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Rutendo Nyeve, Sunday News Reporter
THE Chiefs’ Council has expressed satisfaction with the level of political maturity exhibited by Zimbabweans as they maintained peace during the just-ended harmonised elections, describing them as one the most peaceful elections the country has witnessed.
In an interview soon after they conducted their polls to elect senator chiefs on Thursday at Ntabazinduna Chiefs’ Assembly Hall, the Council of Chiefs President, Chief Mtshane Khumalo, described the election as peaceful and commended the people of
Zimbabwe for being patient even when in some areas ballot paper distribution was delayed.
He said with 67,7 percent of the country’s population residing under various chiefs in the rural areas, isolated cases of violence that were reported in previous elections were unfortunate and impeded on progress and development.
“The peaceful environment that prevailed during this election surpasses any other election that we have held as a country. We witnessed peace pre-election and during the election day. Yes, we had reports that in other areas ballot papers arrived late but we want to commend our people for being patient, they did not engage in violence up until those ballot papers came and commenced voting peacefully. The peace that prevailed countrywide means that people gave heed to President Mnangagwa’s call for peace during the election period,” said Chief Khumalo.
Matabelend North Provincial Assembly Chairperson Chief Sainsali also weighed in saying they did not receive any cases of violence within their various chiefdoms.
“I am a chief from Binga and particularly Kariangwe Mission. The pre-election period was so peaceful, there were no cases of violence. People were campaigning peacefully and talking freely, freedom of association was respected and we are thankful for that.
“I have never seen such a peaceful election ever since I assumed my role as a chief. This is one of the best elections ever because it had been very peaceful,” said Chief Siansali.
Chief Mathuphula who was elected to the Senate further called on the people of Zimbabwe to observe peace in the post-election period in order to create a conducive environment for continued development.
“We are happy to say the pre-election period was characterised by a peaceful environment amongst our people. Most of the candidates and part of their supporters were doing door to door campaigns, posters were being put everywhere and people
were canvasing for votes without any violence. We did not get any reports of violence or any intimidation in my area in Tsholotsho District.
“We are very happy as traditional leaders that peace was observed in the rural areas and in most parts of the country. I am very thankful even to the political parties who were participating that they chose peace and listened to President Mnangagwa’s call for embracing each other in diversity,” he said.
He added urged people to maintain peace in the post-election period saying a violent-free environment was conducive for nation building
“We cannot build the country without being peaceful and united towards one cause,” said Chief Mathuphula.
The country held its 2023 harmonised general elections last Wednesday. – @nyeve14
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter