Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa-Mashonaland West Bureau
ZANU PF is optimistic of securing victory in the Chegutu Ward 1 by-election scheduled for February 21, bolstered by positive feedback from residents regarding the ruling party’s response to long-standing water and sewer challenges.
The ward has faced significant water and sewer issues for many years, particularly affected during the cholera pandemic.
The by-election follows the death of CCC Councillor Kempton Mukombwa.
Zanu PF is mobilising extensively to win the seat, using campaign rallies and door-to-door efforts that have reportedly been effective.
After a well-attended campaign rally at Kaguvi Shopping Centre in the ward over the weekend, residents expressed their readiness to vote for Zanu PF, highlighting the progress and development they have witnessed.
Residents have already benefited from the installation of solar-powered boreholes, which have alleviated persistent water shortages.
“We struggled for a long time without water, but since these boreholes were installed, things have changed. “We are no longer afraid of waterborne diseases,” said Mr Oberd Chinogwenya.
Another resident, Ms Felistus Mahute, added: “We now have water closer to our homes; life has become much easier for families.
“We are no longer forking out money to buy water from those who have personal boreholes.”
The party’s leadership assured residents of community-centred development and improved service delivery.
ZANU PF national Political Commissar, Cde Munyaradzi Machacha, said the party had instructed the Local Government and Public Works Ministry to review the sewer reticulation system.
He said the sewer system is the council’s responsibility, claiming the CCC-led local authority has failed to find a sustainable solution. “Our President, Cde Mnangagwa, wants every Zimbabwean to live under good conditions where they are not exposed to dangers and diseases.
“People in urban areas lacked information about the party’s developmental agenda, thereby voting for opposition in local councils, which has led to deteriorating services.
“We will have engineers from the Public Works Department come to look for a temporary solution to the sewer menace. Sewer issues have to be addressed, and we will see a redesign of the entire sewer system in the ward,” said Cde Machacha.
He called for unity among party members to ensure continued development, emphasising Zanu PF’s role in providing life-changing opportunities.
“The Second Republic has laid a foundation through people-centred programmes and communities must consolidate these gains by actively participating in the development agenda.
“Unity, discipline and hard work are key to guaranteeing victory and sustainable development,” added Cde Machacha.
ZANU PF Mashonaland West Provincial Chairperson, Cde Mary Mliswa-Chikoka, said the revolutionary party is action-oriented, as demonstrated by ongoing developments in the area.
“By working together, we will accelerate the implementation of programmes and advance Vision 2030 to ensure inclusive growth and tangible benefits for communities.
“Zanu PF is an action party, as seen by developments here. As we work to regain this seat, let’s work together,” she said.
Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Cde Marian Chombo, assured the national leadership of victory, saying that success would mean comprehensive development for communities in Chegutu.
“When leadership structures are aligned from the national to the local level, development flows more efficiently.
“Devolution will deliver more effectively as resources and decision-making move closer to the people,” she said.
At least 1 900 people are registered to vote in the ward, where Zanu PF is represented by Cde Gift Konjana, while Messrs Charles Birisawu and Elisha Dausi will contest as independent candidates.
