ZANU PF candidate for the Mabvuku-Tafara constituency by-election, Scott Sakupwanya, has emerged victorious without facing any opposition. This unprecedented outcome follows a series of legal maneuvers and controversies surrounding the participation of eight recalled Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Members of Parliament in the upcoming by-elections.

High Court Justice Never Katiyo, who initially issued an order on Thursday, October 7, barring the eight recalled CCC MPs from participating in the by-election, withdrew the order today. However, in a twist of events, a fresh order has been issued, now including Munyaradzi Kufahakutizwi in the list of candidates barred from contesting.

The legal saga unfolded after CCC Interim Secretary General Sengezo Tshabangu took the matter to court, seeking to prevent the recalled CCC MPs from participating in the by-elections. Tshabangu argued that these MPs, having been expelled from the CCC, should not be allowed to contest the elections on behalf of the party that had removed them.

In other news – Scott Sakupwanya buys votes with a bag of maize meal

Supporters of Zanu-PF who attended a rally for party candidate Pedzai Sakupwanya in the Mabvuku-Tafara constituency received a 10kg bag of maize meal, a 2kg packet of flour, and a loaf of bread, two days before the gold miner entered the parliamentary race. A queue, comprising the elderly, schoolchildren, and youths, extended around Mabvuku Stadium, showing residents’ unwavering hope despite the heat and congestion at entry points. Three trucks loaded with goods were delivered to the stadium, ensuring that everyone present would receive a share.

Sakupwanya, a former Harare Councillor, aims to secure a place in Parliament after losing to Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) candidate Munyaradzi Kufahakutizwi in the August General Elections. Read More