The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has confirmed that preparations are underway for the upcoming February 3, by-elections.
Utloile Silaigwana, the chief elections officer of ZEC, stated that since multiple candidates have successfully filed their nomination papers, the elections will proceed as scheduled next year.
Silaigwana also expressed satisfaction with the smooth process and urged politicians and party supporters to conduct peaceful campaigns, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace during this period.
“Since we have had more than one candidate successfully filing their papers we will proceed with the elections next year.
“We are happy to say we never had any challenges, everything ran smoothly,” Silaigwana told the media.
“We also urge politicians and party supporters to embark on peaceful campaigns. Everyone has a responsibility to keep the peace during this period.”
In the meantime, members of the recalled Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) legislature have filed their nomination papers for the upcoming by-elections on February 3.
The by-elections will be held to fill six vacant parliamentary seats following the recall of CCC legislators by self-imposed secretary-general, Sengezo Tshabangu.
Donaldson Mabutho, CCC Ward 9 councillor, filed nomination papers on behalf of CCC’s deputy spokesperson, Gift Ostallos Siziba, to contest for the Pelandaba seat in Bulawayo.
Tshabangu has reportedly threatened to recall CCC members who run for office under the party ticket, claiming they have been expelled from the party.
By-elections will take place in Goromonzi South, Seke, Chegutu West, Zvimba East, and Mkoba.
Among the candidates who successfully filed nomination papers in Bulawayo were Joseph Tshuma under the ZANU PF party and Moreblessing Tembo under CCC Tshabangu.
