interim Secretary General, Sengezo Tshabangu, leave to execute pending an appeal by the party’s recalled elected representatives in the Supreme Court, the court’s judgment which removed the names of the affected members from the ballot papers for tomorrow’s by-elections.
Tshabangu approached the High Court after the former MPs and Councillors, whom he recalled, among them Amos Chibaya and Gift “Ostallos” Siziva, successfully filed nomination papers to contest the 03 February by-elections.
The former CCC MPs and councillors then appealed against the High Court ruling at the Supreme Court, which is yet to make a ruling on the application.
Since it is a generally acceptable principle that at common law the noting of an appeal suspends the operation of a judgment, Tshabangu approached the High Court to ensure that the ruling that barred the recalled members from running in tomorrow’s by-elections, is enforced pending appeal.
In his ruling, Justice Pisirayi Kwenda declared:
<blockquote>
The application be and is hereby granted.
The applicants be and are hereby granted leave to execute this court’s judgment in case no HCH 197/24 pending the appeal in case no SC44/24.
Each party shall bear its costs.
</blockquote>
This means that the likes of Chibaya and Siziva will not stand for Mkoba North and Pelandala-Tshabalala, respectively, as CCC candidates in the 03 February by-elections.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

03 Feb. By-elections: High Court Shuts Door On Chibaya, Ostallos

Forever Associates of Zimbabwe Trust (FAZ), a ZANU PF proxy infamous for allegedly intimidating rural voters during the August 2023 general elections, has allegedly deployed its agents to six constituencies holding by-elections on 03 February.
By-elections will be held in Pelandaba-Tshabalala, Mkoba North, Chegutu West, Zvimba East, Seke, and Goromonzi South following recalls of the constituency legislators, all sponsored by CCC, by the party’s disputed interim secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu.
According to <a href="https://newshubzim.co.zw/2024/02/01/faz-in-mass-deployments-ahead-of-weekend-by-elections/">NewsHub</a>, FAZ, which is linked to the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO), has deployed hundreds of its agents to the constituencies to monitor the situation, gather intelligence and covertly intimidate voters.
Kudakwashe Mavula Munsaka, the FAZ president, confirmed the mass deployments to the NewsHub. He said:
<blockquote>
Our organisation prioritises ZANU PF campaigns and each time the party is going into an election, we go on the ground to work. This has happened with regard to the coming Saturday by-elections.
At present, our volunteers (agents) are focusing on campaigning and we are yet to decide as to whether they should be party agents.
</blockquote>
A reported 5 000 FAZ agents were deployed throughout the country to clandestinely gather voter data and collect intelligence that was transmitted to the CIO ahead of the August 2023 general elections.
Just before polls opened on 23 August 2023, FAZ distributed fliers meant to mislead voters that the opposition had disengaged from the polls but the campaign was largely ignored.
FAZ agents also established “exit poll” booths and tables within and outside polling stations.
This was condemned by observer missions as well as the opposition who said the move was a strategy meant to intimidate voters.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

FAZ In Mass Deployments Ahead Of 03 February By-elections

The Government says former ICT Minister <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Nelson_Chamisa">Nelson Chamisa</a>‘s decision to quit CCC “is a non-event, which is not surprising”.
In a 13-page statement released on Thursday, but dated 24 January 2024, the second anniversary of the formation of the party, Chamisa said CCC has been “contaminated” and “hijacked” by the ZANU PF-led government.
In response to the announcement, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Jenfan Muswere, told <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/chamisa-reaches-political-waterloo-govt-says-its-a-non-event-not-surprising/">The Herald</a> on Wednesday night that Chamisa’s resignation from CCC was not surprising. Said Muswere:
<blockquote>
[Chamisa’s resignation] is a non-event, which is not surprising given that the CCC formation originates from various MDC formations riddled with infighting, internal contradictions, dictatorship, puppetry and leadership deficiency.
The rantings and misleading empty statement is not based on law, but on imagination, lack of understanding of the legislation related to electoral laws, the role and mandate of observer missions and deficiency in the running and management of a political party.
Historically, opposition formations are in the habit of donating their leadership or partners to Government or ZANU PF, but after they make amends, they have never reverted to correct their misinformation to the constituencies.
If you analyse most of the members of the structure-less opposition have been part of different formations and have along the way been donated in the media to Government or the ruling party in the past.
</blockquote>
Chamisa won about 44% of the votes in last year’s presidential election which was condemned by the SADC Electoral Observer Mission (SEOM) and other international election observers as not free and fair.
The 45-year-old Christian pastor and lawyer’s move to quit CCC came after the State effectively handed over the party to <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Sengezo_Tshabangu">Sengezo Tshabangu</a>, an opposition activist who claims to be CCC interim secretary general.
Chamisa recently recalled Harare mayor Jacob Mafume, but his communication to the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works was ignored, yet the same Ministry does not hesitate to enforce Tshabangu’s letters to recall CCC councillors.
Chamisa was previously the leader of the MDC Alliance which he quit in 2022 after the State handed the party over to Thokozani Khupe through a controversial High Court ruling that was upheld by the Supreme Court in March 2020. He then announced the formation of CCC that same year.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Says Chamisa's Resignation From CCC Is "A Not-event"

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) said that it is ready for the 03 February 2023 by-elections.
The by-elections were necessitated by the recall of sitting MPs and councillors, who were elected under the CCC banner in the August 2023 General Elections, by disputed interim secretary-general, <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Sengezo_Tshabangu">Sengezo Tshabangu</a>.
ZEC vice chairperson <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Rodney_Kiwa">Rodney Kiwa</a> on Monday told <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/all-in-place-for-feb-3-by-elections/">The Herald</a> that the printing of ballots started on Saturday, while training of officials to run the elections is currently underway.
Kiwa also said at least 230 000 ballot papers for the National Assembly elections will be printed and 144 000 will be printed for the local authorities’ polls. He said:
<blockquote>
We had budgeted for plus or minus US$6 million, but now that there will be fewer people on the ballot papers, I think the budget will also go down.
Yes, our constituency election officers, ward election officers, election agents and everyone else underwent a training programme for the election to make sure that everyone is clear about what is expected of them on election day.
We have 552 polling stations, election material and equipment in place and we are printing 230 400 ballot papers for National Assembly then 144 000 for local authorities and this will be done by the printing and minting company of Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
On 19 January, the Harare Division of the High Court upheld a challenge by Tshabangu to bar 23 recalled National Assembly and local authorities candidates from participating in the polls. Said Kiwa:
<blockquote>
Everything is now in place, like I said earlier the only thing that was keeping us anxious was the court decision, but now that has been decided and finalised so we are good to go.
We just want to appeal to people to be peaceful and turn out for the elections, please exercise your right it’s important and it’s an opportunity to decide your leadership.
So, we expect people to exercise their constitutional right, we encourage and it’s part of our voter education.
</blockquote>
Those barred from contesting in the polls under the CCC banner include deputy spokesperson, Gift Ostallos Siziba who was the MP for Pelandaba-Tshabalala, the former leader of the opposition in Parliament Amos Chibaya who was also Mkoba North MP, and Stephen Chagwiza who was representing Goromonzi South.
CCC spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi on Tuesday said the party will challenge the High Court ruling at the Supreme Court.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

All In Place For 03 February By-elections

The opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has dismissed the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission’s (ZEC) move to declare five ZANU PF candidates duly elected as members of the local authorities ahead of the 03 February 2024 by-elections.
ZEC made the declaration following the 19 January 2024 High Court order that nullified the nomination of the CCC candidates to contest the wards.
The wards are as follows: Chiredzi Town Council’s Wards 6 and 7, Harare Municipality’s Wards 5 and 18, and Manyame RDC Ward 7.
In a statement, CCC national spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi said ZEC rushed its decision as the stipulated timeline for the party to lodge its appeal with the Supreme Court has not yet lapsed. Said Mkwananzi:
<blockquote>
Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) wishes to inform members of the public that the statement by the Zimbabwe Election Commission (ZEC) alleging that our candidates have been barred and therefore ZANU PF candidates have been duly elected following the High Court ruling of the 19th of January 2024 is false, inaccurate, misleading and premature.
We are still well within the stipulated timeline to lodge our appeal with the Supreme Court as provided for by the law.
We are going to lodge the appeal within the stipulated timeframe and our candidates, voters, supporters and members of the public are advised to forge on with their campaigns and preparations as planned and scheduled.
We urge the Zimbabwe Election Commission to endeavour to acquit itself with the highest level of professionalism, independence and objectivity.
We do not expect the electoral management body to recklessly jump the gun in matters of such national significance as this further diminishes ZEC’s already questioned standing as credible arbiter in national electoral contestations-a point already belaboured by the opposition, civil society and all electoral observer missions that participated in the disputed August 23, 2023, general elections.
</blockquote>
According to ZEC, the following ZANU PF local authority candidates have won their seats unopposed:
<ul>
<li>Costen Mombe – Chiredzi Town Council Ward 6</li>
<li>Brighton Nyashadzashe Mahiya – Chiredzi Town Council Ward 7</li>
<li>Abdurrahman Sapa – Harare Municipality Ward 5</li>
<li>Rufaro Daniel Matsika – Harare Municipality Ward 18</li>
<li>Simbarashe Ngarande – Manyame RDC Ward 7.</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

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