Vusumuzi Dube
Sunday News Reporter
Relatives of individuals who served as election voting agents during the August harmonised elections are expressing deep concern and confusion following the alleged deaths and mysterious disappearances of their loved ones.
These incidents have raised questions about the safety of those involved in the electoral process, particularly in Bulawayo, where several agents have reportedly died under unclear circumstances after being arrested by police on dubious charges.
Among the deceased are Shadreck Ndlovu, Hlengani Sibanda, and Busani Ndlovu, all of whom were initially tasked with the responsibility of ensuring fair voting practices.
However, their families believe they have become targets of intimidation, allegedly due to suspected links to the ruling Zanu-PF party. The relatives fear that their loved ones were unfairly targeted for simply fulfilling their duties as voting agents.
Adding to the distress, Mqondisi Moyo, another voting agent, has gone missing, prompting further alarm among his family. “We are terrified,” said one relative, “especially after a group claiming to be police visited our home searching for Mqondisi. They beat us and accused us of hiding him, but we have no idea where he is.”
The harassment has left the family shaken and fearful for their safety.
The situation has taken a dire turn for Mqondisi Moyo’s family, who are now struggling financially.
Mqondisi was the primary breadwinner, operating a vehicle hire business with two vans, which he used to support his family.
With his disappearance, the family faces destitution and uncertainty about their future.
As the families seek answers and justice, they are calling on authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths and disappearances of the voting agents.
They urge the government to ensure the safety of all individuals involved in the electoral process, emphasizing that their relatives were merely fulfilling their civic duties.
Bongani Ndlovu