Peaceful Polls in Nkulumane By-Election Record 21% Voter Turnout

By Knowledge Muneri

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has reported a 21% voter turnout in the Nkulumane Constituency by-election, commending the peaceful and conducive atmosphere that characterized the polls. Polling stations opened at 7am and closed at 7pm, with voting continuing for several hours at some centers to accommodate those still in queues .

According to ZEC Commissioner Mrs. Abigail Mohadi-Ambrose, 4,798 voters cast their ballots out of a registered population of 22,833. The breakdown shows 1,909 males and 2,889 females voted by the deadline. However, 383 people were turned away due to various reasons, including being registered in wrong constituencies, lack of valid identification, or presenting driver's licenses .

Candidates from contesting parties praised the calm atmosphere of the poll. Zanu-PF candidate Freedom Murechu expressed optimism about winning the seat, saying, "I am confident of winning the seat for Zanu-PF. We have done our groundwork and connected well with the electorate." Murechu went on to win the election with 3,416 votes, defeating eight other contestants .

Other candidates, including Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) candidate Mothusi Ndlovu and independent candidates Mbuso Fuzwayo and Rodney Jele, also commended the peaceful environment. Results were expected last night to early this morning, with Zanu-PF ultimately emerging victorious .

Final Results:

- Winner: Freedom Phineas Murechu (ZANU-PF) - 3,416 votes
- Runner-up: Rodney Donovan Jele (Independent) - 745 votes
- Turnout: 21% (4,798 voters out of 22,833 registered)