#ElectionsZW: ZEC invites observers for by-elections

#ElectionsZW: ZEC invites observers for by-elections

Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has invited observers and the media that want to observe the impending by-election to send applications.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa proclaimed by-elections for the 26^th of March this year.

The nomination court has been set for the 26^th of January at various centres across the country.

There are about 28 Parliamentary seats that are vacant due to recalls and the death of legislators. There are also 117 local authority wards that are also vacant for the same reasons.

In a statement, ZEC said the last date for receiving the applications to observe the by-elections is 22 March, just four days before the polling day.

‘’The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) hereby invites applications from observers and the media for accreditation to observe by-elections in respect of 28 National Assembly Constituencies as indicated in Proclamation No.1 of 2022 and 117 local authority wards to be held on the 26 March 2022.

‘’All applications must be received at ZEC head office no later than 22 March 2022. The accreditation of successful applicants shall be conducted between 8 am and 5 pm at venues to be advised commencing 18 January 2022,’’ read the ZEC notice.

Mixed feelings over elections

By-elections are coming at a time when some political parties are calling for the postponement of elections in favour of dialogue that will culminate in a government of national unity.

However, several political parties have also highlighted that they will take part and are already on the ground finalising their candidates ahead of the nomination court.

Such parties as LEAD, Freezim Congress, Kambizi Party, and National Patriotic Front have all confirmed their participation.

In an interview, Kambizi Party leader Henry Mutasa told OpenParly that he was on the ground head-hunting for candidates.

LEAD president Linda Masarira indicated that her party will try to achieve a 50/50 in terms of candidates for the by-elections. She also indicated that she is aiming for the Harare Central constituency seat.