As Zimbabwe prepares for harmonized elections on August 23, the ruling Zanu-PF party appears to be well-organised and ready while the opposition is struggling. Zanu-PF has completed candidate selection through primary elections and recently held an orientation program for successful candidates.
Nomination papers are being submitted to provincial and district party offices, allowing time for corrections before the nomination period opens. Political analysts say Zanu-PF’s thorough preparations and President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s transformation agenda in the country put the party in a strong position to win the elections.
In contrast, the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) is facing challenges in selecting candidates. Party leader Nelson Chamisa claims to be the sole signatory for nomination forms, apparently to avoid duplications. However, this has sparked concerns about transparency and lack of internal democracy.
Some analysts say the absence of political structures in the CCC could cause anxiety among supporters who are unsure who is contesting which constituencies. Funding also appears to be an issue, with CCC candidates struggling to raise nomination fees. Due to opaque processes within the CCC, only a few urban candidates are likely to contest.
Zanu-PF political commissar Mike Bimha said successful candidates are submitting nomination papers to provincial and local party offices to allow time for corrections. On the other hand, analysts say Nelson Chamisa’s tyrannical approach and failure to establish grassroots structures within the CCC shows a lack of seriousness and planning.
As election day nears, Zanu-PF appears to command a comfortable lead, thanks to thorough preparations and organizational acumen. The disarray within the opposition, especially the CCC, could see many of their candidates fail to contest.
