By Kelvin Wilson Kasiwulaya
Harare, April 8, 2024 – The Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) has highlighted the importance of increased voter turnout and education following the Local Authority by-elections in Kusile Rural District Council (RDC) Ward 13 and Redcliff Municipality Ward 3, where Zimbabwe African National Unity Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF) emerged victorious.
The by-elections aimed to fill vacancies left by the untimely deaths of incumbent Councillors.
ZESN’s observations, based on reports from nine static observers deployed across the two Wards, highlighted a calm and peaceful political environment during polling, with commendations for the candidates and supporters for maintaining peace.
The electoral watchdog emphasized the importance of transparency, fairness, and accountability in safeguarding election integrity.
Recommendations for Improved Electoral Processes
ZESN’s recommendations focused on enhancing voter turnout in local authority by-elections and providing additional voter education to the electorate.
The Network urged political parties to encourage their supporters to exercise patience during the counting and announcement of results, emphasizing the significance of political and electoral rights as enshrined in the Constitution.
Election Results
In the by-elections, ZANU-PF candidates, Christina Sigauke and Donald Chewareerwa, secured victories in Redcliff Municipality Ward 3 and Kusile RDC Ward 13, respectively.
Conclusion and Impact
ZESN commended the electorate for their peaceful engagement in the by-elections, recognizing the pivotal role of Councillors in local governance and service delivery. The Network emphasized the importance of citizen participation in shaping local governance and improving essential services within communities.
Background and Observations
The by-elections were conducted in accordance with Section 121 A of the Electoral Act (Chapter 2:13) following the necessary legal framework and nomination processes. Polling stations were set up efficiently, with essential materials available, and polling procedures were followed diligently.
Voter turnout varied between the two Wards , turnout stood at 28.3% in Kusile RDC Ward 13 and 47.3% in Redcliff Municipality Ward 3, with low numbers of redirected and turned away voters reported.
The Network’s preliminary report underscored the need for continuous improvement in electoral processes to ensure inclusivity and transparency.