Staff ReporterIn a recent announcement, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) revealed plans to conduct by-elections in four wards across the nation. These electoral proceedings have been triggered by the unfortunate passing of candidates in those wards prior to the harmonized elections held on August 23, 2023.
The affected wards identified by the ZEC are Kusile RDC Ward 13, Nkayi RDC Ward 11, Vungu RDC Ward 14, and Zvimba RDC Ward 23. The Chief Elections Officer of the ZEC, Utloile Silaigwana, conveyed that the Nomination Court is scheduled to convene on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, to receive nominations for these vacant wards. Should it be necessary, a potential poll is set for Saturday, November 11, 2023.
The official statement released by the ZEC read as follows:
“11 November 2023 By-elections It is hereby notified that candidates in the following Wards died before the commencement of poll on 23 August 2023, and elections were terminated in terms of section 50 of the Electoral Act.
- Kusile RDC Ward 13
- Nkayi RDC Ward 11
- Vungu RDC Ward 14
- Zvimba RDC Ward 23
It is further notified in terms of Section 121A of the Electoral Act [Chapter 2:13], that following the death of the incumbent councillor for Rural District Council Ward 24, a vacancy has arisen,
The Nomination Court for purposes of receiving nominations of candidates for election as councillors for the vacant wards shall sit on Tuesday 10 October 2023 commencing from 1000 hours to 1600 hours.
The nomination courts to receive nominations for the vacant wards shall sit at the offices of the respective local authorities.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission fixes Saturday, 11 November 2023 as the day on which a poll shall take place if it becomes necessary in terms of Section 125(4) (b) of the Electoral Act.”
The by-elections are significant as they aim to fill crucial positions at the local level, ensuring continued representation and governance in these respective wards. The Nomination Court and the potential poll date signify the procedural steps in this democratic process, highlighting the nation’s commitment to upholding electoral integrity and providing a platform for citizens’ voices to be heard.