HARARE: Zimbabwe is set to hold nine crucial by-elections on Saturday, marking a significant political development as the ruling ZANU-PF party aims to secure a supermajority without any main opposition candidates.
The absence of key opposition figures in these elections follows a recent political crisis triggered by the declaration of seats held by members of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) as vacant.
The controversy originated from a letter written by Songezo Tshabangu in October, claiming to be the CCC’s interim secretary-general. Addressed to the ZANU-PF parliamentary speaker, the letter asserted that 15 CCC lawmakers had ceased to be party members, resulting in the declaration of their seats as vacant. Despite CCC leader Nelson Chamisa’s protests, the seats were declared vacant, leading to the upcoming by-elections.
Political Crisis in Zimbabwe
Courts ruled on Thursday and Friday to bar all CCC contenders from participating in the by-elections, further consolidating President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s control over the nation. If the ruling stands, ZANU-PF is expected to gain easy victories, bringing it closer to amending the constitution.
The political crisis has heightened concerns about the state of democracy in Zimbabwe, with international observers noting challenges such as legislative interference and the erosion of judicial independence. The CCC, despite anticipating an appeal, faces uncertainties about its candidates’ participation in the elections.
ZANU-PF has dismissed accusations of causing the turmoil, attributing it to what it terms an “irresponsible opposition” self-imploding.
