Political Reporter
A disturbing incident unfolded today at Chikurubi polling station as Patrick Cheza, husband to Harare East independent candidate Ropafadzo Cynthia Cheza, caused significant disruption.
In an aggressive attempt to influence the voting process, Cheza actively tried to prevent several individuals from voting, accusing them of being ZANU PF members, thereby sparking a fierce confrontation.
Cheza, unyielding in his approach, loudly proclaimed to bystanders, "This line is filled with known ZANU PF members who should not be here corrupting our election!"
His vehement accusations did not wane, even when pressed by journalists about how he could definitively identify these individuals or justify his actions.
Cheza's evasive response highlighted his fervour.
"There is no need for explanations. The integrity of this election is at stake, and we will reject any results tainted by their involvement,” said Cheza.
The chaos didn't end with the accused, as one Lydia Chenjerai, a voter who found herself caught in Cheza's tirade, expressed her distress.
"He even accused me of not supporting his wife when I was just here to cast my vote like everyone else. He was just rude and harassing some voters," Lydia recounted, underlining the intimidating atmosphere created by Cheza.
This is not the first time Cheza has been involved in such controversies. Last year, he was arrested for assaulting a ZANU PF member, Julius Kunodziya, during elections in the Chirumhanzu South constituency, where he was a candidate for the Citizens Coalition for Change.
Furthermore, he faced legal consequences following an assault on Minister Barbra Rwodzi in the lead-up to the August 2023 elections in the Chirumhanzu South constituency.
Political commentator Edith Mushore commented on the implications of today's events, saying, "Today’s disturbances at Chikurubi polling station are indicative of a worrying pattern of behaviour from Cheza. His actions not only complicate the political dynamics in Harare East but also cast a long shadow over the public’s perception of electoral integrity."
Despite the unsettling incidents precipitated by Cheza, the voting process elsewhere in Harare East and the Mt Pleasant constituency proceeded smoothly. The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has ensured that all logistical aspects are in place, fostering a conducive environment for voters.
"The situation in other parts of the constituency is calm, and we are pleased with the turnout and the orderly process," a ZEC official commented, reassuring the public of their commitment to a fair and peaceful election day.
