Zimbabwe’s main opposition party, the Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) is yet to come up with its final list of candidates who will contest this year’s parliamentary and local government elections just over two months before the polls.
CCC abandoned primary elections and adopted a citizens-centred selection process whereby candidates are selected based on their ability to represent the interests of the people.
The process is in five stages namely:
<ol>
<li>Nomination which happened on 5 April 2023</li>
<li>Candidate acceptance confirmation in which nominated candidates were supposed to accept the nomination;</li>
<li>Candidate vetting to weed out suspected secret agents</li>
<li>Announcement of candidates that would have passed the vetting stage</li>
<li>Consensus-building caucuses before the official announcement of victorious candidates</li>
</ol>
The CCC’s candidate nomination process is being conducted by an independent body, the Citizens’ Independent Candidate Selection Panel (CISP).
The Citizen Independent Selection Panel will deal with any complaints that will arise during the candidate selection process.
Speaking during an interview with <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/interview-chamisa-outlines-citizenocratic-candidate-selection-says-nomination-process-kicks-off-this-week/">NewZimbabwe.com</a> in April this year, CCC leader Nelson Chamisa explained the rationale behind the candidate selection process. He said:
<blockquote>
It’s novel and it’s modern and places the citizen at the centre of the process. Citizenocracy is government by the citizens. It’s a citizenocratic selection process.
Citizens want candidates to be selected on merit, integrity, dignity, suitability and accountability. Citizens prefer representatives who are visible, accessible and available.
Those leaders regularly report back to constituencies and communities to get instructions and progress on policies and national priorities of public interest.
All these are going to be considered through a rigorous vetting panel that looks at these critical tests.
In the event that we have more candidates nominated, citizens’ caucuses are convened.
A citizen caucus is constituted of those who have subscribed to citizen philosophy and ideology in the constituency or in a particular ward.
The process also involves wide consultation with stakeholders in that particular constituency or ward.
Your community track record is the qualification to be nominated.
It is your service to the nation and we have criteria for that, we are looking at three attributes of loyalty.
You must pass that. The first is loyalty to the country. The second is loyalty to the people or the constituency.
The third one is loyalty to God, the author of the universe. You can’t lead the people of God when you do not have a relationship with the God of the people.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Explainer: CCC Candidate Selection Process

Several Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) bigwigs in Bulawayo Province aspiring to represent the party in the 23 August elections were reportedly disqualified during the verification process.
The verification process started on Friday and ended on Saturday in Bulawayo.
<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200012519/ccc-bigwigs-fall-in-bulawayo">NewsDay</a> reported sources as saying most of the sitting councillors and some Members of Parliament were disqualified as the opposition party tries to remove suspected secret agents from genuine members.
Some aspiring candidates were reportedly disqualified for vote-buying and bussing supporters. Said a source:
<blockquote>
Besides the 11th-hour disqualification of almost all incumbents, the process proceeded smoothly in all wards except in ward 24, where the caucus didn’t take place on numerous allegations of bussing (in of voters).
</blockquote>
CCC deputy spokesperson Gift Siziba who will represent the party in Pelandaba-Tshabalala said:
<blockquote>
I have just received a report from our security department that some of my good friends have been vetted out because you know this struggle has taken too long, so we are dealing with sell-outs and nincompoops in our midst.
</blockquote>
Siziba made the remarks at the launch of the Deputy Prime Minister in the 2009-13 Government of National Unity, Arthur Mutambara’s book on Friday.
In Bulawayo’s Ward 25, there were alleged attempts to disqualify Alderman Mzamo Dube after he was overwhelmingly nominated. Said a source:
<blockquote>
The process was chaotic because whoever was able to transport people was ahead. The process was also slow, and there was sheer disregard for people’s time.
Vote-buying allegations were flying all over as some candidates were buying people with US$5 notes and alcohol.
</blockquote>
In Cowdray Park, former Deputy Prime Minister Thokozani Khupe will face Finance and Economic Development Minister Mthuli Ncube.
In Nkulumane, CCC will be represented by Desire Moyo, while Tendai Nyathi will represent the opposition party in Lobengula-Magwegwe where Kucaca Phulu is currently the MP.
The other nominees, subject to confirmation by the party are as follows:
<ul>
<li>Pumula – Chelesile Mahlangu</li>
<li>Bulawayo Central – urrender Kapoikulu</li>
<li>Luveve-Emakhandeni – Descent Bajila</li>
<li>Bulawayo North – Minenhle Gumede</li>
<li>Bulawayo South – Engineer Mangwendeza</li>
<li>Mpopoma-Mzilikazi – Desmond Makaza</li>
</ul>
Some CCC insiders claimed that ZANU PF affiliate, Forever Associates Zimbabwe (FAZ) was actively involved in several caucuses where they funded weaker candidates in various areas.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CCC Disqualifies Several Top Officials During Verification Process

ZANU PF plans to conduct fresh primary elections in various wards countrywide. This was revealed in a letter dated 25 April 2023, and addressed to all provincial chairpersons,  by ZANU PF national commissar, Mike Bimha.
He said re-runs will be conducted in wards where first rounds failed to produce winners, where uncontested winning candidates have pending court cases, and where the polls were never held due to recent changes in electoral boundaries. Reads the letter:
<blockquote>
The Commissariat Department acknowledges receipt of Local Authority Primary Election results conducted by all Provinces between 25 and 26 March 2023.
The Department has carried out an analysis of the results and is satisfied that the election process went on well in most of the Wards.
The Department is, however, alive to challenges encountered during the electoral process.
In some cases, there was no absolute winner due to equal votes by candidates while in other cases, uncontested winners have pending court cases and hence the Department in such cases recommends re-runs.
In other cases, the elections were not held for various reasons such as change of boundaries emanating from the delimitation exercise and hence elections should be conducted.
In view of the above, all Provinces are instructed to prepare for these Primary elections or in some cases Primary election re-runs to be conducted on 6 May 2023.
Provinces will be furnished with information pertaining to wards where Primary Elections or Primary Election re-runs should be conducted in due course.
</blockquote>
ZANU PF held primary elections on 25 March this year amid reports of violence, intimidation, and bussing of voters which resulted in the nullification of results in some constituencies which, in turn, necessitated re-runs.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF Set To Hold Primaries Reruns In Wards

The ZANU PF Politburo on Wednesday confirmed candidates who won in the primary elections re-runs held over the weekend.
Briefing the media after the Politburo meeting, ZANU PF National Political Commissar Mike Bimha revealed that the party had endorsed the victorious candidates after reruns held over the weekend.
Party spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa said the outcomes are testimony that there are no sacred cows in the party when it comes to democracy.
ZANU PF conducted primary elections reruns on Saturday in Churu, Mbare, Zvimba West, and Gokwe Nembudziya.
The winners are as follows: Fundukwa Ephraim (Churu), Matinyanya Martin (Mbare), Mercy Dinha (Zvimba West), and Flora Buka (Gokwe Nembudziya).
The losing candidates are Charles Matsika (Churu), Emmanuel Mahachi (Mbare), Ziyambi Ziyambi (Zvimba West), and Justice Mayor Wadyajena (Gokwe Nembudziya).
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF Politburo Confirms Primary Elections Reruns Results

ZANU PF on Monday announced the preliminary results of primary elections reruns held on Saturday in Churu, Mbare, Zvimba West, and Gokwe Nembudziya.
Party national political commissar Mike Bimha said the results are subject to confirmation by the Politburo.
The winners are as follows: Fundukwa Ephraim (Churu), Matinyanya Martin (Mbare), Mercy Dinha (Zvimba West), and Flora Buka (Gokwe Nembudziya).
The losing candidates are Charles Matsika (Churu), Emmanuel Mahachi (Mbare), Ziyambi Ziyambi (Zvimba West), and Justice Mayor Wadyajena (Gokwe Nembudziya).
In an interview with NewZimbabwe.com last Wednesday, Maruva-Dinha, who wife to former long-serving Mashonaland Central Governor, Martin Dinha, said:
<blockquote>
I might not know exactly why the people of Zvimba West no longer want the minister who has served them for more than 10 years, but what l know is that he was lacking and had his shortcomings.
The electorate wants an MP who resides among the people, and who comes back to them.
The problem with most senior politicians is they dump voters soon after elections only to return after five years.
I was motivated to contest for Zvimba West MP parliamentary seat because that’s my home area, my roots.
Besides, l am Zanu PF Women’s League provincial secretary for legal affairs and my colleagues and general electorate asked me to contest. The people are the ones that inspired me.
</blockquote>
Speaking to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200010320/ed-allies-humiliated">NewsDay</a> after the results of the 25 March primaries were announced, ZANU PF women’s league commissar Maybe Mbowa, who hails from Gokwe, where Wadyajena was defeated by Buka, said:
<blockquote>
He wanted to come so that he could continue with his corrupt tendencies, but people are not fools.
Mayor (Wadyajena) wanted a comeback so that he could have another chance to loot again.
The people of Gokwe have opened their eyes. They refuse to be oppressed by one person.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Spare Sithole is the ZANU PF candidate for Insiza South Constituency following the withdrawal of Andrew Langa ahead of the primary election rerun that was set for 22 April.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF Announces Results Of Primary Elections Reruns

ZANU PF Central Committee member Andrew Langa has withdrawn his candidature for the Insiza South Constituency primary election rerun scheduled for 22 April 2023.
Langa issued a statement on 16 April, explaining his decision to withdraw from the race.
He said he decided to withdraw his candidature in order “to maintain party stability in the constituency”.
Langa pledged to work with the ZANU PF candidate in the coming elections, Spare Sithole. Wrote Langa:
<blockquote>
After Consultations with our Party &amp; State President HE President ED Mnangagwa regarding the primary election rerun in Insiza South Constituency I hereby make this formal announcement:
1) That I Andrew Langa has withdrawn from the race in line with the wisdom provided by His Excellency to maintain party stability in the constituency and balance traditional leaders’ views on the Constituency.
2) That I will support the Party Candidate Hon Spare Sithole in the coming elections in order for the Party to retain the seat and we also work together to win votes for our President, MP and Councillors.
3) I call upon all those who were behind my candidature to accept my decision and work with the rest of the Party members to achieve the goal of ensuring that ZANU PF wins the seat.
4) I know that this may not be an easy decision for many but we need to accept it as it is in the interest of Party cohesion and unity which has always been the backbone of our Party.
5) I would like to thank all our campaign teams and mobilisers as well as those who voted for us. Let’s continue working on all Party programmes for our President to achieve 5 million votes.
</blockquote>
Last week, one of the candidates for the ZANU PF primary election re-run in the Zvimba West constituency Gifford Gomwe also withdrew his candidature.
Gomwe had come out a distant third in a three-horse race that was won by less than 100 votes by Maruva Mercy Dinha on 25 March.
However, according to unconfirmed results, Dinha won 6 022 votes while her challenger, Ziyambi Ziyambi garnered 2 331 votes in the rerun on 15 April.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Candidate Withdraws From Insiza South ZANU PF Primary Election Rerun

Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Ziyambi Ziyambi lost to Maruva Mercy Dinha again in the ZANU PF Primary elections rerun in Zvimba West yesterday.
This time Dinha beat Ziyambi by a bigger margin.
Reports indicate that almost 2 000 ZANU PF members who voted for Ziyambi in the initial election abandoned him in the rerun.
Ziyambi reportedly garnered 2 331 votes while Dinha won 6 022 votes in the rerun.
In elections held on 25 March, Dinha garnered 4 104. Ziyambi came out second, with 4 074 votes.
The third candidate, Gifford Gomwe, who won less than 1 000 votes, withdrew from the race before the rerun.
ZANU PF ordered a re-run in Zvimba West where an earlier primary election was marred by reports of violence and rigging.
ZANU PF also conducted reruns in Mbare, Churu, and Gokwe Nembudziya constituencies on Saturday. Another rerun will be held in Insiza South on 22 April.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Ziyambi Ziyambi Loses Again, This Time By A Wider Margin

The results of the ZANU PF primary election reruns will be announced on Monday, 17 April, the party’s Political Commissar Mike Bimha, has said.
ZANU PF held elections on Saturday in Mbare, Churu, Gokwe-Nembudziya, and Zvimba West constituencies.
The poll rerun for the Insiza South constituency has been scheduled for 22 April.
The <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/zanu-pf-reruns-results-out-tomorrow">Sunday Mail</a> reported that voting went on without incident at polling stations in Mbare and Churu constituencies.
Bimha said voting went on smoothly in all constituencies, saying there were no complaints of malpractices reported by the close of polls. He said:
<blockquote>
Everything went on very well at most polling stations.
Vote counting had already started by late afternoon and everything went according to plan.
The results will be announced on Monday.
As of now (yesterday), we have not received any complaints from any polling station.
</blockquote>
The candidates were as follows:
Mbare
<ul>
<li>Emmanuel Mahachi</li>
<li>Martin Matinyanya</li>
</ul>
Churu
<ul>
<li>Ephraim Fundukwa</li>
<li>Charles Matsika</li>
</ul>
Zvimba West
<ul>
<li>Ziyambi Ziyambi</li>
<li>Maruva Mercy Dinha</li>
</ul>
Gokwe-Nembudziya
<ul>
<li>Flora Buka</li>
<li>Justice Mayor Wadyajena</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF Primary Elections Reruns To Be Announced On 17 April

President Emmerson Mnangagwa reportedly ignored recommendations by a ZANU PF special ad-hoc committee that was established to deal with disputes emanating from the party’s primary elections.
The special-ad-hoc tribunal was chaired by ZANU PF secretary for legal affairs advocate Jacob Mudenda.
<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/thestandard/news/article/200009980/mnangagwa-saves-humiliated-zanu-pf-allies">The Standard</a> reported sources as saying Mnangagwa is trying to save allies who were defeated in the primaries.
Some of the alleged allies who were defeated are Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, Information Communication Technology Minister Jenfan Muswere, and Justice Mayor Wadyajena.
Muswere lost to Moses Ruwona in Makoni West. Ruwona has since been disqualified.
Reruns will be held in Zvimba West and in Gokwe-Nembudziya where Ziyambi and Wadyajena lost, respectively. Said a source:
<blockquote>
The special ad hoc tribunal committee was created by the politburo to deal with preliminary electoral matters on behalf of the Politburo but did not have the final say.
The politburo has the final say. The ad hoc committee only communicates findings and makes recommendations.
There were instances where Mnangagwa ignored the recommendations of the committee and personally dealt with some matters involving his allies.
</blockquote>
Last week ZANU PF national political commissar Mike Bimha told journalists that the committee sat several times and “entertained all the complaints.”
Some ministers and veteran politicians who were defeated in the primaries include Deputy ministers Kindness Paradza, John Mangwiro, and Mike Madiro.
ZANU PF will conduct reruns in Insiza South, Mbare, Churu, Gokwe Nembudziya, and Zvimba West.
In Mbare, Churu, Gokwe Nembudziya, and Zvimba West, the reruns will be conducted on 15 April 2023, while in Insiza South, the rerun will be held on 22 April.
In Zvimba West, the incumbent, Ziyambi, will face Maruva Mercy Dinha who won in the primaries before the results were nullified by the Politburo.
In Gokwe-Nembudziya, former Cabinet Minister Flora Buka will face incumbent MP, Justice Mayor Wadyajena again.
In the Mbare constituency, Martin Matinyanya faces ZANU PF Harare provincial youth chairman Emmanuel Mahachi.
In the Churu constituency, the party’s Harare provincial vice chairman, Ephraim Fundukwa, is contesting against Charles Matsika.
Voting will run from 7 AM-3 PM and thereafter, vote counting will start and will be finished by 6 PM.
Mbare constituency will have 10 polling stations, while Churu will have 25, Zvimba West 24, Insiza South 35, and Gokwe-Nembudziya 28.
Paul Mangwana and Kenneth Musanhi will supervise the rerun in Churu, in Mbare the supervisors will be Engelbert Rugeje and Mackenzie Ncube, Simbarashe Mumbengegwi and Elifas Mashaba will be supervisors in Zvimba West, while Douglas Mombeshora and Michael Nyambuya will monitor the rerun in Gokwe-Nembudziya.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"ZANU PF Primary Election Reruns Meant To Save Mnangagwa's Allies"

ZANU PF will conduct primary election reruns on 15 April in Mbare, Churu, Gokwe-Nembudziya and Zvimba West constituencies, while in Insiza South, a rerun will be conducted on 22 April.
Voting will run from 7 AM-3 PM and thereafter, vote counting will start and will be finished by 6 PM.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday night, ZANU PF National Political Commissar Mike Bimha said the results will be relayed to the Constituency Command Centre which in turn will advise the National Command Centre.
He said formal preliminary results will be announced on Monday next week. <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/zanu-pf-primaries-reruns-this-weekend/">The Herald</a> quoted Bimha as saying:
<blockquote>
The ad-hoc special committee has been meeting for several days to make sure that each and every complaint is received and considered and recommendations made to the Politburo.
Now that the reruns will be conducted, the tribunal will no longer meet to consider complaints from the primaries.
If the tribunal is going to sit, they will probably be sitting to consider complaints from the re-runs, but I don’t expect any.
In order to make sure that we have a smooth rerun, we have deployed Politburo members to the five constituencies. They will be at the Constituency Command Centre.
We have deployed two members of the Politburo to each constituency and these constituencies have varying numbers of polling stations and each polling centre will have a Central Committee member to supervise the elections at that polling station.
</blockquote>
He warned that if any candidate is accused of violence, he or she will be disqualified.
Mbare constituency will have 10 polling stations, while Churu will have 25, Zvimba West 24, Insiza South 35, and Gokwe-Nembudziya 28.
Paul Mangwana and Kenneth Musanhi will supervise the rerun in Churu, in Mbare the supervisors will be Engelbert Rugeje and Mackenzie Ncube, Simbarashe Mumbengegwi and Elifas Mashaba will be supervisors in Zvimba West, while Douglas Mombeshora and Michael Nyambuya will monitor the rerun in Gokwe-Nembudziya.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF Primary Elections Reruns On 15 April

Zvimba West sitting MP Ziyambi Ziyambi’s challenger for the scheduled ZANU PF primary poll re-run has refused to withdraw from the race.
Mercy Dinha Maruva, who won the first round of voting in Zvimba West, refused to withdraw from the race, despite the other candidate, Gifford Gomwe withdrawing his candidature.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200010092/major-hurdles-await-ziyambi">NewsDay</a>, Mariva said she will not withdraw from the race as she would disappoint her supporters. She said:
<blockquote>
There is no need for me to withdraw after all I was victorious.
I don’t want to disappoint the thousands of supporters who stood by me during the first round.
I must keep the trust they gave me and deliver better results for them.
Currently, I am moving around the constituency addressing supporters, and updating them on possible re-run as directed by the politburo.
</blockquote>
ZANU PF ordered a re-run in Zvimba West where an earlier primary election was marred by reports of violence and rigging.
ZANU PF is also going to conduct reruns in Insiza South, Mbare, Churu, and Gokwe Nembudziya constituencies.
Ziyambi, who is the Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, was among several cabinet ministers who lost in the primaries.
The other losers include Industry and Commerce Minister Sekai Nzenza, and Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Jenfan Muswere.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Ziyambi's Main Rival Refuses To Withdraw From ZANU PF Primary Election Rerun

One of the candidates for the ZANU PF primary election re-run in Zvimba West constituency Gifford Gomwe has withdrawn his candidature.
This leaves Maruva Mercy Dinha who won the first round to face incumbent Ziyambi Ziyambi, who is the Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister.
The election outcome was nullified by the ZANU PF Politburo following violent clashes between supporters of the candidates.
<a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/zvimba-west-primary-election-candidate-withdraws/">The Herald</a> reported Gomwe as saying unity and subsequent electoral success were more important than personal ambitions. He said:
<blockquote>
I have come to the decision to withdraw after considering the negative effects of divisions in the party (ZANU PF).
I feel we need to unite so that we meet the goals of the party to ensure a resounding victory for the President (Mnangagwa) and the party in upcoming General elections.
</blockquote>
Gomwe said he had a meeting with Ziyambi and other Mashonaland West party provincial members recently before he withdrew from the race.
He has since circulated a letter on social media platforms confirming his withdrawal from the race.
ZANU PF is also going to conduct reruns in Insiza South, Mbare, Churu, and Gokwe Nembudziya constituencies.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zvimba West ZANU PF Primary Election Candidate Withdraws

ZANU PF says more than three million people voted in its primary elections held recently. 
There are about six million registered voters in Zimbabwe and ZANU PF is targeting to garner up to five million votes in general elections set to be held later this year.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/three-million-vote-in-zanu-pf-primaries">The Sunday Mail</a>, ZANU PF director of information and publicity Cde Tafadzwa Mugwadi said:
<blockquote>
From the preliminary indications, we can safely say that three million people voted in the primary elections.
We are going to release the final figures soon. However, our preliminary observations show that the number of voters who participated was above three million.
</blockquote>
In some constituencies, the ZANU PF primary elections were marred by violence and re-runs are set to be held in Zvimba West, Gokwe-Nembudziya, Mbare, Insiza South and Churu.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"3 Million People Voted In ZANU PF Primary Elections"

Nelson Chamisa has been nominated as the presidential candidate of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) for the 2023 national harmonised elections, which are set to take place sometime between July 26 and August 26. His nomination was unanimous.
The nomination process was held on Wednesday to choose members who shall represent the party in the upcoming elections.
Among the nominated members is former Kwekwe mayor <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Angeline_Kasipo">Angeline Kasipo</a> who was chosen to represent her constituency. Kasipo was recently suspended from the council by Local Government Minister July Moyo together with two councillors, ZANU PF’s Makomborero Mlambo and CCC’s Melody Chingarande. The trio was suspended after pushing to have a recently adopted Kwekwe City budget withdrawn arguing it was too steep for hard-pressed residents. Kasipo said confirmed her nomination. <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/former-midlands-mayors-nominated-in-cccs-candidate-selection/">NewZimbabwe</a> quotes her as saying:
<blockquote>
Yes, it’s true I was nominated by various stakeholders to represent Kwekwe in parliament. The party has some other processes which it needs to conclude before one finally get to be a candidate eventually.
</blockquote>
In Gweru another former mayor, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Josiah_Makombe">Josiah Makombe</a> was also nominated to represent Gweru Urban in Parliament. 
Current Kwekwe Member of Parliament, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Judith_Tobaiwa">Judith Tobaiwa</a> also received a nomination to represent the constituency.
Mbizo Legislator <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Settlement_Chikwinya">Settlement Chikwinya</a> is battling for selection with Corban Madzivanyika.
In Redcliff, current Member of Parliament, Lloyd Mukapiko was unanimously endorsed.
In Silobela, stakeholders endorsed lawyer Ephraim Ndlovu ahead of losing 2018 parliamentary candidate Fanuel Sibindi.
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Fadzayi_Mahere">Fadzayi Mahere</a>, the party’s spokesperson said there is going to be a re-run in areas where violence was recorded and anyone who participated in violence will be disqualified.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

List Of Some CCC Members Nominated To Contest In 2023 Elections

The opposition <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Citizens%27_Coalition_for_Change">Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC)</a> has stated that nominees involved in the <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/ccc-candidates-selection-process-marred-by-violence/">violence witnessed during their selection process</a> on Wednesday would be automatically disqualified.
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Fadzayi_Mahere">Fadzayi Mahere</a>, the party’s national spokesperson condemned the violence and stated that any person responsible or involved in violence would not be allowed to participate in their candidate selection process. She said the party will vet nominees and consult with community stakeholders for their recommendations on candidates. The selection process was disrupted at some centres due to clashes among candidates. Mahere told a press conference in Harare on Thursday:
<blockquote>
Violence is a ZANU PF culture and we condemn it in its totality. Any person found responsible for violence or causing violence will be automatically disqualified from any form of participation in our candidate selection process…
Thereafter, the very important community consensus which builds part of the panel starts. There will be citizen caucuses, where citizens will come together and will be told of who their candidates are and asked of their preference.
</blockquote>
According to a report by the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Peace_Project">Zimbabwe Peace Project (ZPP)</a>, violence was witnessed by their monitors in Glen View, Harare, and Zengeza West constituency in Chitungwiza.
Reports of <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/zanu-pf-set-for-primary-elections-re-runs-in-violence-hotspots/">violence also marred</a> the ZANU PF primaries held last week. The party has since directed that re-runs will be held in areas where violence was recorded.
Elections in Zimbabwe have a history of violence, including intimidation, harassment, and physical violence against opposition members, human rights activists, and others. There have also been reports of state-sponsored violence and restrictions on freedoms, which have raised concerns about the fairness and credibility of the electoral process.
Zimbabwe has also experienced violence both between different political parties (interparty) and within the same party (intraparty). However, there have been some improvements in recent years. In the 2013 and 2018 elections, there were reports of violence and intimidation, but they were not as widespread as before.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

CCC Nominees Involved In Violence During Nomination Process Will Be Disqualified - Mahere

CCC’s candidates selection process on Wednesday was marred by violence, reports of imposition of candidates and other malpractices, reported <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200009807/violence-mars-ccc-candidates-selection">NewsDay</a>.
For instance, in Beitbridge West, at a number of wards, the nominations were reportedly abandoned altogether due to violence.
In several centres, the selection process reportedly started later than the scheduled time as members and presiding officers were not clear on the procedures.
In Glen Norah, Harare, former Harare mayor Herbert Gomba’s supporters allegedly assaulted another aspirant Womberai Nhende.
Both the Citizens Coalition for Change and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the violence.
CCC deputy spokesperson Gift Siziba told NewsDay that ZANU PF members infiltrated the process. He said:
<blockquote>
We have had some incidents where the proceedings were disrupted by intruders.
The proceedings were open to our members only, but ZANU PF infiltrated the processes.
</blockquote>
ZRP national spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said they were aware of “alleged clashes” but no report had been made to the police. He said:
<blockquote>
We have heard of some disturbances and alleged clashes, but as police, we have not received any official complaint. No one has come forward to report the cases.
</blockquote>
CCC conducted the selection process to choose candidates to stand at the council, parliament, and presidential level in upcoming general elections.
The opposition party decided not to hold primary elections but to allow communities to select suitable party representatives to contest the 2023 elections.
The process was overseen by an Independent Candidate Selection Panel (ICSP).
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CCC Candidates Selection Process Marred By Violence

The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) will not conduct primary elections to select candidates to stand at the council, parliament, and presidential level in upcoming general elections.
Instead, the CCC says communities will select suitable party representatives to contest the 2023 elections on Wednesday 5 April.
This was announced by CCC elections officer Ian Makone while addressing a news conference in Harare on Thursday.
Makoni said the process is going to be overseen by an Independent Candidate Selection Panel (ICSP).
He said only communities that have signed into the CCC’s database will select the party representatives. Said Makone:
<blockquote>
The selection process will be conducted by an ICSP and community members who have signed into the party’s database will be consulted to nominate their preferred representatives.
In the event that more than one nominee comes up for a position, there will be a process of consultation in the community, followed by a second round of interface with the community to arrive at a single candidate for the elected position.
All nominated individuals will undergo an internal vetting process to ensure their suitability for the position.
The selection process will be presided over by an Independent Candidate Selection Panel, which is composed of independent eminent members of the community.
The validation process will be a complicated one, and a grievance-handling committee will be in place to address any complaints from candidates who feel they have been shortchanged.
The nomination process will commence on April 5th, and the party will be present in all the wards nationally.
If more than one nominee emerges from the process for any electable position, the Citizens National Assembly will convene to provide directions in terms of the consensus-building process.
</blockquote>
According to <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/ccc-joins-queue-as-ccc-sets-date-for-poll-candidate-selection/">ZimLive</a>, CCC’s candidate selection criterion is unprecedented in the history of Zimbabwe’s mainstream politics.
The ruling ZANU PF conducted primary elections over the past weekend, with cases of violence reported from some polling stations.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200009522/ed-demands-re-run-in-violence-hotspots">Pindula News</a>

CCC Ditches Primary Elections, Communities To Select Candidates

Seventeen (17) out of twenty-two (22) ZANU PF sitting MPs in Manicaland Province lost in the primary elections held over the weekend, reported <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/17-zanu-pf-sitting-mps-bite-the-dust/">The Manica Post</a>.
Joshua Sacco was uncontested in Chimanimani East while Chido Sanyatwe and Supa Mandiwanzira retained their constituencies, that is, Nyanga North and Nyanga South respectively.
Misheck Mugadza also won in Mutasa South while Raymore Machingura sailed through in Chipinge Central, Isau Mupfumi won in Mutare Central, and Shepard Nyika in Makoni Central.
Moses Ruwona defeated Makoni West sitting MP and Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister, Jenfan Muswere.
In Makoni North, ZANU PF will be represented by Joseph Muwombi who defeated the incumbent legislator, James Munetsi while Albert Nyakuedzwa will represent the party in Makoni South.
Innocent Benza won in Mutasa Central, while Obey Bvute defeated Chido Madiwa in Mutasa North Constituency.
In Buhera South, Joseph Chinotimba lost to Ngonidzashe Mudekunye, while Cde Tafadzwa Mugwadi beat Saul Nzuma in Buhera West.
Phillip Guyo will represent ZANU PF in Buhera North after William Mutomba opted for the Senate slot.
Samson Matema beat Gijima Nyashanu in Buhera Central, Admire Mahachi defeated Transport and Infrastructural Development Deputy Minister, Mike Madiro.
Clide Jani will represent ZANU PF in Dangamvura, Kenneth Muchina will represent ZANU PF in Chikanga, and Godfrey Harahwa will represent the party in Mutare South after beating Jefry Ngome.
Brighton Mwanengureni beat Percy Muchimwe in Mutare West, and Lincoln Dhliwayo will represent ZANU PF in Chipinge East.
Joshua Murire beat Angelina Gata in Mutema-Musikavanhu, while Enock Porusingazi lost his Chipinge South Constituency to Robert Nyemudzo.
In Chimanimani West, Wilson Maphosa beat the sitting MP and Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Nokhutula Matsikenyere.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200009522/ed-demands-re-run-in-violence-hotspots">Pindula News</a>

17 Out Of 22 ZANU PF MPs In Manicaland Lose In Primaries

President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is the ZANU PF First Secretary, has ordered a re-run of primary elections in areas where there were incidents of violence.
Mnangagwa made the directive while addressing the politburo at the party headquarters in Harare on Thursday.
Addressing journalists after the politburo meeting last night, ZANU PF Secretary for Information and Publicity Christopher Mutsvangwa said Mnangagwa condemned the violence. Said Mutsvangwa:
<blockquote>
One aspect which came out is that if there were any instances of violence in any particular constituency or ward, the President is a hardliner, he is on record for zero tolerance to violence and was very clear that charity begins at home.
If there were instances of violence carried [out] by either or both of the candidates there could be some disqualifications. If the violence was mutual there are going to be some re-runs
I am not going to announce when the re-runs will be because we would like to have a comprehensive list, when the whole process is done we will come to you.
</blockquote>
ZANU PF held primaries last weekend and there were reports of gunshots having been fired, kidnapping, and rape in some areas.
Some cabinet ministers and ministers of State for provincial affairs and long-serving members of parliament lost in the primaries.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200009522/ed-demands-re-run-in-violence-hotspots">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF Set For Primary Elections Re-runs In Violence Hotspots

ZANU PF National Political Commissar Mike Bimha has said results from primary elections held over the weekend will only become official after they have been discussed in the politburo.
Some government officials including Ministry of Information permanent secretary Nick Mangwana have been announcing the results on social media platforms but Bimha said those results being posted on Twitter are preliminary and not final.
Briefing journalists at the party headquarters in Harare on Monday, Bimha said only the national command centre has the mandate to announce results. Said Bimha:
<blockquote>
The official results of the primary elections are announced by the national command centre at the party headquarters.
There could be other sources giving information through Twitter, but those results are not official.
We need to be very thorough and verify these results. In most areas, results are posted at the centre and they remain unofficial.
These results are preliminary as they are subjected to discussion in the Politburo, after that, they can be final results.
</blockquote>
He said an ad-hoc special tribunal is set to meet tomorrow to consider complaints that have been raised by some candidates.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"ZANU PF Primary Election Results Being Posted On Twitter Not Official"

Preliminary results from ZANU PF primary elections in Mashonaland Central indicate that 12 sitting MPs were defeated and will not stand for the ruling party in upcoming elections.
The province has 18 constituencies and only six candidates retained their seats, reported <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/12-mps-bite-the-dust-in-mashonaland-central/">The Herald</a>.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Monica Mavhunga reportedly lost the senatorial seat to Nicholas Goche.
Those who were retained by voters are ZANU PF Provincial Chairperson Kazembe Kazembe (Mazowe West), Politburo member Kenneth Musanhu (Bindura North), Tendai Nyabani (Rushinga), Minister of Energy and Power Development Zhemu Soda, Douglas Karoro (Mbire) and Remigious Matangira (Bindura South).
The entire Mt Darwin and Guruve constituencies have new faces, with the old guard rejected by voters.
Stephen Kabozo (Mt Darwin South) lost to Cde Kudakwashe Mupamhanga, Cde Norman Marikisi (Mt Darwin East) was beaten by Cde Dzidzai Burau, Cde Barnwell Seremwe (Mt Darwin West) was dislodged by Cde Witness Jonga, Cde Noveti Muponora (Mt Darwin North) came second best to Cde Laban Munemo.
In Guruve South, Patrick Dutiro lost to provincial vice chairperson Colonel Christopher Magomo while Girovha Dzapasi (Guruve North) lost to Tendai Pinduka.
Mazowe North was one of the most interesting constituencies where Campion Mugweni was battling Advocate Martin Dinha, Tafadzwa Musarara and Tsungi Makumbe.
Tsungi Makumbe won the Mazowe North seat.
In Muzarabani South, Tapera Saizi lost to Benjamin Kabikira.
In Shamva South, sitting MP Bramwell Bushu lost to Joseph Mapiki who is returning having lost to Bushu in the previous election. Oscar Gorerino (Shamva North) lost to Isaac Chinodakufa.
Reports also indicate that Lazarus Dokora and James Makamba won senate seats in Rushinga and Mt Darwin respectively.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

12 Out Of 18 Sitting ZANU PF MPs Lose In Primary Elections In Mashonaland Central

Five ministers were among prominent ZANU PF members who were defeated in primary elections held over the weekend.
Speaking on State television on Sunday night, ZANU PF political commissar Mike Bimha said results had started trickling in. He said:
<blockquote>
We should have all the results in the 10 provinces by tomorrow (Monday). We have also received complaints and we hope that the ad hoc committee will meet tomorrow to consider those complaints.
</blockquote>
According to <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/chinotimba-nduma-and-3-ministers-fall-in-zanu-pf-primaries/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, Industry and Commerce Minister <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Sekai_Nzenza">Sekai Nzenza</a> was defeated by Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona in Chikomba East.
In a post on Twitter, Presidential spokesperson George Charamba said Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister, Jenfan Muswere (Makoni West) and Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Deputy Minister Kindness Paradza (Makonde) lost in the primaries. Wrote Charamba:
<blockquote>
Democracy is alive in ZANU PF. Big names are falling by the wayside this time and its game on for the revolutionary party. Chiyangwa, Nzenza, Chinotimba, Muswere, Wwbster Shamhu, Mary Mliswa, and Kindness Paradza just to mention a few have gracefully bowed out. Kunofiwa bhudhi.
</blockquote>
Two provincial affairs ministers also lost in the primaries.
Manicaland Province Minister of State and Devolution Nokhutula Matsikinyere lost to Wilson Maposa while in Mashonaland West Mary Mliswa was defeated in the Hurungwe West.
War veteran and trade unionist Joseph Chinotimba lost to Ngonidzashe Mudekunye in Buhera South while Dexter Nduna, who was recently filmed on his knees, begging for votes, was defeated in Chegutu West.
ZANU PF deputy political commissar Webster Shamu was defeated in Chegutu East.
Meanwhile, Herentals Football Club owner, Innocent Benza, won the right to represent the party in the Mutasa Central constituency.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Five Ministers Lose In ZANU PF Primary Elections

ZANU PF’s primary elections in Bulawayo on Saturday were characterised by frustrated voters, delays and missing ballot papers.
The ruling party established 71 polling stations in Bulawayo for its primaries but some party members spent hours in queues even though voting was supposed to start at 7 AM.
According to <a href="https://cite.org.zw/missing-ballots-frustration-and-delays-mark-zanu-pf-polls-in-byo/">CITE</a>, in Ward 9, there were missing ballot papers for some of the candidates.
One of the candidates demanded that the voting process should be stopped as his name and supporters’ cell structures were missing.
However, the presiding officer, Matate Magura told the candidate he was not supposed to be there and also complained that some agents had insulted her.
Magura said voting started at 8.45 AM and was going smoothly until Mabuthweni voters realised their names were not appearing on the voters’ roll. She said:
<blockquote>
I advised them to sit under the trees while I inquired from Davies Hall what happened to those cells. I was advised to continue working with the information that was there.
</blockquote>
Magura’s remarks did not go well with the Mabuthweni voters who caused a commotion prompting her to call police officers to disperse them from the polling station.
She later informed the voters that their names had been located and they would be allowed to vote.
Some polling stations had no stationery. At a polling station in Ward 12 voting had not started at 11 AM, reported CITE.
Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister for Bulawayo, Judith Makwande Ncube was in the running for the women’s quota for the Pelandaba-Tshabalala constituency.
Finance and Economic Development Minister Mthuli Ncube and Industry and Commerce Deputy Minister Raj Modi sailed through uncontested for Cowdray Park and Bulawayo South constituencies, respectively.
ZANU PF political commissar Mike Bimha said all results will be officially announced at the National Command Centre at the party headquarters this week, once voting closes and due processes have been followed.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Missing Ballot Papers, Candidates' Names Delay ZANU PF Primaries

War veteran and trade unionist <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Joseph_Chinotimba">Joseph Chinotimba</a>, who has been Buhera South MP since 2013, will not be able to retain the seat on a ZANU PF ticket in the upcoming elections following his loss to Ngoni Mudekunye in yesterday’s primary elections.
Reports indicate that Chinotimba lost the election by a huge margin after polling a paltry 1 356 votes.
Ngoni Mudekunye garnered 7 890 votes, and the other candidate, one F. Chimbare got 2 870 votes.
In May 2022, Chinotimba got himself in trouble for referring to President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa in public as “Mnangagwa” without his full title.
ZANU PF officials and members are wont to use Mnangagwa’s full titles, The First Secretary, His Excellency, The President, Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, when addressing him in public.
In an address to a gathering in his constituency, Chinotimba accused Mnangagwa of plotting to dislodge him in Buhera South by imposing his preferred candidate, Mudekunye. Chinotimba said:
<blockquote>
You elected me into this post. Why are you now saying I must go? I have done development projects including installing electricity at your school. This Mudekunye is not going anywhere. That’s why Mnangagwa is now imposing his preferred candidates on grounds that they are learned…
</blockquote>
Chinotimba eventually visited State House and apologised to Mnangagwa for his remarks after he was put under immense pressure.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chinotimba Loses To Ngoni Mudekunye In ZANU PF Primaries

ZANU PF has extended voting in some areas to Sunday, 26 March after voters turned out in huge numbers during the party’s primary elections held in eight provinces across the country on Saturday, reported <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/massive-turnout-in-zanu-pf-primaries-2">The Sunday Mail</a>.
Masvingo and Midlands provinces, which did not conduct the intra-party polls yesterday, are expected to do so today.
Addressing a press conference at the party’s headquarters in Harare on Saturday, ZANU PF national political commissar Mike Bimha said:
<blockquote>
This demonstrates the organisational capacity and capability of our tried and tested revolutionary party.
All things considered, this primary election is geared to be a great success.
Due to the multitudes of our party faithful, who thronged polling stations across the country, the party has been compelled to extend voting in some areas to tomorrow (today), March 26, 2023.
Only the voting centres that did not complete the voting exercise are expected to resume the voting process until lunchtime.
As reported earlier, Masvingo and Midlands will commence the voting process tomorrow (today) from 0700hrs to 1600hrs.
We are expecting 4.3 million registered card-carrying party members to vote in this primary election.
</blockquote>
Bimha said all results will be officially announced at the National Command Centre at the party headquarters this week, once voting closes and due processes have been followed.
Meanwhile, Radio Zimbabwe presenter Richmond Siyakurima is among several candidates challenging Simbaneuta Mudarikwa in Uzumba.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Voting Extended In ZANU PF Primaries

Traditional leaders in Masvingo Province mainly in Zaka District were reportedly defrauding ZANU PF candidates who were campaigning ahead of party primary elections set for 25 and 26 March 2023.
<a href="https://tellzim.com/traditional-leaders-milking-zanu-pf-candidates/">TellZim News</a> heard that some Chiefs were demanding up to US$500 to allow candidates to gather people in their areas of jurisdiction.
Headmen were reportedly demanding US$20, with village heads asking for at least US$10. Said a source:
<blockquote>
When I went to Chief Nhema’s area mainly wards 1, 2, 5 and 10, I talked to the party chairpersons in that area and they told me that they have no power to gather people without Chief Nhema’s approval.
The Chief then demanded US$500 for him to allow me to gather people in his area and I am having challenges campaigning in his area.
</blockquote>
Another source claimed that the practice was rampant in all three Chiefdoms in the district. Said the source:
<blockquote>
If you want to campaign in Zaka, you have to pay a fee which they call ‘mari yefodya yamambo’ (The Chief’s snuff).
All village heads demand a flat fee of US$ 10 while headmen demand a flat fee of US$ 20.
The amount varies with Chiefs, others charge you while others will accept anything like US$50.
</blockquote>
Chief Nhema born Rangarirai Bwawanda, however, dismissed the allegations as fake. He said:
<blockquote>
Who lied to you like that? There is nothing like that and please tell me who told you so that we ask him where and when I demanded that money.
</blockquote>
One aspirant, Davies Marapira, who was with Chief Nhema said the snuff fee was the custom everywhere in Zimbabwe adding people ought to respect traditional leaders. Marapira said:
<blockquote>
Chief Nhema doesn’t charge people. However, one has to give the Chief a token called ‘fodya yaMambo’ and it’s a tradition even if you go to your home area and ask the Chief, he will tell you the same.
You cannot just gather people in an area without paying that token to the traditional leaders.
I have been addressing people today and have since given the token to headman Gonese whose area I was in. I am yet to give the Chief his, but he never demands.
</blockquote>
Section 281 (2) of the Constitution forbids traditional leaders from being members of any political party or in any way participating in partisan politics, acting in a partisan manner, furthering the interests of any political party or cause or violating the fundamental rights and freedoms of any person.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Traditional Leaders In Masvingo "Milking" ZANU PF Candidates | Report

ZANU PF member Edison Zvobgo Junior has allegedly threatened to evict the party from his premises if fails to win Sunday’s primary elections.
According to <a href="https://tellzim.com/zvobgo-threatens-to-kick-out-zanu-pf-from-offices-if-he-loses-primaries/">TellZim News</a>, ZANU PF Masvingo provincial offices are currently at the Chevron Hotel, which is part of the Regency Group run by Zvobgo.
Zvobgo is contesting the ZANU PF primaries for the third time and has lost in both previous attempts.
He lost two party primaries in two different constituencies (Masvingo Central in 2013 and Masvingo Urban in 2018).
Zvobgo allegedly issued the threat to evict ZANU PF from his building while addressing party supporters during one of his campaign rallies at Rarangwe Primary School in Masvingo Central.
ZANU PF reportedly made special arrangements with the Zvogbos and has not been paying rentals for over 15 years now.
Now, Zvobgo apparently feels that the party should honour him by making sure that he wins the Masvingo Central primaries where he will be tussling out with six other candidates.
Contacted for comment by TellZim News, Zvobgo denied the claims, saying his opponents could be behind the allegations. He said:
<blockquote>
That is a lie, I have never said that, those could be bombs being thrown in my way by opponents and this is common during elections.
I am the son of two national heroes and I am pure ZANU PF. I have been housing the party for more than 15 years so I cannot say that now.
</blockquote>
TellZim quoted sources who were present at the rally as saying Zvobgo warned that if he loses again he will kick the provincial secretariat out of his offices. Said a source:
<blockquote>
Zvogbo said it is high time the party recognizes his efforts by making sure that he wins the forthcoming primaries because he has been housing the ZANU PF provincial headquarters for years now for free.
If not voted, he will contemplate giving them the notice to vacate his premises at Chevron hotel.
</blockquote>
ZANU PF Provincial Party Chairperson Robson Mavhenyengwa said he was not aware of the threats but said if it was true, maybe Zvobgo will communicate with his office. He said:
<blockquote>
I haven’t heard of that, people can say things wherever they are and if that is true maybe he will communicate with my office, but as of now he hasn’t communicated with us.
Probably he will communicate after the primary elections.
ZANU PF has an agreement with Cde Zvobgo and Regency which I cannot discuss.
</blockquote>
Zvobgo is contesting Masvingo Central in tomorrow’s primaries, with the other candidates being Edmund Mhere, Phainos Makwarimba, Achson Mupandawana, Victor Charumbira, Mutati Nyikadzino and Eddison Nechasike.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zvobgo Threatens To Evict ZANU PF From Offices If He Loses Primaries

A sitting ZANU PF councillor in Bindura was reportedly assaulted by a Bindura University of Science Education (BUSE) student during a campaign rally on 17 March this year.
According to the Zimbabwe Peace Project (ZPP), Bindura North Ward 12 Councillor, Wendile Machisi was assaulted by one Webester, who accused him of bedding his wife.
During the assault, Machisi did not retaliate but remained calm for fear he will be disqualified ahead of the ZANU PF primary elections. <a href="https://twitter.com/zppINFO/status/1639542607679303680">ZPP said:</a>
<blockquote>
On 17 March, in Bindura North Ward 12, ZANU PF sitting councillor Wendile Machisi was assaulted by a Bindura University student identified as Webester during a campaign rally at the Progress Shopping Centre bus terminus.
The incident happened around 5 PM when Machisi was addressing residents ahead of the ruling party primary elections.
Machisi was slapped in the face by Webester who accused him of having an affair with his wife.
Machisi did not fight back but only warned his bodyguards to remain calm in fear of being disqualified.
</blockquote>
This comes after ZANU PF Harare Provincial Commissar <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/zanu-pf-official-barred-from-primaries-for-assaulting-zec-officials/">Kudakwashe Damson was barred from participating in the upcoming primary elections</a> for allegedly assaulting Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) officials who were on duty conducting voter education in Epworth recently.
ZANU PF is holding primary elections today, Saturday 25 March to select candidates for the party in the upcoming general elections.
ZANU PF Secretary for the Commissariat Mike Bimha on Friday said primary elections will be held in all provinces today except Masvingo and Midlands where they will conducted on Sunday, 26 March.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF Councillor Assaulted During Campaign Rally

ZANU PF is set to hold primary elections today, Saturday 25 March to select candidates for the party in the upcoming general elections.
ZANU PF Secretary for the Commissariat Mike Bimha on Friday said primary elections will be held in all provinces today except Masvingo and Midlands.
Primary elections in Masvingo and the Midlands provinces were postponed to Sunday due to “logistical challenges”. Said Bimha:
<blockquote>
All provinces except Masvingo and Midlands Provinces will conduct their elections tomorrow (today) Saturday 25 March 2023.
However, Masvingo and Midlands Provinces will conduct their elections on Sunday 26 March 2023.
</blockquote>
According to <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/its-election-time-in-zanu-pf-today/">the Chronicle</a>, of the 47 candidates who lodged complaints with the party after approval of 99 percent of all submissions, 37 have been allowed to contest. Said Bimha:
<blockquote>
We are good to go and hope that our members will come in their numbers and vote for their candidates between 7 AM-4 PM.
We received complaints in writing and the ad-hoc special tribunal sat to consider 47 appeals and I am glad to report that out of the 47 appeals, 37 of these have been allowed to participate.
They have now been recommended and approved. Only 10 out of the 47 have not been successful. These are candidates who did not meet the criteria.
</blockquote>
The ZANU PF primary elections were initially penned for last Saturday but were postponed after the party received “an overwhelming” number of applications.
A total of 2 858 CVs were submitted, with 99.9% of aspiring candidates making it through the vetting process.
Midlands Province alone has a total of 1 429 CVs while Bulawayo Province has the lowest with 85 CVs submitted.
A number of candidates in the Midlands, which is President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s home province, will not be challenged.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF To Hold Primary Elections This Weekend

ZANU PF Harare Provincial Commissar Kudakwashe Damson was barred from participating in the upcoming primary elections for allegedly assaulting Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) officials who were on duty conducting voter education in Epworth recently, reported <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/primaries-get-all-clear/">The Herald</a>.
Damson is facing charges of contravening the Electoral Act by obstructing ZEC proceedings. He was remanded to 5 April on a $50 000 bail.
This was said by ZANU PF Secretary for Information and Publicity Christopher Mutsvangwa while addressing the media at a post-extraordinary Politburo session in Harare on Monday, 20 March. Said Mutsvangwa:
<blockquote>
We await the justice system to guide us in decision-making. Cde Damson, the PC for Harare province was disqualified.
We hope he will accept the decision. He still has a future in the party and is a hard worker.
The President stresses that the party is bigger than individuals.
This also goes to show that there is zero tolerance for violence There is zero tolerance against corruption and violence.
</blockquote>
He also said the Politburo approved at least 99.9 percent of CVs of aspiring primary elections candidates.
Mutsvangwa said President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is the ZANU PF First Secretary, will soon announce the dates of the primaries.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

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