7 October 2024 – In line with its mission to promote democratic free and fair electoral processes through objectively and impartially observing elections in Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) observed the Ward 15 by-election in Umzingwane District, Matabeleland South. Ward 15 is a new Ward that was formed during the 2023 delimitation process. The by-election was held following the death of Councillor Handsome Sibanda.
Legal Framework
The by-election was held under Sections 50 and 121A of the Electoral Act (Chapter 2:13) for the National Assembly and Local Authority Councillors following the passing on of the incumbent Councillor.
Nomination Court for the by-elections sat on 5 September 2024 at Umzingwane Rural District Council’s Offices. The three (3) candidates who submitted their nomination papers, successfully met the Nomination Court’s requirements. The candidates’ names were Sifelani Dube of the Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF), Sanele Ndlovu (Independent) and Victor Phiri of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).
Observation Methodology
ZESN trained and deployed five (5) observers to track polling day procedures including polling station set-up, opening, voting, counting and results announcement.
The findings and recommendations of this preliminary statement are made in reference to the Electoral Laws of Zimbabwe, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Principles and Guidelines Governing the Conduct of Democratic Elections and other regional and African election guidelines and principles. This preliminary statement is based on reports received from the accredited ZESN observers.
Pre-election Observations
ZESN observers reported that the campaign period was relatively peaceful with no incidents. The environment allowed for electoral contestants across the political divide to canvass for votes. The ZANU-PF party had the most visible campaigns which included the holding of rallies and meetings which were addressed by party leaders including members of parliament of some of the constituencies in the province.
