All set for today’s by-elections: ZEC

Remember Deketeke-Herald Reporter

Over 9 000 voters are expected to cast their ballots in today’s by-elections for Ward 10 Chikomba RDC, Ward 4 Chiredzi RDC and Ward 6 Marondera RDC, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) said yesterday.

Addressing the media yesterday, ZEC Deputy Chairperson, Ambassador Rodney Kiwa, said they are “fully prepared to conduct free, fair, and credible elections”.

“All material and human resources are in place to ensure a smooth process,” he said.

The by-elections follow vacancies caused by the death of incumbents in Chikomba and Marondera, while the Chiredzi seat became vacant after a recall by the party, ZANU PF.

In Ward 10 Chikomba RDC, voters will choose between independent candidate Mr Tawanda Muchenje and Cde ZANU PF’s Tafadzwa Mukandi. Ward 4 Chiredzi RDC pits independent Mr Joseph Macheke against ZANU PF’s Cde Austin Phikelele, while Ward 6 Marondera RDC features independent Mr Richard Ziyanga and ZANU PF’s Cde Fiona Tongawashe.

A total of 4 552 voters are registered in Chiredzi, 2 357 in Chikomba and 3 022 in Marondera.

ZEC has printed extra ballots to account for contingencies.

“We have allocated a 6 percent to 7,5 6 percent surplus to ensure no voter is turned away due to ballot shortages,” said Ambassador Kiwa.

Meanwhile, ZEC announced that Zanu PF has taken an early lead ahead in the by-elections after claiming three local authority seats uncontested.

The ruling party secured victories in Gutu RDC Ward 10, Gutu RDC Ward 14 and Mazowe RDC Ward 19.

The winning candidates are Cde Fibian Muzire for Gutu RDC Ward 10, Cde Katinos Mudadi for Gutu RDC Ward 14 and Cde Tichaona Muskwe for Mazowe RDC Ward 19.

With a budget of ZWG$9 million and trained personnel in place, ZEC assured the public of a seamless election.