Red Cross Zimbabwe Leadership Contest Faces Election Rigging Claims.
Members of the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society have raised concerns about alleged irregularities in recent board elections. The December assembly in Kariba saw David Chaliyanika elected as the new board president.
According to internal sources, former president Edson Mlambo reportedly orchestrated Chaliyanika's victory. The new leadership team includes Emmaculate Chuma and Bennard Sharara as vice presidents, with Paradzayi Dakwa serving as honorary treasurer.
Defence Ministry official Tendai Chilowa observed the election, representing Minister Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri. The International Committee of the Red Cross sent southern Africa head Jules Amoti. However, the International Federation's regional delegate, John Roche, did not attend.
Critics point to several election violations. The election committee included six members instead of the required 24 under the organization's constitution. Questions arose about Secretary General Elias Hwenga's role on this committee despite his position as chief executive officer.
Members report widespread qualification issues among elected officials. Many district leaders hold basic health worker certificates rather than the mandated five O-level passes and national diplomas. The constitution demands three years of membership for district positions.
Concerns emerged about membership documentation. Some receipts bore headquarters stamps but lacked proper branch signatures. Legal teams plan to present evidence of irregularities to government authorities.
Sources claim Chaliyanika's selection aimed to limit oversight, given his base in distant Binga. Mlambo declined to address allegations about election manipulation. Hwenga has not responded to inquiries.
The matter reached the High Court before the assembly, but judges directed complainants to file through standard procedures. The election proceeded despite these pending legal challenges.
Members of the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society have raised concerns about alleged irregularities in recent board elections. The December assembly in Kariba saw David Chaliyanika elected as the new board president.
According to internal sources, former president Edson Mlambo reportedly orchestrated Chaliyanika's victory. The new leadership team includes Emmaculate Chuma and Bennard Sharara as vice presidents, with Paradzayi Dakwa serving as honorary treasurer.
Defence Ministry official Tendai Chilowa observed the election, representing Minister Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri. The International Committee of the Red Cross sent southern Africa head Jules Amoti. However, the International Federation's regional delegate, John Roche, did not attend.
Critics point to several election violations. The election committee included six members instead of the required 24 under the organization's constitution. Questions arose about Secretary General Elias Hwenga's role on this committee despite his position as chief executive officer.
Members report widespread qualification issues among elected officials. Many district leaders hold basic health worker certificates rather than the mandated five O-level passes and national diplomas. The constitution demands three years of membership for district positions.
Concerns emerged about membership documentation. Some receipts bore headquarters stamps but lacked proper branch signatures. Legal teams plan to present evidence of irregularities to government authorities.
Sources claim Chaliyanika's selection aimed to limit oversight, given his base in distant Binga. Mlambo declined to address allegations about election manipulation. Hwenga has not responded to inquiries.
The matter reached the High Court before the assembly, but judges directed complainants to file through standard procedures. The election proceeded despite these pending legal challenges.
