ZIMBABWE: Chamisa slams electoral body as vote rigging claims fray

By Ollus Ndomu

Opposition leader Nelson Chamisa from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has strongly criticized the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) as the plebiscite encountered a false start in most urban areas of the nation.

Zimbabweans are presently casting their votes in a critical election that covers the Presidency, National Assembly, and Local Authority.

The election’s commencement in urban areas faced significant issues, primarily due to ZEC’s inability to ensure timely delivery of voting materials.

Following the casting of his ballot in Kuwadzana, Chamisa conveyed his disappointment with the electoral body’s performance.

“ZEC’s performance has been a letdown. The turnout has been substantial. Their focus is on urban areas. Those associated with Zanu PF understand that we are poised to emerge victorious in this election, and the victory is already ours. There exists unwavering support both in urban and rural regions,” Chamisa expressed.

In several urban areas visited by NewZimbabwe.com during the morning hours, voting did not commence until as late as 4pm.

This has led to widespread criticism of ZEC’s handling of this year’s general elections, drawing condemnation from observers and opposition figures alike.

At Harare’s Kuwadzana 3 primary school, ballot papers finally arrived by 10:00, while in Kambuzuma, individuals endured long queues, waiting to cast their votes at midday.

Despite these challenges, Chamisa remains optimistic about achieving electoral victory in his second attempt at the helm.

“We’ve deployed our teams to condemn this situation. ZEC has been alerted to our dissatisfaction with their conduct. We anticipate their prompt attention to this matter. What I can confidently state is that Zimbabwe’s voice has been heard. This is our moment. Tranquility is on the horizon for Zimbabwe. A new government will soon preside over the nation,” Chamisa affirmed.