A fight over water projects is heating up a by-election in a Bulawayo constituency. Ruling party officials delivered fifty water tanks and solar panels to Nkulumane, but the equipment sits unused at a business center. Opposition candidates call it a blatant vote-buying scheme by Zanu PF, saying the materials will vanish if they lose the Saturday poll.
Zanu PF’s candidate, Freedom Murechu, has been highly visible with substantial party backing. His campaign recently featured a large rally with national officials promising a big revolving fund, several boreholes, and scholarships. The party's local spokesperson, Archibold Chiponda, dismissed the criticism as ridiculous. He argued it makes no political sense to install and then remove community infrastructure.
Other candidates see it differently. Campaigners for independent Mbuso Fuzwayo and Zapu’s Vivian Viyo Siziba condemned the tactic as unfair electoral manipulation. They accused the party of using state resources to gain an edge. The crowded field includes nine contenders, like the late MP's widow and a popular comedian, all vying for the vacant seat.
Zanu PF’s candidate, Freedom Murechu, has been highly visible with substantial party backing. His campaign recently featured a large rally with national officials promising a big revolving fund, several boreholes, and scholarships. The party's local spokesperson, Archibold Chiponda, dismissed the criticism as ridiculous. He argued it makes no political sense to install and then remove community infrastructure.
Other candidates see it differently. Campaigners for independent Mbuso Fuzwayo and Zapu’s Vivian Viyo Siziba condemned the tactic as unfair electoral manipulation. They accused the party of using state resources to gain an edge. The crowded field includes nine contenders, like the late MP's widow and a popular comedian, all vying for the vacant seat.
