Online Reporter
Gibson Mhaka, Zimpapers Politics Hub
AS the by-election in Insiza North Constituency, Matabeleland South Province, gathers momentum, one political reality stands unequivocally clear: the ruling Zanu-PF has maintained an unbroken winning streak in the constituency since 2018.
This consistent electoral success further solidifies Insiza North Constituency and Matabeleland South’s reputation as a Zanu-PF stronghold, a pattern reflective of unwavering support that has also seen the constituency steadfastly preserve its vote for the party in previous elections.
The by-election to elect a National Assembly representative is on tomorrow (June 14). The seat became vacant following the death of Cde Farai Taruvinga of Zanu-PF in March after a long battle with cancer.
With the election just one day away, the ruling Zanu-PF has expressed strong confidence in securing a victory, citing its visible and proven people-centred development initiatives.
Further reinforcing this confidence, Zanu-PF cadres, including high-ranking officials and local leaders, have made strong declarations regarding the party’s impending victory.
Addressing a well-attended star rally recently held at Sweet Home Village in Ward 13, National Political Commissar Cde Munyaradzi Machacha urged supporters to vote for the party’s candidate, Cde Delani Moyo, to ensure a resounding victory.
Between 2018 and 2023, Cde Moyo was the Councillor for Ward 13 in Insiza Rural District Council, representing the ruling party.
“Cde Delani Moyo is on his way to Parliament, whether those we are contesting against like it or not. We are a tried-and-tested revolutionary party that brought independence to this nation. Victory for us is certain. Zanu-PF is an invincible phenomenon, we can’t lose to any party, worse an independent candidate,” said Cde Machacha.
The event also drew an array of provincial political heavyweights, including chairperson Cde Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu (who is also the Minister of Industry and Commerce), Cde Dingumuzi Phuthi (Deputy Minister of Information, Communication and Technology), former Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Cde Abednico Ncube, Insiza South legislator Cde Spare Sithole, former Cabinet Minister Cde Andrew Langa, and businessman and losing party primary elections candidate Dr Qhubani Moyo.
Cde Moyo faces the challenge of Mr Thabani Mlotshwa of Zapu, Mr Mbongeni Moyo of the Zimbabwe National Revival Party, as well as an independent, Mr Lesley Dube.
Cde Moyo pledged to uphold and further President Mnangagwa’s development philosophy of “leaving no one and no place behind,” aimed at ensuring the fulfilment of Vision 2030 for an upper-middle-income economy.
He further stated that while he will ensure projects initiated by the late Cde Taruvinga are fully implemented, he also has his own set of projects ready to commence following his assured victory next week.
“I believe in participatory governance, where the voices of the people are heard and considered in decision-making processes.
“Together, we can build a brighter future for our community, ensuring that no one is left behind when it comes to development,” said Cde Moyo.
“I also know there are issues such as failing to access safe and clean water so I will ensure more boreholes are drilled in the constituency and that they are solarised.
“As someone who is already staying in Insiza, I believe I know most of the needs of this community.”
“Cde Taruvinga had several projects which he had started, so once I am elected, those projects must be completed because it’s a party programme.
“I also have mine that I will start, now as an MP because I have been doing a lot of projects for our people here,” said Cde Moyo.
Provincial chairperson Cde Ndlovu stated that the party was focused on surpassing its 2023 election results, viewing this as the real challenge rather than the three candidates opposing Cde Moyo.
“The challenge we have as a party is not coming from those challenging our candidate, but it is us as we want to surpass the figures we achieved in the last national elections. Those challenging Cde Moyo are in disarray, but we won’t sit on our laurels, lest they have a blackjack in their sleeves,” said Cde Ndlovu.
He said the party was leaving no stone unturned in mobilising supporters, with campaign teams strategically set up in all the villages in the ward and even beyond, as some members may have relocated from Insiza North but have not transferred.
“We are leaving no stone unturned in our campaign, we must, and we should retain this seat at all costs,” said Cde Ndlovu.
Further drumming up support for Comrade Moyo, Zanu-PF Provincial Vice-Chairperson for Matabeleland South, Comrade Albert Nguluvhe, who is also the Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, stated that the party’s objectives transcended individual aspirations.
“Zanu-PF comes first, not an individual, so please forget about whoever you were supporting in the primary election, it’s now Zanu-PF which is into battle, not Cde Delani Moyo,” said Cde Nguluvhe.
These fervent declarations by veteran Zanu-PF cadres come in the wake of the party’s formidable electoral history in the constituency. Zanu-PF has maintained an unbroken winning streak in the constituency since 2018, a testament to its deeply rooted support and consistent organisational strength.
The party faithful are resolute that this historical dominance will continue, reinforcing the narrative that the ruling party remains the undeniable political force in Insiza North Constituency.
Indeed, with the Insiza North by-election slated for tomorrow, history is poised to repeat itself.
The confidence exuded by the party’s leadership underscores their belief that this consistent performance will extend to the upcoming poll, ensuring that the impressive unbeaten run in the constituency remains intact.
The campaign was, therefore, not just about securing another victory, but also about solidifying the party’s legacy and demonstrating its enduring influence in the constituency and Matabeleland South province as a whole.
Ultimately, a resounding victory for Zanu-PF in the Insiza North by-election would serve as a powerful reaffirmation that Insiza Constituency and Matabeleland South remain a steadfast stronghold for the party.
