As the nation gears up for today’s by-elections, the High Court has affirmed its decision to bar 23 CCC party candidates from contesting, solidifying their expulsion from the beleaguered political organization. CCC party interim secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu successfully secured leave from the High Court to enforce its earlier judgment, preventing the 23 individuals from participating in the elections, despite their appeal pending in the Supreme Court.
Justice Pisirayi Kwenda, who presided over the case, reiterated the court’s stance, allowing the elections to proceed without the involvement of the expelled candidates, pending the outcome of their appeal. “After reviewing the filed documents, the application is granted,” stated Justice Kwenda.
The affected constituencies, including Seke, Goromonzi South, Pelandaba, Chegutu West, Zvimba East, and Mkoba, are all set for today’s by-elections. The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has confirmed its readiness, with the distribution of ballot papers already completed. Approximately 230,400 ballot papers have been printed for the six constituencies, along with contingencies to address any spoilage.
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ZEC’s vice chairperson Ambassador Rodney Kiwa assured the public of their preparedness, urging political parties and voters to maintain peace throughout the electoral process. “We appeal to all participating parties, individuals, and voters to uphold peace before, during, and after the polls,” emphasized Ambassador Kiwa.
Meanwhile, Zanu PF Political Commissar Cde Mike Bimha expressed confidence in the party’s readiness for the by-elections, affirming their commitment to securing victory. “We have studied the constituencies well to identify weaknesses and strengths, both in our strategies and our candidates,” stated Cde Bimha.
The barred CCC candidates, including former legislators and councillors, were expelled from the party but defied the High Court’s earlier order prohibiting them from running under the opposition party’s banner. Justice Kwenda emphasized the need for the CCC to resolve its internal disputes, cautioning against “transmitting factionalism” into the High Court’s proceedings.
Today’s by-elections mark a crucial moment for Zimbabwe’s political landscape, with the nation closely watching the outcome as various parties vie for electoral success.
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