Online Reporter
Remember Deketeke
THE Zimbabwe Electoral Commission has allocated ZiG13 million for by‑elections taking place today in four wards across the country, with all election materials and personnel deployed ahead of polling.
ZEC chief elections officer Mr Simbarashe Tongayi said the commission had completed logistical preparations, including the printing of ballot papers and deployment of staff.
“Polling will take place on 21 February 2026 in Ward 7 and Ward 12 of Chikomba Rural District Council, Ward 1 of Chegutu Municipality and Ward 13 of Matobo Rural District Council,” said Mr Tongayi during a press conference in Harare yesterday.
“All material and human resources are in place for the conduct of the by‑elections scheduled for 21 February 2026.”
Mr Tongayi said a total of 10 200 ballot papers had been printed for the four wards against a voter population of 9 692, representing a 5.24 percent contingency to cater for spoilage and other administrative requirements.
The vacancies arose following the deaths of councillors in Ward 7 (Chikomba RDC), Ward 13 (Matobo RDC) and Ward 1 (Chegutu Municipality).
Ward 12 of Chikomba RDC became vacant after the incumbent was incarcerated for more than six months without the option of a fine.
Although Ward 14 of Beitbridge Rural District Council also fell vacant, Mr Tongayi said no poll would be held there after only one candidate was nominated.
“There is no by‑election in Ward 14 of Beitbridge RDC because there was only one nomination,” he said.
In Ward 7 of Chikomba RDC, voters will choose between Ms Fortunate Chakwanda of Zanu PF and independent candidate Mr Ignatious Maya.
Ward 12 of Chikomba RDC has three candidates: Ms Fadzai Chimanikire (Independent), Mr Hopeday Madzura (Independent) and Mr Pardon Kunakira Mudzimu of Zanu PF.
In Ward 1 of Chegutu Municipality, independent candidate Mr Tonderai Elisha Dausi will contest against Mr Gift Machoka Konjana of Zanu PF.
Ward 13 of Matobo RDC also has three candidates: Ms Ntombizodwa Dube (Independent), Ms Precious Mabaleka of Zanu PF and Mr Professor Mpande of Zapu.
