Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu PF, emerged victorious in all six National Assembly by-elections held on Saturday, solidifying its grip on power and securing a crucial two-thirds majority. This milestone achievement grants the party the authority to amend the constitution, a move that could have far-reaching implications for the country’s political landscape.
The by-elections, which took place in Pelandaba Tshabalala, Chegutu West, Goromonzi South, Zvimba East, Mkoba North, and Seke, saw Zanu PF candidates triumph over their opponents. Notably, these seats were previously won by the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) in the general elections held last August.
The catalyst for these by-elections was Sengezo Tshabangu, who declared himself the interim secretary general of the CCC. Tshabangu orchestrated the recall of several party lawmakers, prompting the need for the by-elections. To further consolidate their advantage, Tshabangu ensured that the recalled lawmakers were barred from participating by obtaining a court order. Some of these lawmakers attempted to run as independents but were unsuccessful in their bids.
With a mere three seats needed to attain a two-thirds majority, Zanu PF now boasts an impressive 190 seats out of the 280-member National Assembly. This victory comes as a reversal of their performance in the general elections, where they fell short of the required majority, securing only 136 out of the 209 contested seats. The CCC, on the other hand, secured 73 seats.
The significance of this two-thirds majority cannot be overstated. Zanu PF’s desperation to attain it stems from the party’s desire to pass legislation through the lower House of Parliament with ease.
As the ruling party celebrates this resounding victory, the opposition and civil society organizations express concern over the potential implications of constitutional amendments. Critics fear that these changes could concentrate power in the hands of a few, undermining democratic principles and the checks and balances that are essential for a thriving society.
Zimbabwe now stands at a critical crossroads, with the ruling party wielding significant leverage to shape the nation’s future. The impact of this two-thirds majority and the subsequent constitutional amendments, if pursued, will undoubtedly reverberate throughout the country, shaping the political landscape for years to come.
