Nelson Chamisa, leader of the CITIZENS Coalition for Change (CCC), expressed optimism about his chances of victory despite raising concerns about the conduct of the election. He voiced apprehensions over potential efforts to disenfranchise his supporters in Harare and Bulawayo, citing delays in the opening of some polling stations due to late delivery of ballot papers. While voting commenced only after lunch in certain stations, disruptions were minimal in rural areas.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) acknowledged the delays in a statement released yesterday. However, Chamisa criticized Zec for its failure to serve the citizens and his supporters effectively. After casting his vote at Kuwadzana 2 Primary School, he remarked, “We are disappointed with Zec’s performance. There was no voting in our strongholds this morning.”
Chamisa pledged that his party would engage with Zec to address their concerns. He also raised suspicions about the indelibility of the ink used for voting, emphasizing that Zec had not provided satisfactory explanations. Additionally, he expressed dissatisfaction with the voters’ roll and the handling of ballot papers. Chamisa accused Zec of engaging in questionable practices and instigating violence in rural areas.
Having previously lost the disputed 2018 poll to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Chamisa is making another bid for the presidency. Mnangagwa seeks re-election for a second term, facing a close contest.
“We have emerged victorious in this election, and we will continue to advocate for peaceful and credible elections to ensure a legitimate outcome,” Chamisa asserted confidently. He alleged that the apparent panic and collusion between Zec and his opponents were due to their knowledge of his victory.
Zec stated that it would announce all results within the next five days. Meanwhile, both the police and the electoral management body cautioned against the unauthorized release of results, citing its illegality.
