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.
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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).
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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>
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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>

CCC Dismisses ZEC's Declaration On 03 February By-elections

Award-winning journalist and government critic Hopewell Chin’ono said that disputed CCC interim secretary general Sengezo Tshabangu’s failure to field candidates in five wards for the 03 February 2024 by-elections, thereby allowing ZANU PF to take them uncontested, invalidates his justification for recalling the party’s elected representatives.
Tshabangu has recalled dozens of CCC MPs and councillors since October, claiming that the affected individuals were imposed as candidates for the August 2023 general elections by some selfish party members.
Further, Tshabangu recently obtained a High Court order barring the recalled candidates, who had been sponsored by CCC leader Nelson Chamisa and his allies, from running in the by-elections.
This prompted the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) to declare that the five ZANU PF candidates for the respective wards “have been duly elected as members of the local authorities with effect from the 3rd of February 2024.”
Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Chin’ono said those who still defend Tshabangu’s claim that he was resolving undemocratic issues in CCC need “to have their head examined at Ingutsheni”.
Ingutsheni Hospital is a healthcare institution located in Belmont East, Bulawayo and is the largest psychiatric hospital in Zimbabwe. Wrote Chin’ono:
<blockquote>
Anyone who still thinks that Sengezo Tshabangu is resolving undemocratic issues in the main opposition CCC needs to have their head examined at Ingutsheni.
Sengezo Tshabangu ILLEGALLY recalled 5 elected CCC councillors in these 5 wards, on account of so-called party impositions.
He went to court to block genuine CCC representatives from contesting in the upcoming by-elections which he triggered with the help of ZANUPF and captured state institutions, and he did so without even having fielded any contestants.
So essentially he gifted these 5 wards to ZANUPF, this is democracy being ripped apart right before the eyes of the whole world including the Commonwealth which the ZANU PF regime wants to join.
How does anyone sane support this retrogressive political charlatan who is removing elected officials to benefit a corrupt ruling party that has torn the country’s right to political representation into pieces?
Essentially Tshabangu has taken away the right for communities to have someone who speaks on their behalf.
ZANU PF is happy because nobody will challenge its corrupt political rule as a representative of those communities.
</blockquote>
However, self-exiled former ZANU PF Politburo member Jonathan Moyo, has defended Tshabangu, in 2015, the then MDC leader Morgan Tsvangirai failed to field candidates for the by-elections to fill vacancies that were created by his party after it had recalled several of its MPs.
Responding to Douglas Coltart who had suggested that Tshabangu was serving ZANU PF interests, Moyo said:
<blockquote>
Come on. Is this a legal or political analysis? Whatever it is, it’s very lazy, if not just outright malicious.
Whose interests did Morgan Tsvangirai serve when he recalled MPs in some 22 or so constituencies that caused the June 2015 by-elections, in which neither his MDC-T nor the PDP led by Hon Tendai Biti fielded candidates?
ZANU PF romped to victory and took control of key constituencies in opposition strongholds like Bulawayo and Harare.
Did you make the kind of noise you are making now, or that was ok because it was Tsvangirai gifting ZANU PF the constituencies in similar circumstances?
Your politics are too self-righteous. To understand the source of your political challenges, you and your lot desperately need self-examination before pointing fingers elsewhere. Introspect and learn!
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Only A Madman Still Believes Tshabangu's Justification For CCC Recalls - Chin'ono

Sengezo Tshabangu, who claims to be the opposition Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) interim secretary general, did not field candidates in five wards for the 03 February 2023 by-elections.
This means ZANU PF has taken the wards, which were won by CCC in the August 2023 general elections, without a single ballot being cast.
Tshabangu recently obtained a High Court order barring the recalled candidates, who had been sponsored by CCC leader Nelson Chamisa and his allies, from running in the by-elections.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) on Tuesday, 23 January, released the names of the CCC candidates whose nominations for the upcoming by-elections were nullified by the High Court. ZEC said:
<blockquote>
The public is hereby informed that following a High Court Order issued on the 19th of January 2024 under Case No. HCH197/24, the nomination of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party candidates specified in Schedule 1 below who had been nominated for election in by-elections scheduled for the 3rd of February 2024 has been set aside.
</blockquote>
The CCC candidates whose nomination for the 3 February 2023 by-elections were set aside are:
<ul>
<li>Musingashari Musingashari – Chiredzi Town Council Ward 6</li>
<li>Roger Chikonye – Chiredzi Town Council Ward 7</li>
<li>Samuel Gwenzi – Harare Municipality Ward 5</li>
<li>Ian Muteto Makone – Harare Municipality Ward 18</li>
<li>Innocent Kuziva Haparari – Manyame RDC Ward 7.</li>
</ul>
ZEC added:
<blockquote>
Consequently, the public is hereby notified, in terms of section 125 (4) (a) of the Electoral Act [Chapter 2:13], that since only one candidate has been duly nominated for each of the specified vacant wards, the persons specified in Schedule 2 below have been duly elected as members of the local authorities with effect from the 3rd of February 2024.
</blockquote>
The ZANU PF local authority candidates who have won their seats unopposed are:
<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>

Tshabangu Fails To Field Candidates In Five Wards For 03 February By-elections

An aspiring Member of Parliament, Joseph Tshuma, who is the ZANU PF candidate for Tshabalala-Phelandaba in the upcoming 03 February by-elections, has said Government officials including President Emmerson Mnangagwa should be banned from going outside Zimbabwe for medical treatment.
Speaking during a media conference held in Bulawayo on Wednesday last week, Tshuma also criticised Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) MPs for disrupting proceedings in Parliament regularly resulting in their ejection.
He dismissed claims that the ZANU PF-led government has neglected Matabeleland arguing that the region lacked representation. Said Tshuma (via the Southern Eye):
<blockquote>
We have got Members of Parliament who have gone there to sit, not representing us. People think that if one goes to Parliament and speaks about issues you become anti-ZANU PF. ZANU PF is there for the people so that they get the best in their country.
I can dare you right now. If I go to Parliament, my first speech and first proposal is to ban all ministers and even the President himself, from going to seek medical treatment outside the country.
I want them to know that when they fall sick they must go to Mpilo or Parirenyatwa hospitals.
No one should go outside the country. Let’s all get treated here, that is how you get your country fixed.
I am not being anti-ZANU PF by saying that we want functional health systems.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe’s political and business elites generally seek medical assistance at foreign hospitals due to the country’s dilapidated healthcare delivery system characterised by an acute shortage of basic medicines.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF Parliamentary Candidate Says Foreign Medical Trips Must Be Banned

ZANU PF political commissar, Mike Bimha, has urged people to vote in large numbers for the ruling party in the upcoming February 3 by-elections. He called on party members to support their candidate, Edgar Ncube, in the Mkoba North constituency, the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/cde-bimha-appeals-for-zanu-pf-vote-in-by-elections/">Chronicle</a> reported. Bimha expressed concern about the low voter turnout in previous by-elections and emphasised the need to change this trend.
Addressing a Press conference after meeting the party’s Midlands provincial team that is campaigning for Edgar Ncube, Bimha said:
<blockquote>
We would like to appeal to our party members to come in their numbers on February 3 and vote for the party and our candidate for Mkoba North Cde Ncube.
We want to change this hence we are calling on all our registered voters in Mkoba North to all come and vote for Cde Ncube so that he wins resoundingly. I would like to appeal to our Women’s League, Youth League and War Veterans to continue to give support to our provincial teams.
</blockquote>
The party has been actively preparing for the campaigns since the announcement of the by-election date. Bimha called on provincial structures across the country to play their part in mobilising support. He expressed the party’s commitment to strengthening its position with each election, noting that their improved performance in the previous elections was a sign that ZANU-PF is delivering on its promises. The party has in the past been accused of failing to deliver electoral promises.

<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2024/01/19/high-court-orders-removal-of-recalled-ccc-mps-from-february-by-elections-ballot-papers/">High Court Orders Removal Of Recalled CCC MPs From February By-elections Ballot Papers</a></li>
</ul>
The by-elections are taking place in six constituencies -Pelandaba-Tshabalala in Bulawayo, Mkoba North in the Midlands, Chegutu West and Zvimba East in Mashonaland West and Seke and Goromonzi South in Mashonaland East. The by-elections are being held to fill vacant posts left by the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) officials who were recalled by Sengezo Tshabangu, the party’s disputed interim Secretary-General. 
Meanwhile, the High Court ruled yesterday that 23 CCC Members of Parliament who were recalled last year are not eligible to contest in the by-elections representing the CCC. If they do not take further legal action, they won’t be on the ballot paper for the February 3, 2024 by-elections. 
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

ZANU-PF Urges Massive Voter Turnout In By-Elections, Expresses Commitment To Deliver Promises

High Court Justice Pisirayi Kwenda has given an order to remove the names of 23 opposition CCC Members of Parliament (MPs), including Amos Chibaya and Gift Ostallos Siziba, from the ballot papers for the upcoming by-elections set for 3 February. The judge ruled that these MPs are no longer CCC members and should not be allowed to run as candidates. He also expressed his displeasure with CCC lawyers for disregarding the court’s judgement.
The court heard arguments from both sides on 18 January 2024, and the judge reserved his judgment which he delivered on 19 January in the afternoon. The MPs in question were among several MPs and councillors who were recalled by Sengezo Tshabangu, the disputed CCC interim secretary-general. Tshabangu claimed that these individuals no longer belonged to the party.
The case arose when the recalled MPs filed to run in the by-elections under the CCC’s name. Tshabangu then took the matter to court, challenging the acceptance of their candidacy. His lawyer argued that there was a precedent of recalled members being disqualified from running in by-elections under the party that had recalled them.
After the ruling, CCC lawyer Obey Shava stated that he would consult with his client for further instructions. He noted that whether the recalled individuals will appear on the ballot for the February by-elections will depend on the legal actions taken by his client.
Journalist Mduduzi Mathuthu commented saying Nelson Chamisa should have either fielded candidates under a different party or supported ZAPU. He suggested that CCC’s decision to run independently allowed ZANU PF to gain ground in the elections. He said:
<blockquote>
Political parties are not in the habit of doing favours for other parties, but on reflection, CCC – with this predictable scenario – should have either fielded candidates under a different banner, or backed ZAPU. ZAPU retreated when CCC fielded. Now Zanu PF makes inroads in Byo.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) announced that preparations for the by-elections are well underway, with training for Constituency Elections Officers currently taking place in Darwendale.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

High Court Orders Removal Of Recalled CCC MPs From February By-elections Ballot Papers

The Minister of State for Midlands Provincial Affairs <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Owen_Ncube">Owen “Mudha” Ncube</a> said that the main opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) is not a democratic institution, but rather a one-man band.
Addressing ZANU PF party supporters during a campaign rally in Mbizo, Kwekwe, Ncube distanced the ruling party from the recall of CCC candidates by <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Sengezo_Tshabangu">Sengezo Tshabangu</a>. Said Ncube:
<blockquote>
CCC councillors were removed by CCC interim secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu and not ZANU PF, the reason being that CCC leader Nelson Chamisa imposed his councillors.
This means there is no democracy in CCC. The opposition party is a one-man band, a party without a constitution, no ideology and no structures.
They are sell-outs just to impress Western countries — America and Britain.
</blockquote>
Tshabangu is a CCC activist who has recalled dozens of the party’s MPs and councillors since the August 2023 general elections, claiming that they had ceased to be members of the political outfit.
Ncube accused the CCC, which controls the majority of urban local authorities, of failing to deliver services to residents. He added:
<blockquote>
On February 3 we will put an end to this failure to run urban councils by voting for leaders who know what they are supposed to do.
</blockquote>
Three wards in Kwekwe were left vacant following Tsabangu’s recalls in December last year.
Tshabangu claims to be CCC’s interim secretary-general but the party’s leader Nelson Chamisa and his allies say such a position doesn’t exist in the opposition party.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

No Democracy In CCC, Says Owen Ncube

Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activist <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Sengezo_Tshabangu">Sengezo Tshabangu</a> has set up an interim leadership structure ahead of his party’s national congress to elect a substantive leadership, reported <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local/article/200022086/tshabangu-names-interim-national-leadership">Southern Eye</a>.
Tshabangu, who has been claiming to be CCC’s interim secretary-general since October 2023, announced the interim leadership at a rally in the Tshabalala-Pelandaba constituency.
He was the guest speaker at the event to mobilise support for his candidate Moreblessing Tembo for the by-election to be held on 03 February.
Those appointed to leadership roles include Mbuso Siso (national treasurer), Albert Mhlanga (deputy national chairperson), Sikhululekile Moyo (women assembly chairperson) and Nomvula Mguni (national director for elections).
Mhlanga was reported as saying the interim structure gave Tshabangu the authority to make recalls. He said:
<blockquote>
This is the structure that gave Tshabangu the power to make recalls, this is how our president Nelson Chamisa was chosen.
There is no tribalism in this. We are just stationed in Matabeleland, but we are a national structure.
I communicate with those in Mashonaland East, West and other provinces and we are currently inviting people for a congress where a substantive leadership will be elected.
At the moment we, including the president, were not given the mandate to lead by the people.
</blockquote>
Tembo, who is Tshabangu’s preferred candidate in the Tshabalala-Pelandaba constituency, where CCC deputy spokesperson Gift Siziba is also a candidate, is an activist in the Douglas Mwonzora-led MDC.
Mhlanga defended Tembo’s selection to represent the party saying critics were ignorant of how the CCC was formed. He said:
<blockquote>
It’s called the all stakeholders party where all sections of society are involved regardless of where they are coming from.
</blockquote>
He also dismissed claims that Tshabangu wanted to be president of the party, adding that their sole leader was Nelson Chamisa. Said Mhlanga:
<blockquote>
There is no faction for Tshabangu or Chamisa. Even Tshabangu has said that he does not want to be a president.
Our president is Chamisa and we are preparing for Congress so that if possible he gets officially elected and gets a mandate from the people to lead.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, on Friday 12 January, Tshabangu filed an urgent High Court application seeking to stop the participation of 23 candidates under the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) banner in the upcoming 03 February by-elections.
The 23 CCC candidates successfully filed their nomination papers at the Nomination Court on 18 December 2023.
This was despite the fact that a previous High Court order had barred fellow party members from contesting under the party name on the basis that they had ceased to be party members ahead of the 09 December 2023 by-elections.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Tshabangu Names CCC "Interim National Leadership"

The opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) says its candidates for the 03 February 2024 by-elections will continue campaigning despite an urgent High Court application filed by <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Sengezo_Tshabangu">Sengezo Tshabangu</a> seeking to bar the 23 candidates from contesting on the party ticket.
The 23 CCC candidates successfully filed their nomination papers at the Nomination Court on 18 December 2023.
However, a previous High Court order barred fellow party members from contesting under the party name on the basis that they had ceased to be party members ahead of the 09 December 2023 by-elections.
In a statement, CCC spokesperson <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Promise_Mkwananzi">Promise Mkwananzi</a> said the matter is already before the Supreme Court on an appeal basis and the party’s legal team is confident that Tshabangu’s application will be thrown out. Read the statement:
<blockquote>
Our candidates and our supporters are urged to remain focused on the campaign and prepare to vote in the upcoming by-elections while retaining our representatives our lawyers address this issue.
Our legal teams have advised that this matter is already before the Supreme Court on an appeal basis following the initial barring of our candidates on the 9th of December 2023.
It is their considered view that the high court, to which this ill-fated appeal was lodged, being a lower court, must defer this matter to the superior court, which is the Supreme Court which is in the process of determining the matter anyway. So this appeal is not urgent and must and will be thrown away.
It must be noted that Tshabangu was barred from making any further recalls until the matter is finalised in another separate appeal before the Supreme Court.
What this means is that Tshabangu is unable to make any further recalls until the determination of that matter.
But because Tshabangu and his accomplices do not have any authority over the party or its deployees other than the threat of recalls, Tshabangu has no choice but to keep threatening party deployees with recalls to threaten and force them to comply with his criminal instructions, which explains even this attempt to bar CCC from contesting.
It is sad to note that ZANU PF does not respect the will of the people and the outcome of the elections even going by their cooked figures of August 23, 2023.
Zimbabwe must put itself in a positive light by being seen to be promoting rather than stifling democratic competition.
The barring of CCC is a further dent on the regime’s image which already suffered immensely from the disputed outcome of the general elections roundly condemned by all observers.
The attempt to bar our candidates is further vindication that Zimbabwean authorities and ZEC are not interested or capable of allowing a free and fair election to take place.
Barring two or three MPs and a couple of councillors shows the extent they would have gone in August 2023 to ensure that President Nelson Chamisa’s victory was reversed.
Our lawyers are seized with this matter and are confident that it will be thrown away as it should because it’s already before a superior court.
We are also engaged on this matter politically to ensure that we continue to defend the rights of Zimbabweans to contest elections and choose leaders of their choice.
The right to vote and to be voted for was one of the primary reasons for the liberation struggle. We will continue to fight for and to defend this inalienable right.
</blockquote>
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CCC "Confident" Tshabangu's High Court Application Will Fail

<a href="https://wiki.pindula.co.zw/Sengezo_Tshabangu">Sengezo Tshabangu</a> has filed an urgent High Court application seeking to stop the participation of 23 candidates under the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) banner in the upcoming 03 February by-elections.
The 23 CCC candidates successfully filed their nomination papers at the Nomination Court on 18 December 2023.
This was despite the fact that a previous High Court order had barred fellow party members from contesting under the party name on the basis that they had ceased to be party members ahead of the 09 December 2023 by-elections.
In his application, through his legal representative, Nqobani Sithole of Ncube Attorneys, Tshabangu, who claims to be the CCC Interim Secretary General, cited the 23 members and the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) as respondents.
Tshabangu argued that the recalled candidates are no longer CCC members hence should not contest under the party name. Part of the application reads:
<blockquote>
The application is made on the grounds that: On the 18th of December 2023, the Nomination Court sat consequent upon promulgation of the date for by-elections set down on the 3rd of February 2024.
First to twenty-third respondents submitted their nomination papers before the Nomination Court to be accepted as candidates in the by-election as “members” of a political party called Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC party.
This was despite the fact that in a prior and extant judgment, they had been found by this court to have ceased to be members of that party. The Nomination Court accepted the nomination papers.
The decision of the Nomination Court is unlawful in that it is contrary to an extant judgment of the High Court and was at any rate procured through an apparent act of defiance of that judgment.
</blockquote>
The application seeks the court to set aside the Nomination Court’s decision to accept the 23 members’ nomination papers.
Unlike at the sitting of the nomination court for the 09 December by-elections, some recalled CCC members filed their papers as independent candidates for the 03 February by-elections to avoid being disqualified.
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Tshabangu Files High Court Application To Bar Recalled CCC Members From 03 February By-elections

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has refuted claims that CCC candidate for Pelandaba-Tshabalala constituency in the 03 February 2024 by-elections Gift “Ostallos” Siziba was arrested while doing door-to-door campaigns in Bulawayo on Tuesday.
In a statement, the ZRP said Siziba was not arrested but was asked to account for his activities after they received complaints from members of the public. It reads:
<blockquote>
The ZRP dismisses social media postings alleging that Gift Ostallos Siziba was arrested by the Police while conducting door-to-door campaigns in Bulawayo on 09/01/24.
The Police only approached Gift Ostallos Siziba and his campaign team to account for what they were doing after receiving complaints from members of the public.
After that, Gift Ostallos Siziba was allowed to go. Therefore, the Police dismisses the social media postings with the contempt they deserve.
</blockquote>
Siziba will be up against Joseph Tshuma (ZANU PF), Abraham Nkomo (DOP), and Moreblessing Tembo (CCC) as he seeks to take back the seat he won in the August 2023 general elections.
Siziba, who is aligned with CCC leader Nelson Chamisa, was recalled from Parliament by Sengezo Tshabangu, a CCC activist who claims to be the party’s interim secretary-general under unclear circumstances.
Tshabangu claimed that Siziba, among dozens of other CCC MPs and councillors whom he recalled, had ceased to be a CCC member.
The February 3 by-elections will be held in six constituencies, that is, Mkoba North, Zvimba East, Chegutu West, Goromonzi South, Seke, and Pelandaba-Tshabalala.
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Ostallos Has Not Been Arrested - Police

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has spent over US$11 million on by-elections due to the recall of opposition legislators and councillors by Sengezo Tshabangu, the disputed interim Secretary General of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC). The first round of by-elections, held on December 7, cost US$5 million, with an additional US$6 million set aside for the upcoming elections on February 3.
These by-elections took place before the ballot papers for the August general elections had been used up. The costs encompass voter education and the deployment of officers to various voting areas and constituencies.
Utoile Silaigwana, the Chief Elections Officer of ZEC, confirmed in an interview with the State media that millions of dollars have been allocated for the by-elections. He was quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
The estimated budget for the by-elections is US$6 million, or the equivalent in the local currency. Preparations for the conduct of the February 3, 2024, by-elections are well on course.
As you may be aware, there are six National Assembly seats and 28 local authority wards to be filled on February 3, 2024.
Initially, there were 31 local authority vacancies, out of which three were dropped after the sponsoring party reversed two recalls and lost a court challenge in the other. Nomination courts for the by-elections sat on December 18, 2023.
</blockquote>
These costs come at a time when the government is trying to address the economic challenges facing the country, such as high inflation. The election expenses are likely to increase as <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/10/12/sengezo-tshabangu-hints-on-more-recalls/">Tshabangu has indicated that he will continue to recall more</a> legislators and councillors. The European Union, a significant funder of elections, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/09/19/eu-has-suspended-its-us5-million-financial-support-for-zec/">withdrew its support after the August polls,</a> citing flaws and a failure to meet regional and international standards according to several election observer missions.
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ZEC Has Spent US$11 Million On By-elections

A Zimbabwean citizen named Brian Mari has taken the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) to court, demanding a fresh election due to various irregularities, including a flawed delimitation exercise, <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200021733/zec-dragged-to-court-again-over-2023-polls">NewsDay</a> reported. The opposition party Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) was the first to dispute the results of the August 2023 elections, which declared President Emmerson Mnangagwa as the winner, describing it as a “gigantic fraud.”
In his court application, Mari also named Chief Justice Luke Malaba as a respondent, arguing that he lacked judicial authority in Zimbabwe. He said:
<blockquote>
I, therefore, seek a declaratory declaring that the action of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, Mr Luke Malaba and Mr Lewis Uriri are not lawful. Direct Zimbabwe Electoral Commission to conduct fresh elections that comply with all principles and laws governing a democratic process. Direct Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission to carry out an investigation on abuse of office and authority at Parliament, Zec and Courts and take appropriate action.
I, therefore, seek a declaratory that directs Law Society to conduct an investigation on the conduct of its members in relation to obligation imposed on every person by section 44 of the Constitution and binding in terms of section 45 and come up with a remedy that seek to protect right in section 67(1)(a) against the conduct of legal practitioners who carry instructions from two opposing parties, one in judicial robes and another as litigant and undermine democracy.
</blockquote>
He further called for an investigation by the Law Society of Zimbabwe into lawyer Lewis Uriri, whom he accused of undermining democracy by representing two opposing parties. He said:
<blockquote>
I am also putting before the court’s attention of a legal practitioner by the name Mr Lewis Uriri who is acting in all cases involving undermining the authority of Zimbabweans.
Mr Lewis Uriri is the legal representative of Mr Luke Malaba in the Musa Kika v Luke Malaba case. A judgement was issued showing Mr Uriri as the lawyer of Mr Malaba. Mr Uriri is also the lawyer of Mr Tshabangu. Judges are acting on instructions of Chief Justice as manned by Mr Luke Malaba as shown in Practice Direction and Mr Tshabangu is represented by Mr Luke Malaba’s lawyer, then whose instruction does Mr Uriri apply between Tshabangu instructions and Mr Malaba’s instructions?
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe had a general election on August 23-24, 2023. After those elections, the country has held by-elections, and there are more scheduled for February. These by-elections aim to fill the vacant positions left by Members of Parliament (MPs) and councillors from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) who were recalled by Sengezo Tshabangu. He claims to be the interim secretary general of the CCC. He argued that the recalled officials no longer belonged to the party.
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