…new election date to be announced after 23 August

Political Reporter

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) announced yesterday that the elections in Gutu West constituency had been postponed.

 This follows the tragic death of independent candidate, Christopher Mutonho Rwodzi, who was involved in a fatal car accident last month.

Rwodzi was set to contest against ZANU PF's Cde John Paradza and the Citizens Coalition for Change's (CCC) Ephraim Murudu. His sudden demise has deeply impacted the political landscape and stirred sympathy among the constituents.

In a statement, Masvingo Provincial Elections Officer, Zex Pudurai, cited Section 50 of the Electoral Act, which states that, "should a candidate die before an election, the nomination process is declared void." The unexpected incident has therefore necessitated a change in the election schedule.

The Gutu West constituency, one of the most contested seats, is now in a state of limbo as it awaits the announcement of a new election date.

President Mnangagwa is expected to declare a new date for the Gutu West by-elections after the 23 August 2023 elections.

Despite the tragic circumstances, ZANU PF's candidate, Cde John Paradza is confident of retaining his Gutu West seat.

"I am committed to serving the people of Gutu West and am confident they will make the right choice when time to vote comes,” said Cde Paradza.

Meanwhile, ZEC is urging all political parties and their supporters to maintain peace and decorum during this difficult time. The commission stressed that all necessary measures would be undertaken to ensure that the election process is free, fair, and credible once it resumes.