Online Reporter
Luthando Mapepa
Correspondent
ALL is set for the Chipinge Rural District Council Ward 5 by-election, in which four candidates will battle it out to represent the orphaned ward.
The candidates vying for the post include Cde Humbe Singatini, representing ZANU PF, Mr Mukachani Tinotenda of the National Constitutional Assembly (NCA), led by Professor Lovemore Madhuku, Mr Salani Godfrey (Independent), and Mr Zvigumi Ndinani of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).
The ward became vacant following the death of its long-serving representative, Alderman Phibeon Machwaire, in April this year.
The late Alderman Machwaire had served Chipinge RDC Ward 5, under Mutema-Musikavanhu Constituency, since 2001.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) provincial deputy elections officer, Mr Killian Gambe said preparations are at an advanced stage for the Chipinge RDC Ward 5 by-election, scheduled for Saturday, 14 June 2025, following the death of the then sitting councillor, Alderman Machuwaire.
“We began voter education on June 6, which ended on June 10. Our voter educators went around the ward informing villagers about the correct documentation required for voting and encouraging them to verify their registration details,” said Mr Gambe.
He said the training of polling officers took place on June 8 and 9, while additional training sessions for polling officers, police officers and election agents began on June 11 and 12 (today).
“These training sessions are taking place at the seven polling centres within Ward 5, ensuring that everyone involved in the electoral process is well-prepared. In accordance with ZEC procedures, we displayed the voters’ rolls at polling stations two days prior to the election, enabling voters to verify their registration details and ensure they know where to cast their vote on the polling day. We urge all registered voters to visit their respective polling stations to check their names and confirm where they should vote, which helps avoid confusion on election day,” emphasised Mr Gambe.
All polling stations will open at 7am and close at 7pm.
Mr Gambe said preparations are “well on course,” and all stakeholders are working diligently to ensure a credible and peaceful electoral process.
Zanu PF provincial chairman, Cde Tawanda Mukodza expressed optimism about the party’s chances in the Chipinge RDC Ward 5 by-election. After addressing rallies at all seven polling stations, Cde Mukodza urged supporters to remain vigilant, peaceful and hopeful.
“As we head to the polls, I urge all our supporters to remain vigilant, peaceful and hopeful, for we are on the cusp of a great victory, one that will propel our community towards a brighter future,” he said.
