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The ZAPU candidate for Lupane East parliamentary constituency, Mthenjwa Gumbo, says the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA) should be disbanded for allegedly failing to rehabilitate national roads, especially in the Matabeleland region.
Gumbo was speaking during a virtual debate organised by Lupane Community Parliament last week which focused on the 23 August 2023 general elections. <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local/article/200015620/disband-zinara-demands-zapu-candidate">The Southern Eye</a> quoted Gumbo as saying:
<blockquote>
The best way forward is to disband ZINARA. It will be good if communities and districts take care of their roads.
Imagine between Bulawayo and Victoria Falls, if there was a single authority taking care of that road, we would have a state-of-the-art, world-class road on our hands.
Imagine a team of 10 people taking care of the roads between Phulula Lay-bye and Lupane, there would be no potholes.
But some people somewhere are sleeping on duty because ZINARA is paying them.
If I were to be elected into Parliament, I would call for the disbandment of ZINARA and start afresh.
</blockquote>
Candidates who were invited, but did not turn up were Lupane West UZA candidate Henry Desire Moyo, ZANU PF Lupane East candidate, Pathisiwe Ncube, CCC candidate Mxolisi Sibanda and ZANU PF Lupane West candidate Mpumelelo Ndlovu.
The state of Zimbabwe’s road network is deplorable due to decades of neglect by the government.
Last month ZINARA CEO Nkosinathi Ncube apologised to the public for the dilapidated state of the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Highway.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

ZINARA Should Be Disbanded, Says ZAPU Parliamentary Candidate

The SADC Electoral Observation Mission (SEOM) to Zimbabwe will deploy its members countrywide on Friday ahead of general elections to be held on 23 August.
In a statement released on 11 August, SEOM said the SADC Secretariat team has been in the country since 10 August. It said:
<blockquote>
the SADC Secretariat team arrived in Harare on 10 August 2023 to prepare logistics for the launch of the SADC Electoral Observation Mission (SEOM) at the Rainbow Towers Hotel in Harare, and its concomitant full deployment on 18 August 2023.
The SEOM will be deployed to all ten (10) Provinces of Zimbabwe to observe the pre- and post-election 
phases and the polling day.
Before the Launch, the Head of Mission (HoM), the Republic of Zambia (the Incoming Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Affairs) for SEOM Zimbabwe shall undertake a Courtesy Call to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of the Republic of Zimbabwe.
The HoM will also conduct meetings with the leadership of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) as well as the SADC Ambassadors and High Commissioners Accredited to the Republic of Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
It has invited the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), Zimbabwe Republic Police, Attorney General, political parties, voters and citizens, traditional leaders, faith-based groups, civil society, members of the media, Diplomatic Missions/Corps, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Zimbabwe, European Union Delegation in Zimbabwe, other International Cooperating Partners, and the Heads of Delegations of International Electoral Observation Missions, to attend the Launch of SEOM Zimbabwe at the Rainbow Towers Hotel in Harare.
SEOM’s mandate is guided by the revised SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections of 2021. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The Mission will assess the conduct of the elections against a set of central principles stipulated in the revised SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections of (2021) which include, amongst full participation of the citizens in the democratic and development processes, measures to prevent political violence, intimidation and intolerance, equal opportunity for all political parties to access the State Media as well as access to information by all citizens, and acceptance of and respect for the election results by all political parties.
</blockquote>
SEOM will join various other observer groups, such as the Carter Centre and the African Union-COMESA teams, already stationed in the country’s 10 provinces.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

SADC To Deploy Election Observers To Zimbabwe On 18 August

Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) parliamentary candidate for Cowdray Park expresses unwavering confidence in the face of ZANU PF’s aspiring National Assembly candidate Mthuli Ncube’s perceived influence. Despite Ncube hosting a prominent rally with President Emmerson Mnangagwa and ZANU PF leaders at Mkhithika grounds in Cowdray Park, Bulawayo, CCC’s Pashor Raphael Sibanda remains unperturbed, asserting his stronger connection with the local populace.
Sibanda, in an interview with Southern Eye, downplayed the significance of the ZANU PF rally, emphasising that every party has the right to organise events of various scales. He said:
<blockquote>
I heard that the opposition Zanu PF hosted a huge rally. There is nothing new about it. Every party is allowed to do something big or small. They are scared of the election because they attempted to disqualify us.
It proves to people that they fear us. They have no clear idea of where to take the country. That’s why we have load-shedding and dilapidated roads. We have won this election. In 2018 it ended in the courts and this one is starting there.
The people of Cowdray Park have to choose between light and darkness, but it’s unfortunate because my brother in the opposition (Mthuli Ncube) is opposing the will of the people.
That’s why I call them the opposition. They are manipulating the works of the government to campaign. They took the project of TelOne just like they did with the project of the Ministry of Transport. While we appreciate development, we are saying we want sustainable projects.
</blockquote>
Sibanda criticised Ncube as an outsider in Cowdray Park and urged the community to choose between progress and stagnation, highlighting the alleged manipulation of government projects by ZANU PF which he called the opposition.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

CCC Candidate Undeterred By Mthuli Ncube's Influence In Cowdray Park

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has written to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education requesting that schools be closed early on 18 July 2023 citing elections scheduled for August 23. In the letter seen by Pindula News, ARTUZ cited almost 600 reports of rights violations in schools as politicians tussle for power, making schools unsafe for teachers, learners, and property. In a letter addressed to Ms. Tabela, the National Secretary General of ARTUZ, Robson Chere, highlighted two sample reports from members to illustrate the situation. In one report, learners were ordered to go home early to make way for a ZANU PF rally at Chidoma dip tank. In another report, a person was occupying school accommodation and refusing to vacate, causing problems for staff. We present the letter below:
<blockquote>
<h3>RE: Request for schools closure on 18 July 2023. </h3>
Attention Ms Tabela. 
The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe, ARTUZ wishes to advise your good office that our members have proposed an early closing date on 18 July 2023. The proposal has been necessitated by escalating political conflict ahead of the 23 August 2023. The conflict has also spilled into schools as politicians tussle for political power. Find below two sample reports from members: 
<ol>
<li>“On Tuesday 4 July all Chidoma Primary School Learners were ordered by one head Assa Moyo to go back home at exactly 0830hrs because there was a ZANU PF rally at Chidoma dip tank. The grade 7 classroom was used as the caucus room for ZANU PF officials, ECD A classroom was used as the kitchen. At the rally ZANU PF midlands vice chairman one Chiherenge ordered all school heads that no school learner must pay fees until voting day. All teachers were ordered to go to the rally. We couldn’t take videos for fear of victimisation as teachers.”</li>
<li>” Greetings, hope you are well. Sir we are having problems at our school. We have got someone residing at our school anoti iye mudhomeni and is refusing to vacate the school accommodation. Staff is having problems of accommodation. Parikuuya zvekare mumwe munhu zvekare anoti ndevee FAZ achiitisa musangano yeZANU PF pachikoro and the school is well fenced hameno sir we need your help before we are terrorised.” </li>
</ol>
The Union has received 567 reports of such worrying content from different schools across the country. We hope your good office will protect the teacher, learner and the whole school ecosystem by allowing an early Schools closure.
</blockquote>
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Zimbabwe 2023 Elections: Teachers Ask For Early School Closure On 18 July 2023

Zimbabwe has told the European Union to “observe” and not “monitor” the 23 August 2023 elections as the two parties signed an Administrative Arrangement (AA) that will see the latter deploy more than 150 election observers.
The signing of the agreement comes after the Government invited the EU to observe the upcoming elections.
Speaking after the signing of the agreement, acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Amon Murwira, <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/observe-not-monitor-elections-govt-lays-down-the-law-signs-agreement-with-eu/">said</a>:
<blockquote>
Since the advent of universal suffrage in 1980, it has been Zimbabwe’s practice to invite Foreign Governments and Organisations to observe its elections.
In line with this tradition, and the Governments Engagement and Re-Engagement Policy, the Government of Zimbabwe is, once again, inviting international observers to witness the people of Zimbabwe exercise their sovereign right to freely elect a President, Members of the Lower and Upper Houses of Parliament, and Local Government Representatives of their choice during these forthcoming Harmonized General Elections.
Among other international organisations, European Union is one of the entities invited to observe the upcoming Harmonised Elections.
An invitation was issued by the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe Cde. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa to the European Union to observe the elections from the pre-election stage right through elections to the post-election stage.
I want to say the government of Zimbabwe is inviting all entities to come and observe the harmonised elections.
The teams are however reminded that their purpose is solely to observe, not to monitor the election process.
</blockquote>
Murwira said the AA will facilitate cooperation and exchange between the Government of Zimbabwe and the European Union. He added:
<blockquote>
The EU EOM and its members will maintain strict impartiality, objectivity and independence in the conduct of their mandate.
All EU EOM observers shall respect the Code of Conduct in terms of the First Schedule of the Zimbabwe Electoral Act [Chapter 2:13).
</blockquote>
The EU will observe elections in Zimbabwe for a second time running under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government after having previously been banned by late former President Robert Mugabe.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

European Union To Deploy Election Observers For Zimbabwe's General Elections

The opposition United Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA) party has approached the High Court for redress after a list of its candidates whose papers were approved in the nomination court did not appear in the Government Gazette published on 30 June 2023.
UZA president <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Elisabeth_Valerio">Elisabeth Valerio</a> said the candidates’ papers were approved in nomination court and paid their fees but were rejected by ZEC.
Below is the list of UZA candidates whose names did not appear on ZEC’s final list of candidates for the 2023 general elections:
Elisabeth Valerio, Presidential Candidate
MANICALAND Candidates nominated for House of Assembly:
<ul>
<li>Saul Chinyamunjiko, Buhera Central</li>
<li>Collin Chirume, Buhera North</li>
<li>Somebody Muchacha, Buhera South</li>
<li>Yotam Jacob, Chipinge Central</li>
<li>Alec Kaserera, Mutare South</li>
<li>Tawanda Kadozora, Nyanga South</li>
</ul>
MIDLANDS Candidates nominated for House of Assembly:
<ul>
<li>Lovemore Magaya, Gokwe Central</li>
<li>Takwana Mavhurere, Gokwe Chireya</li>
<li>Marvelous Muyezi, Gweru Urban</li>
<li>Lyton Magwizi, Vungu</li>
</ul>
MIDLANDS Candidates nominated for House of Assembly:
<ul>
<li>Lovemore Magaya, Gokwe Central</li>
<li>Takwana Mavhurere, Gokwe Chireya</li>
<li>Marvelous Muyezi, Gweru Urban</li>
<li>Lyton Magwizi, Vungu</li>
</ul>
MASHONALAND CENTRAL Candidates nominated for House of Assembly:
<ul>
<li>Casper Muzhona, Guruve South</li>
<li>Denias Bako, Mount Darwin South</li>
</ul>
MASHONALAND WEST Candidates nominated for House of Assembly
<ul>
<li>Gift Runozivei, Chegutu West</li>
<li>Brian Kakurira, Chinhoyi</li>
<li>Chadamoyo Mapuranga, Kadoma Central</li>
<li>Batsirai Chongo, Hurungwe East</li>
<li>Canfred Munhungeyi, Makonde</li>
<li>Chamunorwa Maunga, Magunje</li>
<li>Stephen Bwanali, Muzvezve</li>
<li>Abraham Cheteni, Norton</li>
<li>Shackem Madhaka, Sanyati</li>
<li>Edwin Mudzviti, Zvimba East</li>
<li>Sidney Denga, Zvimba West</li>
</ul>
Senators 
<ul>
<li>Member Museredza</li>
<li>Norman Ngundu</li>
<li>Ennie Gwaze</li>
<li>Shiela Muzamhindo</li>
<li>Dandajena Madyavanhu</li>
</ul>
Youth Quota 
<ul>
<li>Augustine Nkomo</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Valerio Says UZA Candidates' Names Missing From ZEC Final List

ZANU PF has won 92 council seats uncontested after the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) received nominations for the Wards only from the ruling party.
On Friday, 30 June 2023, ZEC released a full list of candidates that will stand in the 23 August elections.
The report shows that ZANU PF has already won 92 council seats, up from 51 the ruling party won uncontested in 2018.
There are over 4 800 candidates competing in the 1 878 wards that are contested. This is lower than 6 796 candidates in 2018, reported <a href="https://newzwire.live/zec-nomination-report-by-the-numbers-zanu-pf-uncontested-in-92-wards-19-parties-in-the-race-women-candidate-numbers-fall/">newZWire</a>.
There are 637 candidates competing for the 210 seats in the National Assembly. In 2018, there were 1 648 candidates.
Nineteen (19) political parties took part in this election. In 2018, 55 political parties participated in the elections. There are just 10 independent candidates in the 210 seats.
One of the independent candidates, Christopher Mutonhori Rwodzi, who was contesting the Gutu West constituency, died in a car crash on Thursday night.
There are only 70 female candidates out of 637, which is 11%. In 2018, there were 237 out of 1 648 candidates for National Assembly elections or 14.4%.
In 2018, four out of the 23 presidential candidates were female. In 2023, there are no female candidates after ZEC rejected Linda Masarira and Elisabeth Valerio’s nomination papers.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF Uncontested In 92 Wards

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) on Friday, 30 June released the full list of all candidates who were successfully nominated for the 23 August 2023 general elections.
The list was published in the extraordinary Government Gazette under General Notice 1 128 of 2023. ZEC Chief Elections Officer Utoile Silaigwana said:
<blockquote>
IT is hereby notified in terms of section 106 of the Electoral Act [ Chapter 2:13], that at the close of sitting of the Nomination Court which sat on Wednesday, 21st June 2023, the candidates listed in the Schedule were duly nominated for election to the office of President.
Accordingly, polling shall take place on Wednesday 23rd August 2023, from 7.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m. for the purpose of electing a person to the office of President.
</blockquote>
There are eleven presidential candidates which are <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Saviour_Kasukuwere">Saviour Kasukuwere,</a> <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Joseph_Busha">Joseph Busha</a> (Free Zim Congress), Nelson Chamisa (CCC), Trust Chikohora (ZCPD), <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Blessing_Kasiyamhuru">Blessing Kasiyamhuru</a> (ZIPP), Lovemore Madhuku (NCA), Douglas Mwonzora (MDC), Emmerson Mnangagwa (ZANU PF), Wilbert Mubaiwa (NPC), Gwinyai Henry Muzorewa (UANC), and Harry Peter Wilson (DOP).
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Government-Gazette-Extraordinary-Vol.-64-30-06-2023-Electoral-Act-final.pdf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">To Download the full document which is in PDF format, click here.</a>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

DOWNLOAD: Full List Of Candidates For Zimbabwe 2023 General Elections

Gutu West independent candidate, Christopher Mutonhori Rwodzi has died.
<a href="https://twitter.com/TheMirrorMsv/status/1674663876791529472">The Mirror</a> reported that Rwodzi died on Thursday night after his vehicle overturned at a bridge along Chivhu-Harare Highway.
Rwodzi’s father is said to have confirmed the fatal accident which occurred as the aspiring Member of Parliament was travelling to Harare from Gutu.
A picture of Rwodzi’s car, which had overturned, has been circulating on social media.
The image was apparently captured at night, and below an inscription of Rwodzi’s full name on the car, appears “Gutu West: Independent Candidate 4 ED”.
<img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Fz2ZojjXoAQfC_I?format=jpg&amp;name=large"/>
According to <a href="https://twitter.com/zimlive/status/1674682096458014727">a report</a>, Rwodzi was the husband of Ministry of Environment, Climate, Tourism and Hospitality Industry deputy minister Barbara Rwodzi. 
He was prevented from running in the ZANU PF primaries that were held in March this year.
A <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/the-brains-behind-muga-foods/">report by The Herald over a decade ago</a>, described Colonel Christopher Mutonhori Rwodzi as a patriotic Zimbabwean who did not leave the country as others had done but had “put their country first by sticking it out”.
At the time, Rwodzi had a company in the milling industry called Mugandani Enterprises, which traded as Muga Foods.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Gutu West "Independent Candidate 4 ED" Dies In Car Crash

High Court judge Justice David Mangota on Thursday deferred to 12 July a case where a ZANU PF member is challenging <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Saviour_Kasukuwere">Saviour Kasukuwere</a>’s presidential candidature, reported <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200013391/court-defers-kasukuwere-presidential-bid-challenge">NewsDay</a>.
The ZANU PF member, Lovedale Mangwana early this week approached the High Court seeking to block Kasukuwere from contesting for the presidency on 23 August.
He argued that Kasukuwere, who is in self-imposed exile in South Africa, is not eligible to contest for the presidency having been out of the country for 18 months.
According to his draft order, Mangwana wants it declared:
<blockquote>
That the decision of the nomination court sitting at Harare on June 22, 2023, to accept the first respondent’s nomination paper and candidature (for) election to the office of President of the Republic of Zimbabwe in the elections scheduled to be conducted on August 23, 2023, is conduct which is in violation of applicant’s constitutional rights as set out in sections 56(1), 67(2)(a) and 67(3)(a) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, 2013.
That the decision of the nomination court sitting at Harare on June 22, 2023, to accept first respondent’s nomination paper and candidature for election to the office of President of the Republic of Zimbabwe in the elections scheduled to be conducted on August 23, 2023 is declared null and void and of no force and effect and hereby set aside.
That first respondent is not a candidate for election to the office of President of Zimbabwe in the elections scheduled to be conducted on August 23, 2023.
</blockquote>
Kasukuwere and the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) were cited as respondents.
The former ZANU PF Politburo member is among 11 candidates that successfully filed their nomination papers to contest the presidential elections.
The other ten candidates are <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Joseph_Busha">Joseph Busha</a> (Free Zim Congress), Nelson Chamisa (CCC), Trust Chikohora (ZCPD), <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Blessing_Kasiyamhuru">Blessing Kasiyamhuru</a> (ZIPP), Lovemore Madhuku (NCA), Douglas Mwonzora (MDC), Emmerson Mnangagwa (ZANU PF), Wilbert Mubaiwa (NPC), Gwinyai Henry Muzorewa (UANC), and Harry Peter Wilson (DOP).
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

High Court Defers Kasukuwere Presidential Candidature Challenge

Independent presidential candidate <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Saviour_Kasukuwere">Saviour Kasukuwer</a>e has announced a “technical committee” for his campaign for the 23 August 2023 elections.
Kasukuwere’s Chief of Staff is Harare lawyer Munyaradzi Bwanya and his Spokesperson is Jacqueline Sande, another lawyer, according to a statement issued by the chairman of his campaign team, <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Walter_Mzembi">Walter Mzembi</a>: Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
As the presidential campaign for Saviour Kasukuwere gathers steam, I am pleased to announce the appointment of a Technical Committee of experts that will provide the necessary administrative support in the run-up to the General Elections.
The Team compromises the following patriotic and capable Zimbabweans:
<ul>
<li>Chief of Staff: Mr. Munyaradzi Bwanya</li>
<li>Chief Election Agent &amp; Presidential Spokesperson: Ms. Jacqueline Sande</li>
<li>Chief Legal Adviser: Mr. Munyaradzi Midzi</li>
<li>Head of Foreign Relations: Mr. Lloyd Msipa</li>
<li>Head of Communications &amp; Stakeholder Management: Mr. <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Ali_Naka">Ali Naka</a></li>
</ul>
I wish to congratulate the individuals above for sharing our vision for a renewed Zimbabwe that belongs to all of us. I look forward to working closely with the Team to deliver a decisive victory on 23 August 2023.
</blockquote>
Kasukuwere, who is in self-imposed exile in South Africa, recently said that threats of arrest will not deter him from coming back home to contest for the presidency.
He was responding to State media reports that two arrest warrants issued for him have not been cancelled.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Kasukuwere Names Five-Member Technical Committee For Presidential Campaign

CCC Change Champion in Chief Nelson Chamisa has appealed to the international community, particularly the Southern African Development Community (SADC), to ensure that Zimbabwe’s upcoming elections on 23 August are free and fair.
Chamisa is in South Africa where he held a rally in Johannesburg on Saturday, 24 June, and also called on Zimbabweans in the diaspora to go back home and vote. He said, as quoted by <a href="https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/chamisa-appeals-for-free-fair-zimbabwe-elections/">SABC News</a>:
<blockquote>
Zimbabweans are peace-loving people they need the support of the entire world. They need the support of the region and the continent.
Fellow Africans support our initiatives. Support our peace effort. Support our call for change and our cause for change.
We don’t want Zimbabwe to continue to be a headache for the region and the continent.
We want Zimbabwe to be a refugee and a safe place for Africa to also come.
</blockquote>
Chamisa claimed the opposition won in the 2013 and 2018 general elections and stressed that this year CCC will not allow its “victory” to be stolen. He said:
<blockquote>
We win not because the environment is conducive. We win not because the elections are free and fair.
We win against all odds and we win because we are supported by the people of Zimbabwe.
We won in 2018. Mr. Mnangagwa did what he did to try and subvert the will of the people.
This time we are not going to allow what they did in 2018 in 2023. We are going to win again but we have to win by a big margin.
</blockquote>
The 45-year-old former ICT Minister dismissed self-exiled former Information Minister Jonathan Moyo’s claims that the opposition in Zimbabwe is weak. Chamisa said:
<blockquote>
Facts are on the ground that the opposition is the next government in Zimbabwe.
The facts are on the ground that for all by-elections we won 19 out of 20. In the council elections we had out of 149 we won 89. So where you see tatters.
I think he is mistaking ZANU PF for the alternative. ZANU PF is the opposition because indeed come the 23 of August it is the opposition.
</blockquote>
According to results announced by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) for the 2018 presidential race, President Emmerson Mnangagwa polled 50.8% of votes against Chamisa’s 44.3%.
Chamisa rejected the results alleging rigging and challenged them at the Constitutional Court seeking them nullified. 
The CounCourt upheld the results and ruled that Chamisa failed to provide evidence that the election was rigged as he had alleged.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chamisa Appeals To SADC To Ensure Credible Elections In Zimbabwe

South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC)’s secretary-general Fikile Mbalula has claimed that President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration has been implementing reforms but the West still wants CCC’s Nelson Chamisa to become Zimbabwe’s new president.
Addressing the ANC 9th Western Cape Provincial Conference on Saturday, 24 June, Mbalula said:
<blockquote>
(President) Mnangagwa brought some reforms in Zimbabwe, but they (the West) did not want those reforms because they want a man called (Nelson) Chamisa.
They want him there to be the leader; the new leader of a new Zimbabwe.
And then we say to the Americans and say to the British, give the Zimbabweans what they deserve, because you agreed in Lancaster that you will give them £40 billion for land reform and redistribution programme.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Chamisa kicked off his campaign ahead of the August 23 elections by addressing Zimbabweans based in South Africa.
Addressing a campaign rally in Johannesburg on Saturday, Chamisa pleaded with Zimbabweans in that country to support the CCC. He said:
<blockquote>
Lets us go back and mobilise, we count on you. We want you to help with resources, one rand or US$1 can make a huge difference.
Zambians did it, Malawians also did it, Kenyans also did it, they did it in DRC…if they are doing it, why can’t we also do it?
</blockquote>
In the 2018 elections, Chamisa lost to Mnangagwa by a narrow margin and he challenged the results in court alleging rigging.
However, Mnangagwa’s victory was upheld by the Constitutional Court.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

West Wants Chamisa As Zimbabwe's Next President, Says Mbalula

ZANU PF has so far won 74 local government (Council) seats across the country after opposition political parties failed to field candidates in the wards when nomination courts sat on Wednesday. ZANU PF fielded candidates in all wards.
In 2018, ZANU PF won 51 local authority seats unchallenged, so this is an increase of 23 seats in this upcoming election.
The total number of unchallenged local authority seats may increase when the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC)  gazetted the full list on Friday.
Meanwhile, United States-based CCC activist <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Freeman_Chari">Freeman Chari</a> said it is already a big achievement for CCC to be able to field candidates in over 1 900 wards. <a href="https://twitter.com/freemanchari/status/1671888190708551680">He said</a>:
<blockquote>
I am actually amazed that CCC managed to field candidates in 1917 wards. When you have spent 6 years following daily the shenanigans by ZEC and the government on this party as we have done, you realize that this on its own is an achievement.
We can cry about the 53 but you gotta give it to CCC, in spite of all the sinks and toilets thrown at them they actually delivered on their first litmus test.
Mwonzora with all the state resources, failed to field even 5% of those. I don’t have confidence in ZEC at ALL.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF Wins 74 Council Seats Before General Elections

ZANU PF on Saturday snubbed the party’s praise singer Chief Shumba Hwenje for <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Mambo_Dhuterere">Mambo Dhuterere</a> as it launched its campaign for the 23 August elections.
Hwenje is known for the song “ED Pfee”, which became an anthem at ZANU PF rallies ahead of the 2018 elections.
He recently released an album cover art and tracklist for an album set to be released ahead of the elections.
The album titled “Special Branch” carries 10 tracks- ED Chete, More Fire, Huchi, Saka Uchaita Sei, State House, Shumba Ngavapinde, Ndomuvhotera Chete, Chakabatwa Kuti Dzvii, Mai Wellie, and Mpela Mpela.
<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/thestandard/standard-style/article/200013157/zanu-pf-snubs-ed-pfee-singer-for-mambo-dhuterere">The Standard</a> reported a source within ZANU PF as saying Hwenje was informed that Mambo Dhuterere was going to be the official campaign praise singer and is set to release an album ahead of the elections. Said the source:
<blockquote>
Hwenje was ready to entertain party supporters and also praise Mnangagwa.
He is a tried and tested musician and it came as a surprise that Mambo Dhuterere was going to take Hwenje’s place after all the preparations.
</blockquote>
Mambo Dhuterere is set to release songs that praise Mnangagwa that will be used during ZANU PF’s campaign.
The musician has two yet-to-be-released songs that praise Mnangagwa.
One of them is titled “ZANU PF Kuwinner Mugariro” and another one features musician-cum politician Sandra Ndebele.
Ndebele is running for a municipal seat in Ward 20, Pelandaba-Tshabalala in Bulawayo under a ZANU PF ticket.
Pride Mkono, a political analyst and activist castigated musicians who get involved in politics for money. Said Mkono:
<blockquote>
Most of these so-called musicians are opportunists and political activists of the ruling party hiding behind art.
It is an indictment that they have been trying to reinvent themselves through politics when most of their careers are all but done.
To them, joining politics is being part of the gravy train.
They want to eat with the elites who are oppressing and stealing from the masses.
</blockquote>
Mambo Dhuterere launched his album “Nadah Pachiputukezi” in January 2023 at a ceremony that was held at the Harare International Conference Centre and graced by politicians, mainly from ZANU PF.
At the launch, the album was auctioned for US$30 000.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mambo Dhuterere Replaces ED Pfee Singer As ZANU PF Praise Singer

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) says it is finalising the compilation of submissions made by prospective candidates for Presidential, National Assembly and local authority elections.
ZEC chief elections officer <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Utoile_Silaigwana">Utloile Silaigwana</a> told <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/full-candidate-list-out-friday">The Sunday Mail</a> that the final list of successful candidates for the 23 August 2023 harmonised elections will be gazetted on Friday.
Aspiring candidates submitted their nomination papers during the sitting of the Nomination Court last Wednesday.
Silaigwana said after gazetting the final list of candidates, ZEC will then start distributing the final voters’ roll to all approved candidates.
The list of all polling stations is expected to be published two days after the unveiling of candidates.
Elections for the National Council of Chiefs will then follow a day later. Said Silaigwana:
<blockquote>
The candidates will start receiving the voters’ roll when the commission has completed compiling submissions of all the candidates from provinces and districts.
It is also important to note that candidates will be issued with voters’ rolls specific to their area of contest. There are 6 598 523 voters on the voters’ roll.
</blockquote>
Silaigwana said ZEC had so far accredited 30 local observers for the elections. He said:
<blockquote>
Please, note that the accreditation of election observers commenced on June 20.
As of June 22, 30 local observers had been accredited. No foreign observers have been accredited so far.
Applications by prospective observers should be made no later than August 19.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, ZANU PF has so far won 74 local authority seats after other political parties failed to field candidates in the wards.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZEC Says To Gazette Full Candidate List On Friday

ZANU PF members who lost in primary elections but choose to contest as independent candidates in the 23 August harmonised elections will be expelled from the party with no way back.
This was one of the resolutions made at the just-ended ZANU PF five-day induction workshop held in Gweru. The workshop was closed to the media.
<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200012748/no-second-chance-for-party-rebels-zanu-pf">NewsDay</a> quoted ZANU PF national political commissar Mike Bimha as saying losing candidates should wait for the next primaries in five years’ time. He said:
<blockquote>
So far I don’t know any candidate who will contest as an independent candidate, but if you contest as an independent candidate, you would have automatically expelled yourself from the party.
We have instances where years later those independent candidates would apply to be re-admitted to the party because it is cold out there but it will be a matter for a disciplinary hearing.
For those candidates who lost in the primary elections, they should wait for another election and President Emmerson Mnangagwa said there is no winner and there is no loser in the party and when the national chairperson (Oppah) Muchinguri addressed the matter, I was in Masvingo.
</blockquote>
An unnamed official who attended the meeting told NewsDay that Muchinguri warned that all ZANU PF members who will contest as independent candidates will have automatically expelled themselves from the party. She said:
<blockquote>
During the workshop, our national chairperson Muchinguri said all those members who want to contest as independent candidates will be expelled from the party for good.
She noted that some party members have been taking advantage (of the fact) that the party would forgive them later, but this time she said they will not tolerate party members who contest as independent candidates.
</blockquote>
ZANU PF is concerned that the independent candidates would split the vote in some constituencies and give the opposition an advantage.
In the past, ZANU PF members who contested as independents would be suspended from the party for at least five years.
Several senior ZANU PF officials lost in the primary elections held in March this year which were characterised by allegations of vote rigging and violence.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF Warns Members Who Contest Elections As Independent Candidates

Below is the full statement by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) Chief Elections Officer, Utloile Silaigwana on the application for accreditation to observe the country’s harmonised elections to be held on 23 August 2023.
<blockquote>
APPLICATION FOR ACCREDITATION TO OBSERVE THE HARMONIZED ELECTIONS
Applications are hereby invited from all persons and organisations wishing to observe the electoral processes, the conduct of polling on polling day and the counting and collation of ballots.
Applications shall be considered for accreditation from the following persons:—
(a) individuals representing foreign countries or international organisations and foreign eminent persons who have applied to be accepted as observers; and
(b) individuals representing local organisations and eminent persons from within Zimbabwe who have applied to be accepted as observers; and
(c) individuals representing bodies that exercise functions similar to those of the Commission and that have been invited by the Commission to observe an election; and
(d) individuals representing foreign countries or international organisations and foreign eminent persons who have been invited by the Minister responsible for foreign affairs to observe an election; and
(e) individuals representing local organisations and eminent persons from within Zimbabwe who have been invited by the Minister responsible for Justice and Legal Affairs to observe an election.
An application for accreditation as an observer must be made to the Chief Elections Officer by—
(a) the individual or eminent person who wishes to be accredited; or
(b) the organisation that wishes its representatives to be accredited; or
(c) the Minister responsible for Justice and Legal Affairs or the Minister responsible for Foreign Affairs, in respect of individuals whom the Minister concerned has invited to observe the referendum.
An application for accreditation made by an organisation or by the Minister must state the names and National Identity Numbers of the individuals whom the organisation or Minister wishes to have accredited.
Applications must be received at ZEC Head Office no later than 18 August 2023.
ACCREDITATION FEES
<ul>
<li>Local observers – US$10</li>
<li>Observers from the continent of Africa – US$100</li>
<li>Observers from foreign Embassies in Zimbabwe – US$300</li>
<li>Observers from any country outside Africa – US$400</li>
<li>Zimbabwean media practitioners accredited with the Zimbabwe Media Commission and working in Zimbabwe for foreign media houses – US$100</li>
<li>Zimbabwean local media practitioners accredited with the Zimbabwe Media Commission – US$10</li>
<li>Media practitioners from the continent of Africa – $100</li>
</ul>
All applications will be considered by the Commission’s Observer Accreditation Committee which Committee will then recommend to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission the persons or organisations to be approved for accreditation. All applicants will receive notification as to whether or not their applications have been successful.
For further information please contact ZEC on +263-4-759130/774095/770340; Mr Richard Ngurunga on 0716 800 768, Fax +263-4-781903/770660; rngurunga@gmail.com.
</blockquote>

ZEC Invites Observers, Media For Accreditation For Harmonised Elections

ZANU PF is not losing sleep over reports that self-exiled former Political Commissar <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Saviour_Kasukuwere">Saviour Kasukuwere</a> has joined the presidential race ahead of the 23 August harmonised elections, a party official has said.
ZANU PF director of information and publicity <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Tafadzwa_Mugwadi">Tafadzwa Mugwad</a>i told <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200012518/kasukuwere-joins-presidential-race">NewsDay</a> that the party was not concerned about a “fugitive of justice” in reference to Kasukuwere who faces arrest over a litany of charges. Said Mugwadi:
<blockquote>
ZANU PF does not lose sleep over nothing. There is no Zimbabwean constituency across the Limpopo to the extent that you are aware.
We are focused on winning the election for development and our indomitable presidential candidate H.E Cde ED Mnangagwa does not lose sleep over a barking fugitive of justice.
After all, it’s good to have ambitions, but it will be foolhardy and tomfoolery to aspire to empty an ocean using buckets.
We have already set preparations in motion for the inauguration of would-be President-elect, Cde ED Mnangagwa.
Let Tom, Dick and Harry throw their hat in the ring, but in the end, Floyd Mayweather has no defeat.
</blockquote>
However, a political analyst Rejoice Ngwenya, told NewsDay that if ZANU PF allows Kasukuwere to contest, their candidate, President Emmerson Mnangagwa will lose. Said Ngwenya:
<blockquote>
If that happens, then Mnangagwa is gone.
But I can tell you, Mnangagwa and his allies are busy doing what they can to stop Kasukuwere from contesting.
If he does, he will divide the Zanu PF vote.
But I don’t think he will even make it to the Nomination Court.
The chances are very slim. Mnangagwa won’t fold his hands and let it happen.
</blockquote>
Contacted for comment by NewsDay on Monday, 05 June, Kasukuwere said:
<blockquote>
I know people are interested to know (about the candidature), but I can assure you that you will be the first to get the official statement.
</blockquote>
Kasukuwere fled the country during the military coup in November 2017 and briefly returned home in January 2018 and was arrested on corruption charges.
The charges were later dismissed by the Harare Magistrates Court but after he left the country again.
In October 2020, the Government sought Kasukuwere’s extradition from South Africa after issuing a warrant for his arrest.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF Not Losing Sleep Over Kasukuwere Presidential Ambitions - Mugwadi

Self-exiled former Foreign Affairs Minister <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Walter_Mzembi">Walter Mzembi</a> says President Emmerson was wrong in announcing the date for the presidential election runoff/re-run, describing the move as “dumb”.
Mnangagwa proclaimed 23 August 2023 as the date for general elections and 02 October as the day for a run-off for the election of the office of the President.
Posting on Twitter, Mzembi said announcing the date for the presidential election before the general elections introduces doubt of success in the first round. <a href="https://twitter.com/waltermzembi/status/1664330968298037264">He said</a>:
<blockquote>
Pronouncing a Runoff date is a dumb move! It introduces the DOUBT of success in the 1st Round.
</blockquote>
The provision has always been there but never invoked because there was CONFIDENCE Ruling Party Presidential Candidate would make it first round.
However, self-exiled former ZANU PF Politburo member <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Jonathan_Moyo">Jonathan Moyo</a> disagreed with Mzembi’s assertion, saying this is “a standard practice in constitutional democracies”. <a href="https://twitter.com/ProfJNMoyo/status/1664350479608938496?s=20">Said Moyo</a>:
<blockquote>
Yes. The 2013 election proclamation issued by President Robert Mugabe fixed 11th September 2013 as the day of a presidential runoff election if one had been needed.
This is normal, common, and a standard practice in constitutional democracies to avoid uncertainty, confusion, or chaos in the event the result of a presidential election with multiple candidates is inconclusive and requires a runoff!
</blockquote>
Speaking <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/explainer-what-next-after-election-date-proclamation/">to State media</a> recently, National Constitutional Assembly (NCA) leader and University of Zimbabwe law lecturer, <a href="https://wiki.pindula.co.zw/Lovemore_Madhuku">Lovemore Madhuku</a> said:
<blockquote>
By law, the President is required to simultaneously announce the election date and the run-off date in case there is no candidate who gets 50 percent of the valid votes cast and above.
The top two candidates in the 23 August elections automatically qualify for the run-off and the winner is required to garner 50 percent plus one vote.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe held its first-ever presidential run-off also known as a re-run in 2008.
However, Movement for Democratic Change leader Morgan Tsvangirai withdrew from the race citing violence against his supporters and ZANU PF’s Robert Mugabe was declared the winner after the election.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pronouncing A Runoff Date "Dumb", Says Mzembi, But Madhuku, Moyo Disagree

President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Wednesday proclaimed 23 August 2023 as the date for the harmonised general election [presidential, parliamentary and local authority].
Below are some important things to know about the upcoming elections:
Who is eligible to vote?
Registered voters who were on the Voters’ Roll when the election date proclamation was done and those who register as voters not later than two days after the proclamation are eligible to vote in this year’s election.
When will ballot papers be printed?
The Zimbabwe Election Commission (ZEC) will print ballot papers after the sitting of the nomination Court on 21 June.
How much must candidates pay as Nomination Fees?
According to Statutory Instrument 144 of 2022, the presidential candidate nomination fee is US$20 000, up from US$1 000 in this year’s election.
A Member of Parliament and local authority candidate will pay US$1 000 up from US$50.
A proportional representation member will pay US$200, up from US$100 to participate in this year’s election.
The date for the run-off/re-run
President Mnangagwa set 02 October 2023 as the date for a run-off for the election of the office of the President if such a poll becomes necessary in terms of Section 38(1)(a)(iii) of the Electoral Act.
A presidential election run-off is held if no candidate gets 50 percent of the valid votes cast and above.
The top two candidates in the elections automatically qualify for the run-off and the winner is required to garner 50 percent plus one vote.
Zimbabwe held its first-ever presidential run-off also known as a re-run in 2008.
However, Movement for Democratic Change leader Morgan Tsvangirai withdrew from the race citing violence against its supporters and ZANU PF’s Robert Mugabe was declared the winner after the election.
What now for Electoral Amendment Bill before Parliament?
ZEC chief elections officer Utloile Silaigwana was recently quoted as saying that said once the President proclaims the election date, the commission will run an election with existing law.
When will parliament be dissolved?
Parliament will be dissolved at midnight on the day before the first polling day in the next general election called in terms of section 144 of the constitution.
Who qualifies to be an election candidate?
A presidential candidate should be a Zimbabwean citizen by birth or descent, should be at least 40 years of age, ordinarily resident in Zimbabwe and a registered voter.
A person who has already held office as President under this Constitution for two terms, whether continuous or not, is disqualified for election as President or Vice-President.
A person is qualified for election as a Member of the National Assembly if he or she is registered as a voter and is at least twenty-one years of age. A Senate candidate should be at least forty years of age.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

2023 Elections: Here Is What Happens After Election Date Proclamation

Self-exiled former ZANU PF Politburo member Jonathan Moyo says the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) does not have the capacity to run this year’s general elections.
On Wednesday, President Emmerson Mnangagwa proclaimed 23 August as the date for the country’s harmonised elections.
Responding to the proclamation, Moyo said the divisions within ZEC around the delimitation exercise indicate that it is not ready to smoothly conduct the elections. Moyo wrote:
<blockquote>
ZEC INCAPACITATED TO COMPILE A CREDIBLE VOTERS ROLL
Today’s gazetting of the election proclamation fixing 23 August 2023 as the date for the harmonised general election [presidential, parliamentary and local authority] means this might turn out to be a general election like no other before.
The election proclamation has come not only when journalists at the country’s major sections of the mainstream media – on whom the public depends for information on elections – have declared themselves to be incapacitated, but it has also come when @ZECzim – the constitutional body responsible for conducting elections – is itself clearly incapacitated.
It is common cause that the disputed delimitation exercise sharply divided and incapacitated ZEC as seven Commissioners – not a small number – went rogue and disassociated themselves from the delimitation exercise and report, with some even challenging it in court.
Since then, there’s no evidence that the ZEC divisions have disappeared or that they have been satisfactorily if at all addressed.
Also, there is no evidence that the Commission is functioning properly or effectively, let alone efficiently, as a corporate entity which is a Chapter 12 constitutional institution.
ZEC’s functions and communications have become palpably dysfunctional, and are clearly not operating the way they should or they used to.
Meanwhile, ZEC’s Chief Elections Officer, Mr Utoile Silaigwana, has hardly been at work, reportedly incapacitated by health issues which have seen him on repeated sick leave over quite some time.
The conspicuous trappings of incapacitation at ZEC do not bode well for the proper administration of the electoral process in terms of the law.
On 27 May 2023, the day when the ongoing and rather controversial voter registration inspection started, ZEC issued the following pregnant statement that should concern anyone who would like to see a free, fair and credible harmonised general election on 23 August:
“Owing to logistical and other unforeseen challenges, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission would like to inform members of the public that some voters’ roll inspection centres may start operating much later than the anticipated time on 27 May 2023.
The Commission may consider extending this exercise scheduled to end on 31 May 2023 by a day in affected areas”.
In the end, most areas were affected to warrant an extension in all areas to tomorrow, 1 June 2023.
While ZEC did not indicate what “logistical and unforeseen challenges” it was having – and while the incapacitated media did not probe this to unravel it, what is self-evident is that ZEC is incapacitated but – unlike the journalists at the two major media houses – has not declared its incapacitation.
Against this backdrop, and judging by the way it has by its own admission struggled with “logistical and unforeseen challenges” to enable a smooth inspection of the provisional voters’ roll, @ZECzim does not appear to be ready to smoothly conduct the forthcoming general election.
In fact, ZEC is not ready.
Yet the first thing that must be in order before any general election is the institutional, organisational and technical readiness of the electoral body. The capacity of the electoral body must not be in question.
And the first thing that the electoral body must have ready ahead of a general election is the voters’ roll. In the study of electoral politics and practice, an election is a voter roll.
ZEC extended to tomorrow 1 June 2023, the ongoing rather short and problematic inspection of the provisional voters’ roll which started on 27 May 2023 and which was meant to end today, for inspecting by voters who were registered by 28 April 2023, and who were given a very short inspection notice on 23 May 2023.
The fact that, following today’s election proclamation, the cut-off date for voter registration for the forthcoming election is 2 June 2023 – only a day after the end of the ongoing voter inspection of the provisional voters’ roll, means that ZEC’s preparation and compilation of the final voters’ roll will be based on a poorly audited provisional voters roll.
This is bad news.
It is safe to say ZEC’s compilation of the final voters’ roll for the 23 August 2023 harmonised general election will be based on a provisional voters roll that has not been properly audited or even one which does not exist.
This would not be right nor fair in terms of natural justice, nor would it be constitutional in terms of section 239(a) of the Constitution which requires ZEC to “ensure that …elections…are conducted efficiently, freely, fairly, transparently and in accordance with law”.
There can be no free, fair, transparent election conducted in accordance with the law without a credible voters roll that has been audited [meaning sufficiently inspected] by voters in terms of section 21 of the Electoral Act.
When voters audit the voters roll by inspection, invariably, anomalies are identified and those anomalies must be corrected transparently, meaning voters should be able to confirm – before the general election – that ZEC has corrected the anomalies they identified.
Given that today’s election proclamation has been gazetted before the conclusion of a manifestly problematic – some will say chaotic – ongoing inspection of the provisional voters roll; and given that the cut-off date for voters to register to be able to vote on 23 August 2023 is 2 June 2023; and further given that the Nomination Courts for the three elections will sit on 21 June 2023, ZEC should do right by voters and provide at least a five-day proper inspection of the final voters roll after 2 June 2023 and well before 21 June 2023.
If ZEC does not come up with a window of at least five days for voters to inspect the final voters roll after 2 June 2023, it can forget about having rational and fair-minded people judging the 2023 harmonised general election as free, fair and credible; such an election will not be credible abi nitio.
The credibility of an election starts with a credible voters’ roll, and a voters’ roll cannot be credible if it has not been freely, fairly and transparently audited by voters themselves over a reasonable time before an election.
This is why students of electoral politics and practice say an election is a voters’ roll. It is pointless to conduct an election without a credible voters’ roll.
Consequently, ZEC will do well to recover from its worrying incapacitation and ensure that it does not miss or squander the small window of opportunity it still has to compile a credible final voters roll and enable voters who are registered by 2 June 2023 to inspect that voters roll in terms of the law, to win the goodwill and confidence of the electorate, ahead of 23 August.
A credible voters’ roll properly audited by voters themselves is the holy grail of a free and fair election in a constitutional democracy!
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZEC Has No Capacity To Conduct Credible Elections - Jonathan Moyo

President Emmerson Mnangagwa is expected to proclaim the election date in due course, a senior Government official has said.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/election-proclamation-imminent/">The Herald</a> last night, Presidential spokesperson George Charamba was noncommittal about to exactly when Mnangagwa will proclaim the election date. Charamba said:
<blockquote>
The election proclamation is going to be announced in due course. That is all I can say at the moment.
</blockquote>
On Saturday, Mnangagwa was quoted by State media as saying he will announce the date for the General Elections on Monday.
The <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/president-to-announce-election-date-this-sunday/">Chronicle</a> initially reported that Mnangagwa would proclaim the election date on Sunday, but later reported that the proclamation will be done on Monday.
Speaking in Binga on Saturday at the official commissioning of classroom blocks at Mabobolo Secondary School under Chief Pashu, <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/president-to-announce-election-date-on-monday/">Mnangagwa said</a>:
<blockquote>
I will be announcing the election date the day after tomorrow (Monday).
When elections are conducted every person in Binga should safeguard our heritage by voting.
If we do not vote properly people without Zimbabwe at heart will take over. We must protect it and preserve our heritage.
</blockquote>
Speaking during a recent interview with <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/interview-chamisa-slams-mnangagwas-silence-on-elections-date-proclamation/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa said it is unacceptable that Mnangagwa is the only one who knows the date. Said Chamisa:
<blockquote>
It is unfair for one player to also be a referee, a match commissioner and to be the regulatory authority.
It is wrong especially when everyone is put in suspense thereby making planning almost impossible.
National affairs and people’s lives cannot be run on an ad hoc basis upon guesswork and conjecture.
All stakeholders have to plan ahead of time. Right now Kenyan citizens know the exact date when the elections due in 2027 are going to be held.
That is good governance. Not this unilateralism where a date is used as an unfair advantage over competitors.
Others may not be able to fully plan. A date cannot be determined by one person. The fate of a nation can’t fit in one’s pocket.
Mr. Mnangagwa is saying he is the only one who knows the date. This is unacceptable.
</blockquote>
Last month Mnangagwa revealed that he will announce the election date towards the end of May.
Section 38 of the Electoral Act empowers the President to proclaim the date for harmonised elections after consultation with the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC).
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mnangagwa To Proclaim Election Date In Due Course - Charamba

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said he will announce the date for the General Elections on Monday, reported the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/president-to-announce-election-date-on-monday/">Chronicle</a>.
Speaking in Binga this Saturday at the official commissioning of classroom blocks at Mabobolo Secondary School under Chief Pashu, Mnangagwa said:
<blockquote>
I will be announcing the election date the day after tomorrow (Monday).
When elections are conducted every person in Binga should safeguard our heritage by voting.
If we do not vote properly people without Zimbabwe at heart will take over. We must protect it and preserve our heritage.
</blockquote>
Last month Mnangagwa revealed that he will announce the election date towards the end of May.
Section 38 of the Electoral Act empowers the President to proclaim the date for harmonised elections after consultation with the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC).
Correction: An <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/president-to-announce-election-date-this-sunday/">earlier report</a> indicated that Mnangagwa said he will announce the election date tomorrow (Sunday) and this has been updated.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

UPDATED: Mnangagwa Says He Will Announce Election Date On Monday

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said he will announce the date for the General Elections on Sunday, reported the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/president-to-announce-election-date-this-sunday/">Chronicle</a>.
Speaking in Binga today at the official commissioning of classroom blocks at Mabobolo Secondary School under Chief Pashu, Mnangagwa said:
<blockquote>
Tomorrow (Sunday) I will be announcing election day.
When elections are conducted every person in Binga should safeguard our heritage by voting.
If we do not vote properly people without Zimbabwe at heart will take over. We must protect it and preserve our heritage.
</blockquote>
Last month Mnangagwa revealed that he will announce the election date towards the end of May.
Section 38 of the Electoral Act empowers the President to proclaim the date for harmonised elections after consultation with the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC).
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mnangagwa Says He Will Announce Election Date On Sunday

Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa has criticised President Emmerson Mnangagwa for allegedly delaying to proclaim the date of the elections saying this makes it difficult for players to prepare for the polls.
Section 38 of the Electoral Act empowers the President to proclaim the date for general elections after consultation with the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC).
The elections should be held in August this year but Mnangagwa is yet to proclaim the date for the harmonised elections.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/interview-chamisa-slams-mnangagwas-silence-on-elections-date-proclamation/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, Chamisa it is unacceptable that Mnangagwa is the only one who knows the date. Said Chamisa:
<blockquote>
It is unfair for one player to also be a referee, a match commissioner and to be the regulatory authority.
It is wrong especially when everyone is put in suspense thereby making planning almost impossible.
National affairs and people’s lives cannot be run on an ad hoc basis upon guesswork and conjecture.
All stakeholders have to plan ahead of time. Right now Kenyan citizens know the exact date when the elections due in 2027 are going to be held.
That is good governance. Not this unilateralism where a date is used as an unfair advantage over competitors.
Others may not be able to fully plan. A date cannot be determined by one person. The fate of a nation can’t fit in one’s pocket.
Mr. Mnangagwa is saying he is the only one who knows the date. This is unacceptable.
</blockquote>
Last month Mnangagwa revealed that he will announce the election date towards the end of May but is yet to honour his promise. Added Chamisa:
<blockquote>
Everyone is in the dark, except for Mr. Mnangagwa and possibly his colleagues in ZANU PF.
That is not a desirable framework. It is not conducive to the holding of a proper and credible process.
That must definitely change and the law must change on that. There is a need to make sure that there is greater predictability. More certainty in terms of these criticals.
The dates are supposed to be by virtue of the Constitution and the predictability of the date is what we are emphasising.
We need to make sure that we deal with these issues as an immediate national issue and an issue of consideration.
</blockquote>
An American credit rating agency, Fitch Solutions, recently predicted that Mnangagwa and the ruling ZANU PF will likely win in general elections.
In its new report, Fitch Solutions said the opposition CCC led by Nelson Chamisa will win key votes in low-income urban areas but ZANU PF will win the overall vote due to “overarching resources” and the advantage of incumbency.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mnangagwa's Silence On Elections Date Proclamation Unacceptable - Chamisa

Fitch Solutions, a global advisory, has predicted that President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the ruling ZANU PF will likely win in general elections scheduled for August this year.
In its new report, Fitch Solutions said the opposition CCC led by Nelson Chamisa will win key votes in low-income urban areas but ZANU PF will win the overall vote due to “overarching resources” and the advantage of incumbency. The report said:
<blockquote>
At Fitch Solutions, we believe that the incumbent President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his ZANU PF party will win the upcoming general elections due to be held by August 2023.
ZANU PF’s overarching resources and influence compared to the opposition CCC, headed by Chamisa, will preserve its support in rural strongholds and win key votes in low-income urban areas.
Central to our belief that ZANU PF will win the elections is the party’s far greater political and economic resources it has to sway the vote in its favour.
</blockquote>
The report also warns of possible unrest in the country in the run-up to and aftermath of the elections. It said:
<blockquote>
Overall, reform momentum under another Mnangagwa presidency will remain weak and will constrain the country’s medium-term macroeconomic outlook.
We see a rising likelihood of unrest in the run-up to and aftermath of the elections, prompting us to revise down the short-term political risk index score from 38.8 to 37.9, below the Sub-Saharan Africa average of 50.1.
</blockquote>
In the aftermath of the 2018 general elections, security forces used live rounds of ammunition to disperse protestors in central Harare.
Six people were shot dead, some were shot in the back while fleeing the mayhem, and several others were injured.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) declared Mnangagwa the winner, but Chamisa contested the results of the presidential poll in court.
However, the Constitutional Court upheld Mnangagwa’s victory, saying Chamisa failed to provide evidence that the results were rigged.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

American Credit Rating Agency Predicts Mnangagwa, ZANU PF Victory In 2023 Elections

Swedish Ambassador to Zimbabwe Asa Pehrson has said the political environment before elections determines whether the actual election is free and fair or not.
Speaking during the Child Protection Fund signing ceremony last week, Pehrson said fundamental human freedoms should be observed to guarantee credible elections. <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/thestandard/news/article/200011851/sweden-pushes-for-electoral-reforms">The Standard</a> quoted her as saying:
<blockquote>
Elections are more than just Election Day; it’s media freedom, the right to assembly and voter registration.
There is one side of elections that is very technical and allows you in a democracy as a voter to register and place your vote without intimidation before, during and after the election.
There is a part where after elections you need to continue the open debate and you will have the results, and the government or whatever party whatever the consolation would be, will need to be given the right to govern if the elections were held in a fair and credible manner.
</blockquote>
Opposition parties and independent election watchdogs say the current political environment is not conducive to holding free and fair elections.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has been accused of moving thousands of voters from their constituencies without their knowledge and it has steadfastly refused to release the voters’ roll for an audit by opposition political parties.
Recently, the Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiCZ) noted escalating incidents of politically-motivated violence.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Elections Are More Than Just Election Day - Swedish Ambassador

Award-winning journalist Hopewell Chin’ono has warned Zimbabwe’s opposition political parties that they are running out of time to prepare for the 2023 general elections.
Chin’ono, a government critic who was arrested for exposing high-level corruption in 2020, also warned the opposition that the election has already been rigged through the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission’s refusal to release the voters’ roll.
He made the remarks after President Emmerson Mnangagwa said that the 2023 general elections will be held in August. Chin’ono tweeted:
<blockquote>
President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe announced that Zimbabwe’s elections will be held in August.
The constitution says it must be held before 26 August.
It means the opposition has only 2 months to have its candidates ready, have its polling agents ready and have its finances for the election campaign ready.
ZANU PF doesn’t have this problem because it illegally uses State resources.
There is one problem for the opposition, there is NO voters’ roll. An election is a voters’ roll, polling agents and resources.
Without a Voters Roll, the election is already rigged. However, the opposition should participate regardless.
As Professor Steven Levitsky says in his book, How Democracies Die, opposition parties should always compete regardless of the electoral conditions.
If they don’t, dictatorships will always have bogus opposition leaders like Douglas Mwonzora to use in order to create a false image of opposition politics.
The trick is in getting as many people registered to vote to make rigging harder.
So the election is in August, the quicker the opposition moves to get its act together, the better!
The biggest tragedy and nightmare is ZANUPF coming back with a two-thirds majority, Zimbabwe would be in a huge mess if that were to happen!
Everyone has a role in making sure that it doesn’t happen! Your vote matters, use it!
</blockquote>
Addressing thousands of ZANU PF supporters on Friday who had come to witness the commissioning of the Rwenya Bridge which was swept away in 2013, Mnangagwa said elections will be held in August but did not reveal the exact date.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"Without A Voters Roll, The Election Is Already Rigged"

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said that the 2023 general elections will be held in August.
He said this while addressing thousands of ZANU PF supporters who had come to witness the commissioning of the Rwenya Bridge which was swept away in 2013. <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/elections-set-for-august/">The Herald</a> quoted him as saying:
<blockquote>
Let’s keep our heritage by voting for ZANU PF. Elections will be held in August, I am releasing a little bit of information.
</blockquote>
Last month President Mnangagwa said he will announce the election date before the end of May.
Addressing the same gathering, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga said the 2023 harmonised elections will take place as scheduled. He said:
<blockquote>
This election is coming. It is not reversible. We ought to hold these elections in a peaceful environment.
This is our country. We do not know of any other country other than Zimbabwe.
Elections come and go but our relations will remain so we do not want political violence.
My message is I will vote for President Mnangagwa. Who are you going to vote for? 
We should vote for President Mnangagwa and ZANU PF MPs and councillors.
Here in Mudzi, you should vote for Cde Jonathan Samkange as our Member of Parliament in Mudzi South.
</blockquote>
The general elections must be held between 26 July and 26 August, to comply with Constitutional regulations that the election must come not more than 30 days after the expiry period of the current Parliament.
Current laws also stipulate that a proclamation can only be made 44-88 days before the election date.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

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