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Prominent lawyer and advocate Thabani Mpofu has written a letter to the Chairperson of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), Justice Priscilla Chigumba, challenging her to publicly refute the claims made by Lieutenant General Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe regarding the military’s ability to impose “command voting.”
Last month, the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) commander, Lt. General Sanyatwe, was quoted as stating that the army will employ “command voting” in elections and that the ruling ZANU PF party would “rule forever.”
In a letter dated July 12, 2024, Mpofu demanded that Chigumba issue a firm public statement refuting Sanyatwe’s claims and providing assurances that ZEC is not beholden to or influenced by the army’s directives.
Mpofu has given Chigumba a seven-day deadline to address Lt. General Sanyatwe’s assertions about the military’s ability to manipulate the electoral process to ensure ZANU PF’s perpetual rule in Zimbabwe. Wrote Mpofu:
<blockquote>
I am writing to bring to your attention concerning remarks made by General Sanyatwe, the Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army about elections in Zimbabwe. I have in my possession videographic evidence of him uttering words to the following effect:
“… Zanu (PF) shall rule until donkeys grow horns, whatever your stated and expressed wishes. I am now speaking as the Commander of the Army. We shall use what is called Command Voting. . . Do we understand each other?”
In these remarks, General Sanyatwe not only wades into issues beyond his constitutional remit but also asserts, his as well as the army’s preparedness to undermine the vote and not respect its sanctity. Your Commission’s ability to deliver a credible election has been put in issue by remarks that suggest its complicity in undermining the popular will.
I wonder whether there is any truth to the sting of General Sanyatwe’s assertion.
If you consider this assertion false, I kindly request that you publicly refute it with a firm assurance that your commission is not on the army’s back and call.
If you choose reticence, I kindly request that you account for it, the statement considered. General Sanyatwe’s statement undermines the trust and confidence of the electorate in the electoral process. This as you are aware, has been no small issue.
A clear and prompt refutation of this assertion will help to maintain the integrity of the electoral process and reassure the public that the Electoral Commission is committed to upholding the sanctity of the vote.
Your attention is drawn to sections 155(1), 156(c)(i), 233 and 239 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, 2013 and to the obligations that have been triggered by this tainted tale.
The failure to call out this constitutional delinquency most indubitably has consequences.
I would appreciate your attention to this grave matter within 7 days.
</blockquote>
On July 3, 2024, Mpofu wrote to Sanyatwe demanding an unequivocal withdrawal of his previous remarks regarding the military’s ability to employ “command voting” to ensure ZANU PF’s perpetual rule.
Mpofu stated that Sanyatwe’s comments violated Zimbabwe’s national constitution, the Defence Act, and the Electoral Act, and he gave the military leader a seven-day deadline to retract his claims.
Today, Mpofu has reiterated his demand, clarifying that he is giving Sanyatwe a full seven days, excluding weekends, to publicly retract his statements.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Lawyer Thabani Mpofu is challenging ZEC Chairperson, Justice Priscilla Chigumba, to say that the military can't control voting. A general said the army would use "command voting" to keep the ruling party in power. Mpofu wants Chigumba to deny this claim. He also asked the general to take back his words. Mpofu thinks these statements break the laws. He gave them both a week to correct their words. Mpofu wants to make sure voting is fair and honest.

Lawyer Thabani Mpofu Calls On ZEC Chairperson To Refute General Sanyatwe's "Command Voting" Remarks

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) tender scandal is far wider and deeper than initially thought, reported The NewsHawks.
The tender scandal reportedly involved more than US$100 million in public funds looted through fraudulent and inflated pricing of electoral material supplies during Zimbabwe’s disputed 2023 general elections.
According to The NewsHawks, the various supplies to ZEC were provided by South African company Ren-Form CC and its agents, including Better Brands Security (Pvt) Ltd, a local company.
Prices were reportedly inflated by up to 235%.
The report further states that the key players in the US$100 million deal were ZEC chairperson Priscilla Chigumba, ZEC chief electoral officer Utloile Silaigwana, ZEC chief procurement officer Robson Changachirere, Chivayo, Moses Mpofu, Pedzai “Scott” Sakupwanya and Mike Chimombe, Central Intelligence Organisation Director-General Isaac Moyo, Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet Martin Rushwaya, lawyer Everson Chatambudza, Ren-Form international sales executive Angus Carlaw and the company chief executive Thomas Michel du Sart. It reads in part:
<blockquote>
For ease of reference, here is the breakdown of the more than US$100 million which was used during the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission election tender last year.
There is the US$40 million main component delivered in two parts for the biometric voter registration kits.
To be specific, the first total tranche under which various payments were made was US$ 19,957,301. 
The other part was a similar amount. This is clear in the leaked corruption dossier.
However, total invoices and subsequent payments attached to the dossier now publicly available amount to US$69 million.
The US$40 million is part of the US$69 million cost. The breakdown of the US$69 million comprises the following payments: US$2 673 360; US$4 919 592; US$8 964 693.80; US$3 544 526; US$4 025 559; US$4 126 500; US$4 786 800; US$5 000 000; US$4 989 325.50; US$3 946 626.50; US$5 731 979.50; US$5 907 123.30; US$5 992 334; and US$4 513 218.
</blockquote>
There were other payments amounting to US$21 million for items such as canvas tents, ballot papers, solar lights and indelible ink-marking pens for the elections.
ZEC says it spent US$21 148 867 on importing material for the elections. This also entails materials like solar lights, tents, ballot paper and display kits for V11 forms.
However, documents seen by The NewsHawks show that the outlay on election materials included the US$69 million and US$21 million, bringing it to US$90 million.
There were also other transactions, for instance, ZEC’s order for 2,000 non-flushable toilets on the eve of the August 2023 elections for US$7.6 million.
The toilets, priced at US$3 800 per unit when they retail for about US$300 in South Africa, were only delivered in April 2024, eight months after the elections.
ZEC also spent US$5 million on gadgets to display voting returns and digital V11 polling station forms, for last August’s election, but those devices, bought at inflated prices, were only delivered months after the polls.
This brings the total amount of the deal to more than US$100 million.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The ZEC tender scandal in Zimbabwe involved over US$100 million being stolen by inflating prices for electoral supplies during the 2023 general elections. The scandal involved key players like ZEC chairperson Priscilla Chigumba and others. The inflated prices for supplies like voter registration kits and other election materials were part of the scheme. ZEC also spent a large amount on unnecessary items like expensive toilets and gadgets. Overall, the scandal involved a lot of money being misused for the elections.

"ZEC Tender Scandal Is Far Wider And Deeper"

Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee has summoned the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) for questioning later this week over an alleged multi-million dollar tender involving convicted criminal and President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s associate Wicknell Chivayo, reported <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200029083/zec-gate-poll-body-faces-probe">NewsDay</a>.
Chalton Hwende, the chairperson of Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee, confirmed inviting ZEC to the National Assembly on Friday, July 5, adding that the meeting would be open to the public. He wrote on X:
<blockquote>
This week, as we continue with our oversight role @ZECzim will appear before the Public Accounts Committee on Friday 5 July at 10 AM at the Parliament of Zimbabwe. This meeting is open to the public and the media.
</blockquote>
A leaked recording of a conversation between Chivayo and his former business partners Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe suggests that the trio was involved in a deal with a South African company, Ren-Form CC, worth over US$40 million, for the supply of election material to ZEC ahead of the 23 August 2023 general elections.
Acting as agents on ZEC’s behalf, the three allegedly inflated invoices but later fell out over a disagreement on the sharing of the loot.
Chimombe is a ZANU PF central committee member and president of the Economic Empowerment Group which is aligned with the ruling party.
ZEC recently issued a statement refuting any involvement with Chivayo and his former associates in procuring election materials, asserting that all their procurement processes were conducted transparently.
However, leaked Treasury documents, including invoices, reveal that Ren-Form CC had engaged Betterbrands, owned by ZANU PF legislator Pedzisayi “Scott” Sakupwanya, which subsequently partnered with Chivayo and his associates.
Mpofu and Chimombe have accused Chivayo of unlawfully altering their contract with Ren-Form and Betterbrands for supplying election materials to ZEC, allegedly profiting from corruption alone in the process.
Reports are indicating that some of these electoral materials have yet to be delivered, despite payments being made by the Treasury.
Last week in the Senate, CCC Senator Sengezo Tshabangu raised concerns about why the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion settled invoices for portable toilets and translucent light boxes that were never received. Said Tshabangu:
<blockquote>
There is an allegation that ZEC, which is a product of Chapter 12 of our Constitution, engaged a South African company to deliver materials for the 2023 elections, but the company has not delivered the materials to date.
The invoice which amounts to US$9 million was authorised by the Ministry of Finance after the elections.
My question is: why did the Ministry of Finance settle the full invoice amounting to over US$9 million, which went through its banker CBZ on September 7, 2023, for the procurement of portable toilets, V11 forms and translucent light boxes that were never delivered?
</blockquote>
Senate Deputy President Mike Nyambuya advised Tshabangu to formalize the query in writing.
He also directed the question to Justice, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Deputy Minister Nobert Mazungunye, who requested additional time to thoroughly investigate and verify the allegations before responding. Said Mazungunye:
<blockquote>
As far as I am concerned, I feel that question is a specific one which might require time to go back and research more on it and maybe if we do our findings, then we can properly respond to that matter.
At the moment, there are still allegations which are not substantiated as has been said already but we may need to go and verify again.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Chimombe and Chivayo are currently held in remand prison following their arrest on charges related to defrauding the government in an $88 million Presidential Goat Pass-on scheme.
On June 24, Mpofu and Mike Chimombe, accompanied by their legal representatives, voluntarily presented themselves to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) to cooperate with investigations into the alleged ZEC tender scandal.
However, they left the ZACC offices without being interviewed. According to reports, the investigating officer, Henry Chapwanya, indicated he was occupied with another case and would schedule interviews when available.
Critics argue that the arrests of Mpofu and Chimombe concerning the goat scheme are a diversion aimed at shielding Chivayo and the high-ranking government officials allegedly implicated in the ZEC deal.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Parliament Summons ZEC Over Alleged Multi-Million Dollar Tender Scandal

CCC senator Sengezo Tshabangu has called on the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion to provide explanations regarding a payment of US$9 million made to a South African firm for the procurement of portable toilets and vests.
The payment was made long after the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) had attempted to source the items for use in the 2023 elections.
Tshabangu, who is a CCC Matabeleland North province senator, brought up the issue in the Senate last week during the Question and Answer session.
According to <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/tshabangu-takes-zec-toilet-scandal-to-senate/">ZimLive</a>, ZEC ordered 2,000 non-flushable toilets on the eve of the August 2023 elections at a cost of US$7.6 million.
The toilets, priced at an exorbitant US$3,800 per unit compared to their retail price of about US$300 in South Africa, were finally delivered in April 2024 — eight months after the election took place. Said Tshabangu:
<blockquote>
My question is, why did the Ministry of Finance settle the full invoice amounting to over US$9 million which went through their Banker CBZ on the 7th of September, 2023 for the procurement of portable toilets and translucent light boxes for V11 forms that were never delivered.
</blockquote>
In response to Tshabangu, Minister of State for Presidential Affairs Lovemore Matuke attempted to dismiss the question, stating that the allegations were unsubstantiated. Said Matuke:
<blockquote>
The allegations are not substantial. We cannot deal with information which is not substantiated. What the honourable Senator is saying has no proof.
I thought we could research more on that because there is nothing like that which happened. It never came into the public domain, those are simply allegations.
</blockquote>
However, Tshabangu, citing the criminal code and the national constitution, insisted that the allegations warranted investigation. He said:
<blockquote>
We build cases on allegations. The nature of the criminal code is that you build a case from an allegation. This is in the public domain and we are a Senate, we are talking about Chapter 12 of the Constitution.
If it is an allegation, it is an allegation; they should come to this House and respond to these allegations that we pose to them because they are there in the public domain.
We are talking about taxpayers’ money which is about US$9 million. If it is an allegation, ZEC has to respond.
The Ministry of Finance has to respond beyond any reasonable doubt that this is an allegation because it is there in the public domain.
</blockquote>
Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Deputy Minister, Robert Mazungunye, requested more time to research the allegation. Said Mazungunye:
<blockquote>
As far as I am concerned, I feel that question is a specific question which might require time to go back and research more on it and maybe if we do our findings, then we can properly respond to that matter.
At the moment, there are still allegations which are not substantiated as has been said already but we may need to go and verify.
</blockquote>
The allegations suggest potential criminal abuse of public office. It does not make sense that the Treasury would authorise payments totalling millions for items that were no longer needed, and at significantly inflated prices.
This raises questions about the decision-making processes and oversight mechanisms within the government procurement system.
The public deserves a thorough investigation into these allegations to ensure accountability and prevent the misuse of public funds in the future.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Tshabangu Demands Explanation On Millions Paid For ZEC's Portable Toilets

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) ordered 2,000 non-flushable toilets on the eve of the August 2023 elections for US$7.6 million.
The toilets were priced at US$3,800 per unit when they retail for about US$300 in South Africa. They were only delivered in April this year – eight months after the election, reported <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/zec-bought-toilets-and-vests-worth-us9-million-6-days-before-election-they-never-arrived/">ZimLive</a>.
Surprisingly, the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and lnvestment Promotion, George Guvamatanga authorised the payment on September 7, two weeks after the election had been held.
According to ZimLive, a South African company, Ren-Form CC, at the centre of the alleged corruption in ZEC’s 2023 election procurement, was paid over US$100 million, more than double the US$40 million it was previously thought to have received in several contracts.
Ren-Form CC was awarded the contracts without a public tender, in contravention of the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act.
Leaked legal documents suggest that Ren-Form CC was a vehicle used by ex-convictWicknell Chivayo and associates Mike Chimombe, Moses Mpofu and Scott Sakupwanya to siphon millions of dollars from the Treasury through inflating invoices.
Ren-Form allegedly transferred millions of United States dollars in “commission” to accounts linked to the four business associates. The money was used to buy luxury cars and fund lavish lifestyles.
Leaked voice notes that Chivayo sent to his business associates also suggest that ZEC chairperson Justice Priscilla Chigumba, Guvamatanga, CIO director-general Isaac Moyo and chief cabinet secretary Martin Rushwaya have all been paid bribes for facilitating the corrupt contracts or expediting payments. They all deny wrongdoing.
ZEC had secured most election materials by August 17, 2023, but on that day, it decided on a new order for 125,000 reflective vests and 2,000 non-flushable portable toilets to be used during the election.
At US$13.50 each, the total bill for the vests came to US$1,687,500. The toilets set cost US$7.6 million, according to invoice number 1557-2 sent to ZEC by Ren Form CC.
Justice Chigumba was listed as the contact person on the invoice.
The invoice also billed ZEC for an outstanding amount for “security paper” for US$44,511.79 and US$623,000 in “extra charges for air charter to deliver V11 Light Boxes due to late payment and to meet deadline.”
The total on the invoice came to US$9,955,011.79.
ZimLive reported that none of the items on the order had been delivered when Zimbabweans went to the polls on August 23.
ZEC did nothing to cancel the order even after the elections had been held. Treasury, on September 7, 2023, settled the full invoice by instructing its bankers CBZ to debit its account number 107-21537300105 and pay Ren-Form CC’s Standard Bank account number 002742659 the full amount of US$9,955,011.79.
However, on Friday, 21 June, issued a statement denying ever engaging Chivayo, Mpofu, and Chimombe to procure election material on its behalf, saying all its procurements were above board. It said:
<blockquote>
All materials procured for the 2023 Harmonised Elections were obtained in line with procurement regulations and there was due diligence as all tender processes were subjected to oversight.
We challenge all those alleging that the Commission has a contract with the three individuals to come forward and present the same.
We want to also publicly declare that the actual amounts used for the procurement of all the election materials were far less than the figures being mischievously circulated on social media.
All election materials procured during the 2023 Harmonised Elections were delivered on time.
The Commission has also checked with the supplier who categorically stated in writing that they did not have any contract with the same individuals for the supply of election materials during the 2023 Harmonised Elections.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) says it is investigating ZEC’s election procurement and Chivayo, Mpofu and Chimombe for alleged money laundering.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZEC Bought Overpriced Toilets And Vests Worth US$9 Million 6 Days Before 2023 Elections | Report

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has denied ever engaging Wicknell Chivayo and his erstwhile business associates to procure election material on its behalf in the run-up to the 23 August 2023 general elections.
This follows media reports of a fallout between Chivayo and his former business partners, Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, allegedly over the sharing of millions of USD fraudulently acquired from ZEC through inflating invoices.
Mpofu and Chimombe have accused Chivayo of fraudulently changing their contract with South African company Ren-Form and Better Brands to supply voting material to ZEC, and in the process, pocketing the proceeds of corruption alone.
However, Chivayo has denied the charges, saying Chimombe and Mpofu used advanced Artificial Intelligence to fabricate voice notes purportedly recorded and shared by the former, making it appear as if he self-incriminated.
In a statement issued on Friday evening, ZEC said that it never engaged Chimombe, Mpofu and Chivayo, saying all its procurements were above board. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
We have noted with great concern social media posts and rumours circulating online, that are causing public alarm and despondency and we would like to put it on record that the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has no contract nor did it procure any election material from or through individuals being mentioned in the reports.
All materials procured for the 2023 Harmonised Elections were obtained in line with procurement regulations and there was due diligence as all tender processes were subjected to oversight.
We challenge all those alleging that the Commission has a contract with the three individuals to come forward and present the same.
We want to also publicly declare that the actual amounts used for the procurement of all the election materials were far less than the figures being mischievously circulated on social media. All election materials procured during the 2023 Harmonised Elections were delivered on time.
The Commission has also checked with the supplier who categorically stated in writing that they did not have any contract with the same individuals for the supply of election materials during the 2023 Harmonised Elections.
Furthermore, there were no third parties between the Commission and all election material suppliers.
Any statements suggesting a contractual link between ZEC and these individuals for the supply of the 2023 Harmonised Elections materials are inaccurate, misleading and mischievous and therefore should be dismissed with the contempt they deserve.
The Commission assures all its stakeholders that all procurements were above board.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

We Never Engaged Chivayo For Election Material Procurement, Says ZEC

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

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

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has declared Russia’s three-day (March 15-17) presidential elections, as free, fair, and credible.
The Zimbabwe Election Observer Mission to the 2024 Presidential Elections of the Russian Federation was led by ZEC chairperson Justice Priscilla Makanyara Chigumba.
There were four presidential candidates, namely Vladislav Davankov (40) of the New People Party, the incumbent Vladimir Putin (71) who stood as an Independent candidate, Leonid Slutsky (56) of the Liberal Democratic Party, and Nikolay Kharitonov (75) of the Communist Party.
Presenting the Zimbabwe Election Observation Mission’s report on the elections in the Russian capital Moscow on Monday, March 18, Chigumba said that the Mission was satisfied with the conduct of the local media as far as reporting of elections is concerned. She added:
<blockquote>
Apart from reports by some external media organisations, there is evidence of objective reporting of the activities by the local media that was observed.
</blockquote>
Chigumba commended the Russian Central Election Commission (CEC) for the extended period of voting from a day in previous elections to three days in this election, saying it allowed voters to exercise their right to vote at their convenience.
She also said the general atmosphere was very conducive for elections, the mood was relaxed and cheerful as people were exercising their right to vote. Said Chigumba:
<blockquote>
This is a clear sign of a mature democracy in which elections are not perceived as a life-and-death activity…
The Mission also commends the CEC for managing the election efficiently and professionally. Therefore, we declare the election free, fair and credible.
</blockquote>
Putin secured a resounding victory, obtaining 88.48% of the popular vote. Officials said turnout was greater than 74% in the election.
ZEC’s decision to send a delegation to observe Russia’s presidential elections has sparked debates over integrity and credibility.
Critics question the impartiality of ZEC’s observations, given allegations of rigging in Zimbabwe’s elections.
The move has raised scepticism both domestically and internationally, as ZEC faces its credibility crisis at home.
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Zimbabwe-Election-Observer-Mission-Report-on-the-Russian-Federation-Presidential-Election-15-17-March-2024.pdf">Click this link to download the Zimbabwe Election Observer Mission Report on the Russian Federation Presidential Election 15-17 March 2024.</a>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZEC Declares Russia's Presidential Election Free, Fair And Credible

A delegation from Botswana’s Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) visited Zimbabwe from 13 to 14 February on a benchmarking mission as that country prepares to hold its general elections this year.
<a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/botswana-electoral-body-to-tap-from-zecs-expertise/">The Herald</a> reported that the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) will assist the IEC in the management of electoral activities as well as the conducting of elections.
IEC’s two-member delegation comprised Osupile Maroba, who is the chief public relations officer, and Malefho Gopolang, the policy development and voter education manager.
Speaking at a recent media conference in Harare. ZEC’s chief elections officer Utoile Silaigwana said:
<blockquote>
A two-member delegation from the Independent Electoral Commission of the Republic of Botswana has visited the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission on a benchmarking mission in preparation for the October 2024 Botswana General Elections.
The benchmarking exercise will mainly focus on the management of electoral activities and the conduct of elections…
ZEC will also illustrate publicity activities such as its radio programmes, use of social media platforms and the website as well as rebranding initiatives to the visitors.
</blockquote>
Silaigwana said the visit also served as an endorsement of Zimbabwe’s recent general elections held on 23 August 2023.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Botswana Independent Electoral Commission Officials Visit ZEC

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

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) says it is in the process of removing a total of 4 562 dead people from the voters’ roll.
In an extra-ordinary Government gazette General Notice 193 of 2024 published on 09 February 2024, ZEC Chief Elections Officer Utloile Silaigwana said the names of people appearing on the schedule will be removed from the voters’ roll unless a notice of appeal is given to ZEC within seven days. Reads the notice:
<blockquote>
It is hereby notified, in terms of section 33(4) read with Section 27(1) of the Electoral Act [Chapter 2:13], that voter registration officers have reason to believe that the persons whose names are listed in the First Schedule, and who were registered as voters for the constituencies, wards and polling stations listed therein have died.
The names of those persons will be removed from the voters’ roll unless notice of appeal is given to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission.
By means of this notice, notification is made to any voter on the First Schedule who may be alive to lodge an objection at the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission Mahachi Quantum, 1, Nelson Mandela Avenue, corner Kaguvi Street and Jason Moyo Avenue, Harare, and at the respective Commission Provincial Offices, to the inclusion of his or her name in the First Schedule using the form prescribed in the Second Schedule no later than seven (7) days from the date of publication of this notice.
</blockquote>
Identity cards are supposed to be surrendered to the authorities when a death is reported and ZEC then removes dead voters from the roll as data from the Registrar-General is made available from the lists of people who have been certified as dead.
In the past, critics have accused ZEC of facilitating vote rigging whereby some people vote using identity particulars belonging to a dead person whom they might physically resemble.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZEC Removes 4 562 Dead People From The Voters’ Roll

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has re-appointed <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Priscilla_Chigumba">Priscilla Makanyara Chigumba</a> as the Chairperson of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) for another six-year term.
The reappointment, which was made in terms of Section 238 (5) of the Constitution, is with effect from 01 February 2023.
The Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet Martin Rushwaya advised Chigumba about the reappointment in a letter on Thursday night. He wrote:
<blockquote>
I am pleased to advise that His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe Cde. E.D. Mnangagwa has, in terms of Section 238(5) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe (No. 20) Act 2013 re-appointed you as the Chairperson of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission for a period of six years with effect from 1 February 2024.
</blockquote>
The extension of Chigumba’s tenure as ZEC’s chairperson will be considered a huge blow by progressive opposition political parties and pro-democracy campaigners as she has presided over two disputed general elections.
Various international election observer missions, including the SADC Election Observer Mission (SEOM), pointed out several issues in ZEC’s conduct in the August 2023 general elections.
Among other things, ZEC was accused of gerrymandering and failing to deliver ballot papers on time, resulting in the disenfranchisement of thousands of people especially in Harare, an opposition stronghold.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Priscilla Chigumba Re-appointed ZEC Chairperson For Another Six Years

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

Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa has written to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) to have Sengezo Tshabangu barred from using his face image.
Tshabangu, a CCC activist originally from Matabeleland North Province, claims to be the party’s interim secretary general and has recalled scores of the party’s Members of Parliament and councillors, saying they ceased to be CCC members.
On Monday, 18 December, Tshabangu endorsed his candidates to run for the 03 February by-elections using CCC symbols which include Chamisa’s face.
In a letter addressed to ZEC, Chamisa through his lawyers said the use of party symbols by individuals whom he did not authorise is illegal. He wrote:
<blockquote>
We act for and on behalf of Advocate Nelson Chamisa, at whose instance we write. Kindly note our professional interest.
Our client is the president of the Citizens’ Coalition for Change political party formed on 22 January 2022.
We are advised that in June 2023, he gave consent to specific candidates from the political party he leads, to use his face image as a logo in the harmonized elections held between 23 and 24 August 2023.
Those who were granted permission to use the image of his face had their nomination papers, as more fully appear in your records, signed by the names appearing in a letter dated 15 June 2023 and received by yourselves on the same day.
A copy of the said letter is attached hereto for your case of reference.
We are advised that some individuals, other than the individuals mentioned above, have resorted to misappropriation of the image of our client’s face for purposes of misrepresenting and misleading the electorate. We advise that this is illegal.
</blockquote>
Chamisa and his supporters argue that Tshabangu is an imposter adding that the post of secretay general does not exist in the party.
Since the formation of CCC on 22 January 2022, Chamisa has reportedly fallen out with his colleagues in the MDC Alliance party.
These include Tendai Biti, Welshman Ncube, Job Sikhala, and Chalton Hwende.
Chamisa is accused of personalising CCC and exhibiting dictatorial tendencies as well as sidelining long-serving party stalwarts in favour of former student leaders who are not a threat to his position.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chamisa In Bid To Reclaim Face Picture From Tshabangu

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has cancelled the planned by-elections in Victoria Falls’ wards 9 and 11.
This comes after Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) self-proclaimed interim secretary general Sengezo Tshabangu rescinded the recall of the affected councillors.
Victoria Falls’ Ward 9 and 11 councillors Mthunzi Mpofu and Daniel Moyo respectively, were among the 52 CCC councillors that Tshabangu recalled from 15 local authorities last month claiming they had ceased being party members.
The by-elections were scheduled to be done in February 2024.
In a statement, ZEC Chief Elections Officer Utloile Silaigwana said the by-elections in Victoria Falls had been cancelled. He said:
<blockquote>
It is hereby notified that the advertised vacancies for the City of Victoria Falls wards 9 and 11 and the party list PR vacancies are no longer in existence following the recession of the recall of the incumbents by their sponsoring party.
Accordingly, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission advises that all electoral processes in relation to the said advertised by-elections have been cancelled with immediate effect.
</blockquote>
Tshabangu has recalled scores of CCC representatives in Parliament and various councils across the country claiming that they were imposed on the people in the run-up to the August 2023 elections.
Some of the recalled MPs took Tshabangu to court and the case was dismissed by the High Court.
CCC leader Nelson Chamisa and his supporters argue that Tshabangu is an imposter and is working with ZANU PF to decimate the opposition and give the ruling party a two-thirds majority in Parliament to amend the constitution.
On Thursday, the CCC Youth Task Force in Bulawayo has threatened street protests and demanded electoral reforms saying key State institutions such as the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), the judiciary system, and ZRP have been captured by ZANU PF.
Tshabangu has however denied the allegations, saying he is targetting “criminals around the president”.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Tshabangu Cancels Recall Of Victoria Falls Councillors

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

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>

ZEC Refuses To Give CCC Mabvuku-Tafara Candidate Polling Station-based Voters' Roll

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) says preparations for the 09 December 2023 by-elections are now at an advanced stage.
This comes after ZEC recently announced the list of candidates who were duly nominated for election to the National Assembly.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/by-election-preps-on-course-zec/">The Herald</a>, ZEC deputy chairperson <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Rodney_Kiwa">Rodney Kiwa</a> said the elections management body is adequately prepared for the elections. Said Kiwa:
<blockquote>
Preparations of the December 9 elections are now at an advanced stage and ZEC has now released the list preliminary polling stations. We are adequately prepared for the elections.
</blockquote>
Last week, ZEC gazetted 513 preliminary polling stations that will be used in the by-elections, with the final list of polling stations set to be published on polling day.
In all, but one of the nine constituencies, the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has nominated two candidates.
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.
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>

Preparations For By-elections At An Advanced Stage - ZEC

Parliament has notified the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) of 18 vacant seats in the National Assembly and Senate following the recent recall of the Coalition for Change (CCC) legislators by <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Sengezo_Tshabangu">Sengezo Tshabangu</a>.
On Tuesday, 07 November, Tshabangu wrote letters to Parliament recalling 13 CCC lawmakers from the National Assembly and 5 from the Senate.
The CCC’s self-proclaimed interim secretary-general said the representatives had ceased to be members of the CCC party.
Clerk of Parliament Kennedy Chokuda confirmed to <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/bulawayo-dams-drop-to-45-six-months-supply-left-lake-gwayi-shangani-scheduled-for-completion-next-year/">The Sunday News</a> on Saturday that Speaker of the National Assembly Jacob Mudenda and President of the Senate Mabel Chinomona had written to ZEC on the latest round of recalls. Said Chokuda:
<blockquote>
Yes, the letters notifying ZEC of the vacant seats were sent; it was the first thing to be done as per legislative requirements.
</blockquote>
ZEC deputy chairperson Rodney Kiwa also confirmed that ZEC had received the letters. He said:
<blockquote>
We received the letter of notification of the vacant seats on Thursday (last week) from the Speaker and President of the Senate.
We are now working on notifying the President so that he can make a proclamation to set the dates for by-elections.
As per requirement, the by-elections have to be conducted within 90 days.
</blockquote>
Parliament last week announced the recall by Tshabangu of six National Assembly legislators and seven others elected through proportional representation. The affected MPs are Admore Chivero (Chegutu West), Stephen Chatiza (Goromonzi South), Gift Siziba (Pelandaba), Tapfumaneyi Madzimbauto (Seke), Oliver Mutasa (Zvimba East), Amos Chibaya (Mkoba North), Emma Muzondiwa (Midlands proportional representative) and Machirairwa Mugidho (Masvingo proportional representative). Others are Constance Chihota (Mashonaland East proportional representative), Monica Mukwada (Manicaland proportional representative), Sekai Muungani (Midlands proportional representative), Linnet Mazingaidzo (Harare proportional representative) and Daphane Gutsa (Mashonaland East proportional representative).
Tshabangu also recalled Webster Maondera, Jameson Timba and Vongai Tome, Editor Madzamise and Ralph Magunje from the Senate.
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>

Parliament Notifies ZEC Of Recall Of 18 CCC Legislators

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has denied claims by some civil servants who worked as election officers during the 23 August 2023 Harmonised Elections that are still owed money for services rendered to the Commission.
During elections, ZEC hires officials from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education including other government agencies.
The affected civil servants spoke to <a href="https://cite.org.zw/civil-servants-claim-zec-owes-them-money-for-august-elections/">CITE</a> on condition of anonymity and claimed that ZEC only paid them 80 percent of what they were owed for their services. One of the concerned teachers said:
<blockquote>
Presiding officers received their remaining balance of US$360 when initially they were paid US$320.
We were told that only 20 percent is remaining, but to our surprise, the presiding officers received more than 20 percent so it is not clear how much we are supposed to be paid.
</blockquote>
Contacted for comment by CITE, ZEC Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Utloile Silaigwana queried why those officials who claim to have grievances chose to go to the media instead of visiting ZEC offices. Said Silaigwana:
<blockquote>
I am not aware because they did not come to me claiming they were not paid and second, we have clear channels of communication where we communicate.
How do I know these people are genuine? What if these people just want to tarnish the image of ZEC?
We normally engage people who are employed by the government and they know exactly that if they have issues they do not run to the press but inquire at our offices. Civil servants do not act like that.
We always communicate with civil servants every time and those who we hired know the amount they should be paid.
I cannot respond fully because I do not have enough information on who these people are.
By right, we have to know the station they were deployed in and their EC numbers so that we can check.
What if it’s someone from the streets who wants to tarnish ZEC’s image? How do I know?
</blockquote>
Silaigwana insisted that civil servants who were hired by ZEC for the 23 August general elections were paid for their services.
He said ZEC has official lines of communication with the Public Service Commission (PSC), adding that the same procedures used in the past will apply in hiring staff for the December 9 by-election.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZEC Denies Claims That Civil Servants Are Owed Money For August Elections

Vote counting was underway across much of Zimbabwe on Thursday, 24 August, a day after a general election.
Zimbabweans went to the polls on 23 August to elect a new president, and parliamentary and local government representatives for the next five years.
However, voting was still taking place in some parts of the country after the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) failed to deliver ballot papers to polling stations on time.
ZEC chief elections officer, Utoile Silaigwana said vote counting at polling stations which were not affected by the delays started immediately after voting closed on Wednesday evening at 7 PM. He was quoted by <a href="https://newziana.co.zw/2023/08/24/vote-counting-underway-in-zimbabwes-election/">New Ziana</a> as saying:
<blockquote>
Yes, vote counting is underway where the election was run on schedule, and where it has been completed after the delays. So it is at various stages, but is going on as we speak.
</blockquote>
Electoral officials said the areas where vote counting was underway were more than 95 percent of the electoral map.
They also said the extended voting will not affect the five-day timeframe of the announcement of the results.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his main rival, CCC leader Nelson Chamisa, on Wednesday, expressed confidence they will prevail in the presidential race.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Vote Counting Underway In Zimbabwe's General Election

Several polling stations in Harare opened just before the official closing time, while some of the centres which opened late did so well after 7 PM.
In the run-up to the polls, the Zimbabwe Electoral Authority (ZEC) announced that polling stations will be open from 7 AM to 7 PM.
However, on Wednesday morning, ZEC said that voting hours will be extended at some polling stations due to delays in the opening of polls. Below are some of the polling stations in Harare and other places that opened late:
<ul>
<li>At Warren Park 2 High School, voting started around 3 PM but then local authority ballot papers ran out.</li>
<li>Voting started around 5 PM at Mwacheta Primary School in the Mutema-Musikavanhu constituency due to a shortage of voting material, according to the ZEC presiding officer.</li>
<li>Voting in Budiriro, Ward 33, voting reportedly commenced around 6.40 PM.</li>
<li>At Glen Norah (Chitubu) Ward 28, voting was yet to start well after 7 PM.</li>
<li>At Kuwadzana 3 Primary School, voting was halted in the afternoon after ballot papers ran out. Voting resumed at 7 PM.</li>
<li>There was still no voting at Warren Park 6 Primary School at 7 PM since morning.</li>
<li>Voting started around 8 PM at Cold Comfort.</li>
<li>At Warren Park 4 polling station in Harare, voting started around 8 PM, an hour after polls were supposed to have closed.</li>
<li>At Budiriro 3 Primary where voting started at 6.40 PM: voters were told around 8.30 PM that ballot papers had run out again. They were told to wait.</li>
<li>In Nyanyadzi, suspected Forever Associate Zimbabwe (FAZ) members were reportedly interviewing voters right outside polling stations and collecting their ID numbers.</li>
</ul>
Posting on X at 7.55 PM, former Harare East MP, <a href="https://twitter.com/BitiTendai/status/1694407934506110978?s=20">Tendai Biti</a>, said there has been no voting in Ward 16 Osborne Dam, Ward 19 Honde Valley, Ward 17 Watsomba area, Ward 29 Pafiwa, and Old Murapa area.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Unavailability Of Ballot Papers Mar Zimbabwe's General Elections

The Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiZC) has criticised the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) for allegedly disregarding electoral laws by failing to avail ballot papers at some polling stations 48 hours before the election.
In a statement released at 4 PM on Wednesday, 23 August, CiZC demanded that ZEC address the nation, election observers and the world about the manner in which it has been handling the general elections.
Pindula News is publishing the statement from CiZC below:
<blockquote>
The brazen disregard for electoral laws by the [Zimbabwe Electoral Commission] has put a fresh dent into the already discredited Zim election, and we call on ZEC to do the only available dignified thing, that is, to address the nation, observers and the world.
Firstly, ZEC failed to provide the voters’ roll and other voting materials to all polling stations 48 hours before the election as stated in the Electoral Act.
In most polling stations across the country, the voters’ roll, which should be pasted outside polling stations 48 hours before election day, was only available on the early morning of voting day.
As if that was not enough, the majority of polling stations in Harare and Bulawayo failed to open at 7 AM, the time stipulated by the law, and as at 4 PM dozens of polling stations were yet to commence voting.
Thirdly, the election management body has not been transparent enough. In its statement, Zec said the delays were a result of the high number of court challenges, which obstensibly delayed the printing of ballot papers.
Here are a few examples of constituencies where voting was yet to start as at 4pm: Glen View North, Warren Park, Westlea, Harare West and Budiriro South. In constituencies like Glen View South – where voting started pm – and Kuwadzana East, ZEC didn’t provide enough ballots.
ZEC only addressed this embarrassing delay through a lukewarm press statement. The statement, issued at 10 am confirmed that at that time, only 23 percent of polling stations in Harare, 85 percent in Manicaland and 75 percent in Bulawayo, had opened.
Secondly, Zec has remained complicit in denying Zimbabweans their chance to express themselves through the ballot by issuing a bungled voters’ roll. The Coalition has carried out an extensive survey and established that the number of voters turned away is unusually high.
In some cases, like the one in Binga South Constituency over 200 voters were turned away at Sianungu pry school Polling station after it was established that their names were appearing at another polling station at Sikomena, about 60 km away.
What is not adding up is that the ballot papers for Presidential and National Assembly candidates, where there were court challenges, were available, and the local authority ballots, where there were no court challenges, remained unavailable, resulting in the delays.
In addition, in some polling stations, Zec availed fewer ballot papers for local authorities, exposing the fact that ZEC could have been ill-prepared to run this election, or is simply acting to deny citizens their right to vote.
Such a situation adds to the trust deficit that Zec is already suffering after it has made a series of controversial decisions that seemed to favour the incumbent party.
As it stands, Zec is only confirming what the Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition has stated in the run up elections; that the election management body is not independent and lacks the capacity to conduct elections and needs reform.
In light of this, we strongly call on Zec to realise that the last of its integrity is at stake, and the only source of salvation is it coming out to address the nation, acknowledge its failure, and come up with a clear plan to deal with the crisis it has created.
Failure to do that, the election management body would have indicted itself as the major impediment to free, fair and credible elections in Zimbabwe. We remain on call to all observers to take note of the events of today and make them an integral part of their reports.
We also stand in firm solidarity with like-minded organisations, like the [Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights], which has taken legal action to compel Zec to deliver complete sets of ballot papers &amp; cause that voting commences in all polling stations.
</blockquote>
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Crisis In Zimbabwe Coalition Criticises ZEC Over "Brazen Disregard For Electoral Laws"

Political parties and all candidates in the 23 August 2023 elections are not allowed to campaign after 11.59 PM on 21 August.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) said campaigning ended at the stroke of midnight on 22 August. It said:
<blockquote>
The last day of campaigns is the 21st of August 2023 at 11.59 PM.
</blockquote>
Main opposition candidate, CCC leader Nelson Chamisa held his final rally before the polls at Robert Mugabe Square in Harare on Monday.
The event was attended by officials from SADC, COMESA, and EU observer missions, diplomats, and former Mozambican President Joachim Chissano.
ZEC will open polling stations from 7 AM to 7 PM for voters to cast their ballots tomorrow, 23 August 2023.
Registered voters should carry a national identity card (ID), metal or plastic, or carry a waiting pass with an original photograph, or a valid passport, to be allowed to vote.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Election Campaigns No Longer Permitted

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) said that voters do not need to wear masks at polling stations on 23 August for them to be allowed to cast their votes.
This comes amid some social media reports claiming that voters without masks will not be allowed to vote in general elections on Wednesday.
Wearing masks was one of the protocols that were introduced at the height of the coronavirus crisis in order to curb the spread of COVID-19.
Zimbabwe officially lifted the mandatory wearing of masks and the requirement for tourists to produce COVID-19 vaccination certificates and negative PCR tests at the country’s points of entry in June this year.
The decision came after the World Health Organisation (WHO) announced that the disease was no longer a public health emergency of international concern in May.
In a statement, ZEC said it is important for those who are feeling unwell or displaying symptoms of illness to consider wearing masks. It said:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission advises all voters that there is no requirement for a voter to put on a mask when visiting a polling station.
However, those with symptoms related to COVID-19 may put on their masks for the safety of others.
Nevertheless, all voters will be sanitized before entering the polling station.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Voters Not Required To Wear Masks At Polling Stations - ZEC

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has dismissed as fake news messages circulating on social media platforms claiming that results from the 23 August elections will not be posted outside Polling stations.
In a statement, ZEC said it will post all election results outside Polling stations, Ward collation centres, and Constituency collation centres, as well as the National collation centre. ZEC said:
<blockquote>
In terms of the law, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) will post all election results outside Polling stations, Ward collation centres, Constituency collation centres, as well as the National collation centre, contrary to fake statements circulating on social media.
The public is being urged to desist from circulating fake news that may cause alarm and despondency as the country heads for the Harmonised Elections on 23 August 2023.
</blockquote>
Section 64 of the Electoral Act requires that after counting ballots, the presiding officer must display the completed v11 to candidates/agents, provide each with a copy, affix it outside the polling station and transmit a copy to the ward centre.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZEC Pledges To Post Election Results Outside Polling Stations

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has reportedly committed to providing all the information relating to the printing and distribution of ballot papers to be used in the 23 August 2023 general elections.
Posting on the social media site X, formerly known as Twitter this Thursday, Harare lawyer Thabani Mpofu said that ZEC promised to provide the information by the end of the day on 19 August. He said:
<blockquote>
ZEC has advised that it will supply all the information relating to the printing and distribution of ballot papers. It has committed to doing so by the end of the day on the 19th.
Should the information not be to the satisfaction of the applicants, the matter will be argued on the 21st.
</blockquote>
This comes after the opposition CCC made an urgent court application seeking an order to compel ZEC to disclose details relating to the printing, distribution, and serial numbers of the ballot papers for the upcoming harmonised elections.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZEC Pledges To Avail Information About Ballot Paper Printing

The opposition CCC on Wednesday, 16 August, filed an urgent court application regarding the printing of ballot papers by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC).
The applicants, CCC and the party’s secretary for elections, Ian Makone, cited ZEC, ZEC chairperson Priscilla Chigumba, and ZEC Chief Elections Officer Utloile Silaigwana as the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd respondent, respectively.
The applicants, who are being represented by Mtetwa &amp; Nyambirai legal practitioners, argue that the ballots were printed without them knowing who printed the ballot papers, how many ballots were printed, and how they were distributed.
The application reads in part:
<blockquote>
IT IS ORDERED THAT:
1. Respondents shall in terms of s52A of the Electoral Act (Chapter 2:13) immediately and at any rate no later than 3 hours of this order provide applicants with the following details:
i. All the information relating to where and by whom the ballot papers to be used in the harmonised elections to be held on the 23rd of August 2023 were printed.
ii. The total number of ballot papers that have been printed for the harmonised elections to be held on the 23rd of August 2023.
iii. The number of ballot papers that have been distributed to all polling stations and shall to that end, set out separately, the number of ballot papers distributed to each and every identified polling station including postal vote ballot papers.
2. Respondents shall in accordance with provisions of s52A of the Electoral Act (Chapter 2:13) ensure that the total number of ballot papers printed does not exceed, by more than 10%, the number of voters eligible to vote in the harmonised elections to be held on the 23rd of August 2023 and shall to that end:
i. Provide applicants with all the serial numbers by polling station, of the ballot papers to be distributed to each and every polling station.
ii. Provide applicants with the details of all postal ballot papers printed, their serial numbers as well as the manner in which they were distributed.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CCC Drags ZEC To Court Over Ballot Papers

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has declared Elisabeth Isabel Valerio a duly nominated Presidential candidate to participate in the 23 August 2023 general elections.
Valerio’s name has been included on the ballot paper following her successful appeal to have her nomination as Presidential candidate accepted after the High Court reversed ZEC’s decision to decline her nomination.
She was the only presidential candidate whose appeal against disqualification was successful.
The other aspiring presidential candidates, Saviour Kasukuwere and Linda Masarira’s appeals were rejected by the courts.
In a statement on Wednesday, ZEC chief elections officer, Utloile Silaigwana said:
<blockquote>
It is hereby notified that following an order of the Electoral Court sitting in Harare, issued on the 19th of July 2023, Ms. Elisabeth Isabel Valerio, a candidate sponsored by the United Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA) party, is hereby declared a duly nominated Presidential candidate.
Polling shall take place on Wednesday, 23 August 2023 from 7 am to 7 pm for the purpose of electing persons to the office of President.
</blockquote>
Valerio took ZEC to the Electoral Court in July over ZEC’s refusal to approve her nomination papers as a presidential candidate.
Her nomination papers were rejected despite providing bank-stamped proof of her request to initiate a ZWL transfer of funds to the ZEC bank account for the required nomination fees equivalent to US$20 000.
After successfully appealing against ZEC’s decision, Valerio became the only female Presidential candidate for next week’s presidential election.
The other candidates are President Emmerson Mnangagwa of ZANU PF, Joseph Makamba Busha of Free Zim Congress, Nelson Chamisa of CCC, Trust Chikohora of ZCPD, Blessing Kasiyamhuru of ZIPP, Professor Lovemore Madhuku of NCA, Wilbert Mubaiwa of NPC, Gwinyai Henry Muzorewa of UANC, Douglas Mwonzora of MDC and Wilson Harry Peter of DOP.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

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