Political Reporter
The ruling ZANU PF Party is determined to reclaim the Zvimba East constituency it narrowly lost to the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) in last year's polls and is mobilizing its forces for the upcoming by-elections scheduled for February 3.
The Party is now channelling its support behind parliamentary candidate, Cde Kudakwashe Manhanzva as it seeks to regain control of the pivotal constituency.
At a mobilisation rally held in Whitecliffe yesterday, the ZANU PF Youth League boss, Cde Tinoda Machakaire, fervently urged the masses to rally behind Cde Manhanzva.
"ZANU PF is solidly behind Cde Manhanzva, and we are confident that he will romp to victory on February 3, 2024," declared Cde Machakaire, setting the tone for a determined campaign.
Cde Machakaire took the opportunity to address pertinent issues affecting the constituency, highlighting the Party's commitment to combating land barons who are unashamedly exploiting home seekers.
"President ED Mnangagwa and the Party leadership are very alert to the activities of these land barons. They will be brought to book," he asserted.
Acknowledging the efforts of President ED Mnangagwa and the Government, Cde Machakaire emphasized their commitment to enhancing the welfare of the populace, with a specific focus on addressing accommodation concerns.
"Our leader, President Mnangagwa is working day and night to ensure the welfare of the masses is improved. We are committed to addressing the needs of our people," he proclaimed.
Turning his attention to the youth, Cde Machakaire who holds influential roles in both the Party and Government, pledged unwavering dedication to prioritizing youth welfare.
"My main task in both the Party and Government is to ensure the welfare of the youth is prioritized. I will work tirelessly to achieve this goal," he declared, issuing a stern call for unity and a rejection of substance abuse among the youth.
Speaking on the same occasion, the ZANU PF candidate for the constituency, Cde Manhanzva expressed gratitude for the support he received from those he contested against during the primary elections.
"I am humbled by the unity within the Party. Let us continue to stand united as we face the opposition in the upcoming elections. I’m confident that by February 4, 2024, Zvimba East constituency will be back under the leadership of a ZANU PF legislator," he said.
The campaign rally was attended by senior Party figures, including ZANU PF Mashonaland West Chairperson Cde. Mary Mliswa, Mashonaland West Provincial Youth Chairman, Cde Tapiwa Masenda and other senior party members showcasing a united front.
The by-elections in Zvimba East were triggered by internal discord within the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), leading to interim secretary general Sengezo Tshabangu recalling Oliver Mutasa over allegations of imposition by Nelson Chamisa.
Mutasa, who had secured victory in last year's harmonised general elections by beating ZANU PF's Cde Francis Mukwangwarirwa by 189 votes, finds himself facing the youthful Cde Manhanzva.
As ZANU PF gears up for the crucial by-elections, the political landscape in Zvimba East promises to be fiercely contested, with the ruling Party vying to reclaim what it perceives as its rightful constituency.
