The African National Congress (ANC) has emerged victorious in the by-elections held in Thabazimbi, Limpopo, South Africa on Wednesday.
The by-elections were triggered by the dissolution of the Thabazimbi Local Municipality, which left all council seats vacant.
With over 51,000 registered voters eligible to participate, voting took place across 57 stations in the region. A total of 405 candidates from 21 political parties and five independents contested the 24 available seats.
According to the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) in Limpopo, 19,812 people cast their ballots in the by-elections.
Addressing the media on Thursday, December 05, IEC electoral provincial officer for Limpopo Nkaro Mateta said:
<blockquote>
This falls within the range of our normal by-election turnout of around 40%.
</blockquote>
The ANC secured 39.65% of the vote, winning 10 council seats, while the Democratic Alliance (DA) followed with 16.41%, earning four seats.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) gained three seats with 13.32%, and both the Labour Party of South Africa and the Freedom Front Plus (FF+) obtained two seats each.
The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) and Thabazimbi Residents Association (TRA) each secured one seat.
Despite the ANC’s victory, no party achieved an outright majority, resulting in a hung council and the need for coalitions.
In the 2021 local elections, the ANC had won 11 out of 12 wards but lacked an overall majority, leading to DA control of the municipality through a coalition with smaller parties.
This shift reflects a growing trend of hung councils in South Africa, with the number of such councils increasing significantly from 29 in 2000 to 82 in 2021.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

The ANC won the most seats in a recent election in Thabazimbi, South Africa. This happened because the council was dissolved, leaving all seats empty. Many people voted, and the ANC got 10 seats. Other parties like DA and EFF also won some seats. No party got enough seats to control everything on its own, so they may need to work together in a coalition. This is becoming more common in South Africa. It's important to vote to choose who will make decisions for the town.

ANC Secures Majority In Thabazimbi By-Elections, Zuma's Party Wins One Seat

ZANU PF has increased its representation in the National Assembly, after its candidates, George Mashavave and Kiven Mutimbanyoka, won the Mt Pleasant and Harare East by-elections respectively.
The by-elections were held on Saturday, 27 April 2024 to fill in the vacants created by the resignations of Fadzayi Mahere (Mt Pleasant) and Allan Markham (Harare East), both from the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).
In Mt Pleasant Constituency, ZANU PF’s George Mashavave garnered 3 205 votes, while independent candidates; Mamuse Nason and Ticky Brian garnered 945 and 220 votes each, respectively.
The percent poll for Mt Pleasant was 11.6%, with 206 rejected ballots.
In Harare East, ZANU PF’s Kiven Mutimbanyoka received 3 533 votes, Ropafadzo Cynthia Cheza, an independent candidate, polled 1 974 votes.
Harare East had 51 rejected ballot papers with a percentage poll of 15.2%.
In the 2023 harmonised elections, the Mt Pleasant National Assembly Constituency results were as follows: Mahere (12 863), Beadle Musatye Gwasira of ZANU PF (7 787), and Jonathan Machokoto, a CCC double candidate (5 510).
In the 2023 harmonised elections, the Harare East National Assembly Constituency results were as follows: Markham (15 642), Mavis Gumbo of ZANU PF (7 621), Malvin Razaru, a CCC double candidate (1 027), Musarurwa Stewart Mutizwa of the MDC-T party (108), and UZA’s Garikai Mlambo (84).
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF Wins Harare East, Mt Pleasant By-elections

Brian Ticky, an Independent candidate for the upcoming by-election in Mt Pleasant National Assembly, has apologised for using former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) president, Nelson Chamisa’s face on his campaign material.
As reported by <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/mt-pleasant-independent-candidate-apologises-for-using-chamisas-face-on-campaign-posters-disassociates-from-zanu-pf/">NewZimbabwe.com</a> comes after Chamisa’s close allies, including Gift Siziba, accused Ticky of receiving funds from ZANU PF for his campaign. Chamisa’s allies also threatened to take legal action against Ticky.
Addressing the media at a press conference on Tuesday, Ticky apologised for using Chamisa’s image on his posters, fliers, and other campaign materials. He said:
<blockquote>
We felt like we had offended somebody in the course of our campaign. I would like to take this opportunity to apologise and also clear the rumours that my campaign is allegedly being funded by ZANU PF.
</blockquote>
Ticky said he is contesting for a parliamentary seat to fulfil Chamisa’s vision which he said was prematurely abandoned. He said:
<blockquote>
I am getting into these by-elections in support of the former CCC president Nelson Chamisa’s vision because I see him as a charismatic leader who is simple of hope and the possibility of a better Zimbabwe for all.
It’s not a secret Chamisa is a loved man…putting him on our campaign material was never meant to discredit anyone or mislead the masses. Rather it was a way of showing people that we share the same vision with him.
</blockquote>
Ticky also denied allegations that he is a member of the Forever Associates Zimbabwe (FAZ) or ZANU PF. He said:
<blockquote>
I’m not a Zanu PF or FAZ. I am an independent candidate. The reason I’m disassociating myself with anything to do with ZANU PF is that I’m not proud to be associated with them. I do not support their governance.
These allegations are not only false but attempt to discredit my authenticity as a true representative of the Mt Pleasant constituency.
These allegations should be dismissed with the contempt they deserve.
We are not against the struggle of people from Mt Pleasant and Zimbabwe as a whole.
</blockquote>
Mt Pleasant has two other candidates: George Mashavave (ZANU PF) and Naison Mamuse (Independent). The by-elections are scheduled for Saturday, with another one taking place in Harare East on the same day.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mt Pleasant Candidate, Brian Ticky, Apologises For Using Chamisa’s Face On Campaign Posters

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

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

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.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZEC Announces 09 March By-elections Nomination Results

Richard Tsvangirai, a member of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) and Member of Parliament (MP) for Norton, has stated that he remains in Parliament not for financial gain. Some individuals have been calling for CCC MPs and councillors who do not have any links with the ruling ZANU PF party, but are concerned about the public’s welfare, to resign following the departure of CCC leader Nelson Chamisa from the party. Those advocating for this believe that the CCC no longer serves a positive purpose. A few MPs, such as Fadzayi Mahere and Allan Norman Markham, have resigned in response.
However, the majority of MPs have chosen to stay in their positions. They argue that they need to consult with their constituents and await Nelson Chamisa’s next move before making a decision. Criticisms have been made against these MPs, accusing them of abandoning the struggle for freedom, being power-hungry, or simply being motivated by money rather than a desire to improve the lives of the general public. In response to these allegations, Richard Tsvangirai, son of the late former Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai, stated that being an MP actually results in a financial loss for him. He said:
<blockquote>
I’m actually running a financial loss by being an MP. The last program , that I did was worth more than my salary; my scholarship program is six times worth my salary. My programme for people with BP is worth more than my salary. Clearly, this is not about money.
</blockquote>
If CCC members decide to withdraw from Parliament or local government authorities, it will lead to by-elections. However, there is no certainty that they will win as independent candidates. The by-elections that took place in December and February have shown this. Many CCC members who were recalled and attempted to run as independent candidates were unsuccessful in defeating candidates from the ruling ZANU PF party.
There are various reasons behind this. One factor is voter apathy, where people may not feel motivated or interested enough to participate in the elections. Additionally, voter intimidation can play a role, where individuals may feel pressured or threatened into voting a certain way. Another issue is the lack of unity and organization within the opposition, leading to disorder and confusion among their ranks.
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Richard Tsvangirai Says His Dedication To Parliament Is Not For Financial Gain

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

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

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

<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.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Tshabangu Files High Court Application To Bar Recalled CCC Members From 03 February By-elections

The disputed interim secretary-general of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), Sengezo Tshabangu, has issued a warning about potential recalls within the opposition party. Speaking during a campaign launch in the Pelandaba-Tshabalala constituency, Tshabangu emphasised that Bulawayo would set an example for politics in the country.
Tshabangu expressed confidence that other regions, such as Masvingo and Harare, would follow Bulawayo’s lead in making changes within the party. He asserted that his removal from the party would not deter his efforts to bring about positive change. NewsDay quotes him as saying:
<blockquote>
This year Masvingo will admit, Harare will also admit, all because of Bulawayo. If they think by removing me they have removed the idea of mending things then they are joking.
This country needs great leaders. It needs people who are clear on ideology. Mnangagwa and Zanu won’t do anything for this country and we can’t follow their route. We will revamp this party. We will put it on track so that it has structures. We will go to congress and adopt a constitution so that we are able to make decisions as a collective body.
</blockquote>
Tshabangu’s spokesperson, Khaliphani Phugeni, accused Ostallos Siziba, the CCC’s deputy spokesperson, of double standards. Phugeni claimed that Siziba sought Tshabangu’s signature to file for candidacy but later obtained another signature in Harare. Phugeni alleged that Siziba attempted to deceive them, but emphasized that Moreblessing Tembo was the sole CCC candidate in the constituency.
In response, Siziba denied the allegations and stated that he filed for candidacy after being signed for by the party’s signatory, Senator Sthabile Mlilo. Siziba said:
<blockquote>
I filed after I was signed for by the party’s signatory senator Sthabile Mlilo. I have never interacted with Phugeni or Tshabangu. I am the official party candidate.
</blockquote>
Tshabangu’s initial recalls were launched last year shortly after Parliamentarians and councillors had taken the oath of office. He argued that the recalled people had ceased to belong to the CCC party. By-elections were held in December to fill vacant posts while others are scheduled for February this year.
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Tshabangu Has Issued A Warning About Potential Recalls Within CCC

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

Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi has defended the move by the party’s candidates to contest by-elections set for 03 February under the CCC banner.
Barely two days before the 09 December by-elections, CCC activist Sengezo Tshabangu, who claims to be the party’s interim secretary general, approached the High Court to bar the party’s MPs whom he recalled in October, from contesting as CCC candidates. The High Court ruled in his favour.
However, posting on X on Monday, Mkwananzi insisted that the High Court ruling has no effect because the party appealed against the judgement. Said Mkwananzi:
<blockquote>
We are pleased to announce that our candidates have successfully filed to contest in the upcoming by-elections.
There is no doubt that we will romp to victory once again. This is because we already won those seats which the regime seeks to reverse using unorthodox means.
There is a misconstrued narrative that our candidates should have contested as independent because of the court order that barred 9 of our parliamentary candidates on the 9th of December 2023.
This is a false narrative. We appealed against that Judgement which we believe was grossly misdirected.
The effect of our appeal is that that order has been suspended pending the determination of our appeal by the Supreme Court.
We have appealed against all judgements that have been made thus far. The effect of our appeals is therefore that all the Judgements are of no effect. They have been suspended pending a determination of the Supreme Court.
We have written to ZEC reminding them of the official signatories seconded by the party in the August harmonised elections and advising them that there are no changes as to those signatories.
In the same vein, we have implored ZEC not to accept or be complicit in the unauthorised use of Nelson Chamisa’s face and our intention to sue anyone using or in complicit in the unauthorised use of our brand manuals.
To conclude, we reiterate that there’s only one CCC led by Nelson Chamisa which is the sole sponsor of CCC candidates in the August 2023 harmonised elections as well as in the controversial by-elections arising out of illegal and senseless recalls.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, some of the recalled MPs decided to contest as independent candidates. Former Chegutu West MP Admore Chivero, Oliver Mutasa, who was the Zvimba East lawmaker, and Willard Madzimbamuto (Seke) all filed nomination papers as independent candidates.
CCC has double candidates in the Pelandaba-Tshabalala Constituency (Gift Siziva and Moreblessing Tembo) as well as in Goromonzi South (Rueben Chikudo and Stephen Chatiza).
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mkwananzi Explains Why Recalled Members Filed Nomination Papers As CCC Candidates

Recalled Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) Members of Parliament on Monday, 18 December successfully filed their nomination papers ahead of by-elections set for 03 February 2024.
Six parliamentary seats will be up for grabs after the incumbent legislators, all from CCC, were recalled by Sengezo Tshabangu who claims to be the party’s interim secretary-general.
CCC Ward 9 councillor Donaldson Mabutho said he filed nomination papers on behalf of party deputy spokesperson Gift Ostallos Siziba to contest for the Pelandaba-Tshabalala seat in Bulawayo.
In the run-up to the 09 December by-elections, Tshabangu blocked recalled CCC members from contesting on the party ticket, saying they had been expelled from CCC.
By-elections will also be held in Goromonzi South, Seke, Chegutu West, Zvimba East and Mkoba.
<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200021136/recalled-ccc-members-to-contest-by-elections">NewsDay</a> reported Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) chief elections officer, Utloile Silaigwana, as saying they were now preparing for the by-elections. Said Silaigwana:
<blockquote>
Since we have had more than one candidate successfully filing their papers we will proceed with the elections next year.
We are happy to say we never had any challenges, every[thing] ran smooth[ly].
We also urge politicians and party supporters to embark on peaceful campaigns.
Everyone has a responsibility to keep the peace during this period.
</blockquote>
Below is the list of the parliamentary by-election candidates nominated yesterday:
Chegutu West Constituency
<ul>
<li>Konjana Gift Machoka, CCC</li>
<li>Admore Chivero, Independent</li>
<li>Wellington Shakemore Timburwa, ZANU PF</li>
</ul>
Goromonzi South Constituency
<ul>
<li>Rueben Chikudo, CCC</li>
<li>Stephen Chatiza, CCC</li>
<li>Washington Zhanda, ZANU PF</li>
</ul>
Mkoba North Constituency
<ul>
<li>Amos Chibaya, CCC</li>
<li>Patrick Tayiya, Democratic Party</li>
<li>Edgar Ncube, ZANU PF</li>
</ul>
Pelandaba-Tshabalala Constituency
<ul>
<li>Abraham Yona Nkomo, DOP</li>
<li>Gift Siziva, CCC</li>
<li>Moreblessing Tembo, CCC</li>
<li>Joseph Tshuma, ZANU PF</li>
</ul>
Seke Constituency
<ul>
<li>Everisto Chisi, CCC</li>
<li>Willard Madzimbamuto, Independent.</li>
<li>Munyaradzi Kashambe, ZANU PF</li>
</ul>
Zvimba East Constituency
<ul>
<li>Agrippa Alberito, CCC</li>
<li>Oliver Mutasa, Independent</li>
<li>Kudakwashe Mananzva, ZANU PF</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Recalled CCC Members To Contest 03 February By-elections

Recalled Seke Member of Parliament Willard Tapfumanei Madzimbamuto says he will seek to reclaim his seat in the by-elections as an independent candidate.
Madzimbamuto is among more than a dozen Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) MPs recalled by Sengezo Tshabangu since October 2023.
Tshabangu, who claims to be CCC’s interim secretary general, justified the recalls of the elected representatives saying they had ceased to be members of the party.
Posting on X, Madzimbamuto vowed to run for the seat again but not as a CCC candidate. He said:
<blockquote>
For the avoidance of doubt and clarity, l will be participating in the by-elections as an independent candidate.
</blockquote>
Madzimbamuto did not explain why he decided to go independent but just a few days before the 09 December by-elections, a High Court judge barred recalled CCC MPs from participating in the polls as CCC candidates.
As a result, all the party’s nine candidates were removed from the ballot papers, allowing ZANU PF to win seven of the nine seats, with the other seats won by Tshabangu’s candidates.
In the August 2023 general elections, Madzimbamuto narrowly won the seat after he garnered 14 032 votes.
The ZANU PF candidate, Tobia Munyaradzi Kashambe received 13 277, while DUZ’s Frederick Muzanenhamo polled 235 votes in the largely rural constituency.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Recalled CCC Candidate Says To Participate In By-elections As An Independent

Nine National Assembly representatives who were elected during the 09 December by-elections took the oath of office on Thursday afternoon at the New Parliament building in Mount Hampden.
The National Assembly Representatives who took their oath are Nketa Constituency’s Albert Mavunga (ZANU PF), Cowdray Park Constituency’s Arthur Mujeyi (ZANU PF), Bulawayo South’s Raj Modi and Lobengula-Magwegwe’s Chitura Tendayi Nyathi (CCC).
For Matabeleland North, Phathisiwe Machangu (ZANU PF) who won the Lupane East seat and Chineke Muchimba (ZANU PF) from Binga North were sworn in.
In Matabeleland South Thusani Ndou (ZANU PF) National Assembly member for Beitbridge West and Pedzai Sakupwanya (ZANU PF) for Mabvuku Constituency were sworn in.
The by-elections were necessitated by the recall of CCC MPs in October by Sengezo Tshabangu, who claims to be the party’s interim secretary general.
CCC, under the leadership of Nelson Chamisa, won all the nine seats in the August 2023 general elections.
The recalled MPs were barred from contesting by the High Court and all the CCC candidates who participated in the by-elections were sponsored by Tshabangu.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Newly Elected MPs Sworn Into Office

Zimbabwean musician Sandra Ndebele was elected as Councillor for Ward 20 in Bulawayo during the by-elections held on 9 December 2023. Ndebele, who represented ZANU PF, had previously lost to Simbarashe Dube of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) during the general elections in August 2023. In the by-election, Ndebele received 1,106 votes, defeating Dube who received 782 votes. Other candidates, Michael Gumede of CCC and Nomagugu Ndlovu of ZAPU, received 57 and 11 votes respectively.
In Masvingo, Shantiel Yeukai Chiwara, who had been elected as the City’s Mayor following the harmonised elections, lost in the by-election for Masvingo Ward 2. Benson Hwata of ZANU PF received 612 votes, defeating Chiwara of CCC who received 585 votes. Roki Kamuzonda of CCC and independent candidate Frank Chirairo both received 90 votes.
Donaldson Mabuto of CCC was declared the councillor for Ward 9 in Bulawayo.
Tinevimbo Maposa from the CCC party has been elected as the councillor for Ward 21 in Bulawayo. Maposa received 964 votes, while the other candidates, Godfrey Dube (Independent), Andrew Nyathi (CCC), and Mkaita Janet Tekere (ZANU PF), received 15, 74, and 400 votes respectively.
Some observers criticised the by-elections, describing them as sham elections. These by-elections were held to fill vacant positions after Sengezo Tshabangu, the self-proclaimed interim secretary general of CCC, recalled several CCC officials from Parliament and local governments, claiming that they no longer belonged to the party.
More by-elections are scheduled to take place on 3 February 2024.
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Local Government By-elections: Sandra Ndebele Elected Councillor

Self-proclaimed Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) interim secretary general Sengezo Tshabangu said that his party will accept the outcome of the by-elections held today, 09 December.
Speaking to the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/ccc-ready-to-accept-poll-outcome-tshabangu/">Chronicle</a>, Tshabangu said the elections were held in a peaceful environment, and he will therefore accept the results.
Tshabangu, however, expressed concern over reports of voter apathy after it emerged that the majority of registered voters shunned the polls. He said:
<blockquote>
To us, any outcome will be accepted although everyone knows that when you go into any contest, the objective is to win.
However, everyone knows that in this political game, it’s either you win or lose and you must be prepared to accept especially the losing part. It’s all part of democracy.
These by-elections presented an opportunity for a democratic foundation as we look forward to 2028.
We are of course concerned about the reported voter apathy because we know that any voter apathy has always benefited ZANU PF.
</blockquote>
Tshabangu has recalled scores of CCC MPs and councillors, saying they had ceased to be members of the opposition party.
However, CCC leader Nelson Chamisa has dismissed Tshabangu as an imposter and accused him of working with ZANU PF to destroy the opposition party.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Tshabangu Expresses Readiness To Accept By-elections Results

Lawyer Jeremiah Bamu’s law firm Mbidzo, Muchadehama and Makoni Legal Practitioners have written a letter to the Registrar of the High Court of Zimbabwe demanding that his name should be removed from a Friday night order by Justice Isaac Muzenda barring recalled CCC MPs from today’s by-elections.
Justice Isaac Muzenda presided over the High Court application by Sengezo Tshabangu to stop CCC recalled MPs from participating in the 09 December by-elections.
Bamu said he was not part of the proceedings saying “It can only be an error” for Justice Muzenda’s order to reflect that he (Bamu) appeared for the respondents.
The letter, dated 09 December 2023, was copied to the Secretary of the Law Society of Zimbabwe, the Secretary of the Judicial Services Commission, A. Muchadehama, C. Kwaramba, and Agency Gumbo. It reads:
<blockquote>
CITIZENS COALITION FOR CHANGE &amp; ANOR vs. PRINCE DUBEKO SIBANDA &amp; ORS HCH 8072/23 
REQUEST FOR CORRECTION OF ORDER MADE BY THE COURT
1. We refer to the above matter.
2. May you kindly place this letter before the Honourable Justice Muzenda, with a request that he mero motu corrects the Order he issued in the above matter in terms of Rule 29 (1) (b) for the order to reflect that there was no appearance on behalf of 1st – 22nd Respondents, and that in fact the Order was issued in default of their appearance.
3. In the event that he is not minded to do so, may the writer (Mr. Bamu) be advised of same to enable him to make a formal application for such correction of the patent error in the Order in terms of the same Rule.
4. The following issues are common cause and serve as a background to the request:
4.1 The Honourable Judge was made aware that Mr. Bamu had no mandate and no instructions from any of the Respondents and he was not representing them.
4.2 The Honourable Judge was also made aware that Mr. Bamu was a complete stranger to the proceedings. He is not part of the legal team that filed the appeal which formed the subject of the application. He had not even read the application and he knew nothing about it. He was not privy to the proceedings that had taken place before His Lordship Katiyo J resulting in the appeal. He was not the legal practitioner of choice for any of the applicants and he could not impose his representation upon them.
4.3 He had in fact been dragged out of bed by a desperate plea from the Registrar to assist in a case management session with respect to a matter in which one of the principals in his firm, Mr. Muchadehama was handling. The Registrar advised that he had made prior efforts to contact Mr. Muchadehama and had failed. He had tried liaising with Mr. Kwaramba who had made an undertaking to liaise with Mr. Muchadehama and that had also failed. All that was now required was to manage the case as efforts to contact Mr. Muchadehama were being made. This is the basis and understanding upon which Mr. Bamu joined the session, only to be ambushed into a hearing in respect of which he had no prior knowledge, no file, no instructions from any person and in respect of which he completely knew nothing about.
4.4 Consequently, Mr. Bamu objected to this approach, and made an application that the matter be postponed to 10am the next morning (9 December 2023) to enable him to drive to Mr. Muchadehama’s residence and advise him of the proceedings, in the alternative, for Mr. Bamu to read through the papers, seek to obtain instructions from the client and be prepared to argue the matter. The only objection raised by the Applicant and representatives of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission was that polls were scheduled to commence at 7am. Mr. Bamu pointed out that section 53 of the Electoral Act [Chapter 2:13] permits the Constituency Elections Officer to determine and fix a later time for opening of the polls where good cause exists. The fact that the court was seized with the determination of a matter that affected the poll in question was sufficient cause to facilitate the delay of opening polls, which cured the concern raised by ZEC and the Applicants.
4.5 His Lordship Muzenda J noted that he appreciated the explanation that had been tendered by Mr. Bamu, and excused Mr. Bamu from the hearing as he clearly had no mandate from any of the litigants. The Judge also expressed that if Mr. Bamu so wished he could listen in to the proceedings though taking no further part in them.
4.6 Consequently, it can only be an error, a patent one at that, for the order to reflect that Mr. Bamu appeared for the 1st 22nd Respondents in circumstances where it was abundantly clear that he was not, and had only been requested to assist in a case management process that would facilitate proper representation of all parties concerned.
4.7 This request is being made in view of the fact that should it remain uncorrected, it exposes Mr. Bamu to potential disciplinary action from the regulating body, the Law Society, for purporting to represent clients who had not instructed him to do so, and in circumstances where his participation was only intended to assist the court in securing proper representation of the parties.
5. Your assistance in this respect will be greatly appreciated.
Yours faithfully
Mbidzo Muchadehama and Makoni
</blockquote>
 
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Lawyer Demands High Court Removes His Name From Order Granted In Tshabangu's Favour

Lawyer Jeremiah Bamu says he was not representing the recalled CCC MPs when Justice Isaac Muzenda issued an order on Friday night barring them from today’s by-elections.
Justice Isaac Muzenda presided over the High Court application by Sengezo Tshabangu to stop CCC recalled MPs from participating in the 09 December by-elections.
Bamu said that he was “dragged out of bed” after 10 PM last night and “ambushed” by the Registrar.
In a statement, Bamu said he informed the judge that he had no instructions to argue the matter on behalf of the respondents and the judge proceeded to issue a default order, with no lawyers present for CCC. <a href="https://x.com/daddyhope/status/1733416298225316332?s=20">Said Bamu</a>:
<blockquote>
I was dragged from bed at 22.10hrs back to the office to join an online session of a court that I had no idea about.
The court officials insisted it was just a case management meeting. When I got there I was ambushed into the actual hearing of the matter on the merits. I told them I was a complete alien to the proceedings.
I had no mandate from the candidates and I didn’t know if they were aware of the night (in) justice.
I told them I had not participated in any of the prior proceedings and had not read any of the papers to enable me to fully appreciate the matter at hand and apply my mind to it.
I asked for time to obtain a mandate and instructions.
I asked for time to read through the papers and understand them. I pointed out that where good cause exists poll opening can be delayed by the constituency elections officer.
I told them that common decency, logic, professionalism, etiquette and integrity of process would require that the matter be postponed for the reasons I had cited.
The Judge proceeded with the hearing. He said he appreciated the issues I had raised but was nonetheless going to grant the order and I was free to leave the hearing or listen to him pronounce his decision.
I have never seen the likes of this. A choreographed script that I was required to sanitize. I refused to sanitize it. They nonetheless proceeded.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) said that all centres with by-elections opened on time at 7 AM and voters were already queuing to cast votes.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwean Lawyer "Dragged Out Of Bed" To Argue A Case For CCC "He Had No Idea About"

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) on Friday, 08 December cancelled a by-election for the Mabvuku-Tafara National Assembly constituency and declared the ZANU PF candidate Pedzai Sakupwanya as the winner.
In a statement, ZEC Chief Elections Officer Utoile Silaigwana said Sakupwanya became the sole candidate for the Mabvuku-Tafara by-election after the other candidate, CCC’s Munyaradzi Kufahakutizwi’s candidature was set aside by the High Court.
Since there were only two candidates for the Mabvuku-Tafara by-election, therefore Kufahakutizwi’s disqualification means that Sakupwanya has won the seat uncontested. Read the statement:
<blockquote>
Further to the press release issued by the Commission on 07 November 2023, it is hereby notified that the candidature of Kufahakutizwi Febion Munyaradzi of CCC was also set aside by the High Court Order in the matter HCH7543/23.
Since there were only two candidates nominated for the Mabvuku-Tafara National Assembly constituency by-election, Sakupwanya Pedzai of ZANU (PF) is the sole candidate that was duly nominated, hence there will be no by-election in that Constituency on 09 December 2023.
Consequently, the public is hereby notified that Pedzai Sakupwanya of ZANU (PF) has been duly elected member of the National Assembly for Mabvuku-Tafara Constituency with effect from 9 December 2023.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, CCC has urged voters to turn out in their numbers and vote for the party’s candidates in by-elections scheduled for Saturday, 09 December.
In a statement, CCC spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi said a High Court ruling barring recalled CCC candidates from the poll, and the announcement by ZEC Chief Elections Officer, Utoile Silaigwana to withdraw ballot papers from the constituencies, have been nullified by the party’s appeal against the ruling at the Supreme Court.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZEC Cancels Mabvuku-Tafara By-election, Declares Pedzai Sakupwanya As The Winner

The Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) led by Nelson Chamisa has urged voters to turn out in their numbers and vote for the party’s candidates in by-elections scheduled for Saturday, 09 December.
In a statement, CCC spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi said a High Court ruling barring recalled CCC candidates from the poll, and an announcement by ZEC Chief Elections Officer, Utoile Silaigwana to withdraw ballot papers from the constituencies, have been nullified by the party’s appeal against the ruling at the Supreme Court. Read the statement:
<blockquote>
Our legal team has successfully served ZEC through the Chief of Elections Mr Utoile Silaigwana with our court appeal and a letter of all our legitimate candidates to be included on the ballot for tomorrow’s by-election.
The statement by Silaigwana that he has removed our candidates is therefore nullified by the court appeal.
Accordingly, by-elections are proceeding as scheduled tomorrow with all our candidates on the ballot paper.
We urge all citizens to turn out in their numbers to re-confirm our legitimate candidates by electing them back.
This whole debacle of going back and forth in the justice system has exposed the following:
a) ZANU PF has contaminated and corrupted our justice system through the criminal abuse of the courts.
b) They are afraid of proper elections and are using a nefarious, albeit failed, attempt to remove legitimately nominated candidates from the ballot paper.
c) They have tried without success to use the needless by-elections to divert our attention from claiming and pursuing our victory of the harmonised elections of August 2023.
The regime is afraid of our momentum and the huge and genuine political support that President Nelson Chamisa and the CCC have accumulated in the country.
This has been exposed by the clandestine use of named rogue elements to abduct, torture and assassinate our candidates and activists.
In Mabvuku-Tafara for example, they abducted and murdered Bishop Tapfumanei Masaya.
Although the perpetrators of these heinous acts are known and have been recorded on camera, no single arrest has been effected.
While seized with senseless and unlawful by-elections, government business has collapsed and resulted in Zimbabwean citizens being denied proper representation, their right to vote and the sanctity of their vote.
An opportunity to adequately debate, dissect, interpret and ensure that the national budget remains pro-poor has been lost.
All this mis-prioritisation is happening at a time when the nation is faced with unprecedented drought that will severely expose the fallacy of a bumper harvest through ill-conceived pfumvudza looting scheme leaving the majority of the citizens facing starvation.
The August 2023 elections were rigged as confirmed by all observer mission`s damming reports, making Mnangagwa’s government illegitimate and operating on a defacto and caretaker basis pending the final resolution of the electoral dispute.
As we grapple with finding a lasting political solution through SADC and other avenues, we urge the citizens of Zimbabwe to turn out in their numbers tomorrow to make an unequivocal statement by voting back their representatives as elected on the 23rd of August 2023.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chamisa's CCC Vows To Participate In 09 December By-elections

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) says it has withdrawn ballot papers in eight constituencies that were affected by a ruling by High Court judge Justice Never Katiyo who nullified the nomination of recalled Citizens Coalition For Change (CCC) candidates for the 09 December 2023 by-elections.
Justice Katiyo granted the party’s self-declared interim Secretary General Sengezo Tshabangu an application to bar recalled CCC candidates from participating in the upcoming by-elections.
CCC’s deputy spokesman Gift Siziba on Thursday said that the party had appealed against the decision by Justice Katiyo at the Supreme Court.
In a statement, ZEC Chief Elections Officer, Utoile Silaigwana said that they are going to reprint ballots for Binga North, Lupane East, Cowdray Park, Bulawayo South, Lobengula-Magwegwe, Beitbridge West, Nketa, Mpopoma-Mzilikazi constituencies in compliance with the court order.
The recalled CCC representatives who were affected by the recent ruling by Justice Katiyo are:
<ul>
<li>Sibanda Dubeko Prince</li>
<li>Moyo Bright Vanya</li>
<li>Nkomo Veliswe</li>
<li>Toffa Jasmine</li>
<li>Mlilo Stabile</li>
<li>Sibanda Pashor Raphael</li>
<li>Watson Nicola Jane</li>
<li>Gono Ereck</li>
<li>Zana Evidence Sunungurai</li>
<li>Ncube Morgan</li>
<li>Manduna Obert</li>
<li>Dube Janeth</li>
<li>Makaza Desmond</li>
<li>Shoko Gideon</li>
<li>Sibanda Tendai</li>
<li>Moyo Anastasia</li>
<li>Gabuzza Joel</li>
<li>Chimhini David</li>
<li>Ncube Siphiwe</li>
<li>Sibanda Felix</li>
<li>Zivira Helen</li>
<li>Madzikana Mativenga</li>
</ul>
The CCC candidates who were nominated for the direct first-past-the-post elections are:
Sibanda Dubeko Prince (Binga North), Moyo Bright Vanya Lupane East (Cowdray Park), Watson Nicola Jane (Bulawayo South), Gono Ereck (Lobengula-Magwegwe), Ncube Morgan (Beitbridge West), Manduna Obert (Nketa), Makaza Desmond (Mpopoma-Mzilikazi).
Silaigwana said the named individuals will not have their names appearing on the ballot paper in the Saturday by-elections. He said:
<blockquote>
Consequently, the said persons are not candidates for the by-elections on 9 December 2023. In terms of the court order, the Commission has been ordered not to include the names of the said persons in the preparation of ballot papers to be used in the by-elections.
The Commission is thus withdrawing all ballot papers that had been printed and distributed to the respective Constituencies and will reprint and redistribute ballots that are in compliance with the court order.
Kindly note that this will not affect the number of ballots to be printed and the number remains as notified in the notice published on 27 November 2023. The printer remains Printing and Minting Company.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZEC Withdraws Ballot Papers For 09 December By-elections

A ZANU PF member in Matabeleland South Province assigned to the Beitbridge West constituency’s ongoing campaign for the 09 December by-elections died on Saturday while on a campaign trail.
The deceased identified as Sister Moyo Bhebhe, was reportedly taken to Beitbridge Hospital after complaining that she was not feeling well but died soon after admission.
Her death was also announced in a ZANU PF WhatsApp group. The message that was posted in the WhatsApp group on Saturday seen by <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200020136/zanu-pf-official-dies-on-campaign-trail">NewsDay</a>, read:
<blockquote>
Comrades, this is both painful and energy-sapping. We were with this sister in the Ward 14 programme in Beitbridge West.
Yesterday, (Friday) we left her at the command centre. Today (Saturday) we went with her but she appeared unwell.
We tried convincing her to remain behind but she insisted on going to the programme.
When we knocked off, she showed signs of stress and we took her to hospital where all failed with her blood sugar level reported high, above 40. It is too hot here (in Beitbridge).
To us it’s painful but her courage to die on duty is worth all respect. For us who were with her, it has badly impacted us. But this is a heroine who has gone.
</blockquote>
The deceased was campaigning for the ZANU PF candidate for Beitbridge West Thusani Ndou who lost to CCC’s Morgan Ncube in the 23-24 August 2023 Harmonised Elections.
CCC leader Nelson Chamisa’s preferred candidate, Morgan Ncube, who was recalled in October by party activist <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Sengezo_Tshabangu">Sengezo Tshabangu</a>, who declared himself CCC interim secretary general, will contest again. Tshabangu’s candidate is Blessing Choeni.
Other candidates for Beitbridge West by-elections are Blessing Brendan Dube an independent and Thoriso Moyo, the only female candidate, from ZAPU.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF Member Dies On Campaign Trail

The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) candidate for Mabvuku-Tafara in the 09 December 2023 by-elections, Munyaradzi Kufahakutizwi has approached the High Court seeking to compel the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) to give him a polling station-based voters’ roll for the constituency.
This was confirmed by the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) in a statement posted on X. It said:
<blockquote>
At Harare High Court, we have challenged ZEC’s refusal to furnish Mabvuku-Tafara parliamentary candidate Munyaradzi Kufahakutizwi for next month’s by-elections, with a polling station-based voters’ roll.
In an urgent court application filed by our lawyer Obey Shava, we asked the High Court to compel ZEC to release and hand over the voters’ roll to Kufahakutizwi within 48 hours.
Our court challenge came after numerous attempts seeking the release of the voters’ roll by Kufahakutizwi, one of the participating candidates in next month’s by-elections, were turned down by ZEC.
</blockquote>
By-elections will be held in Beitbridge West, Binga North, Bulawayo South, Cowdray Park, Lobengula-Magwegwe, Lupane East, Mabvuku-Tafara, Mpopoma-Mzilikazi and Nketa constituencies.
CCC won all the nine constituencies in the 23-24 August 2023 general elections. But in October, CCC activist <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Sengezo_Tshabangu">Sengezo Tshabangu</a> recalled the legislators after declaring himself the party’s interim secretary general.
Tshabangu subsequently recalled more MPs and councillors and the number of CCC representatives he has recalled to date stands at 27 MPs, 14 senators, and 69 councillors.
Meanwhile, Tshabangu has since filed an urgent High Court application seeking to bar recalled CCC legislators and councillors who successfully filed their nomination papers to contest in the 09 December by-elections.
Tshabangu, through his lawyer Advocate Lewis Uriri, argued that the recalled CCC members had ceased to be members of CCC and therefore could not represent the same party in the by-elections.
However, in July 2023, the High Court dismissed an appeal by CCC against <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/06/26/ccc-sues-41-fraudulent-candidates/">forty-one (41) individuals who fraudulently filed nomination papers as members of the party.</a>
The CCC claimed that 20 of the “fraudsters” filed nomination papers for National Assembly seats while the other 21 individuals filed for local authority seats.
High Court Judge Justice Neville Wamambo dismissed the appeal application saying the papers had nothing suspicious.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/11/18/president-mnangagwa-reverses-the-appointment-of-general-valerio-sibanda-to-zanu-pf-politburo/">Pindula News</a>

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