Story by Grace Sibanda
THE first stage of the August 23 General Elections was set in motion this Thursday, with the National Council of Chiefs being elected in the country’s eight non-metropolitan provinces under the supervision of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission.
In Matabeleland North, Ntabazinduna was the venue for the province as 36 chiefs converged for the election of the five members of the National Council of Chiefs.
The Matabeleland North Council of Chiefs was previously presided over by four members, with three members of the previous chief`s council – Chief Lukas Mtshane Khumalo, Chief Skhobokhobo and Chief Siabuwa, being retained during this Thursday’s polls.
The two newly elected members are Chief Siansali and Chief Nekatambe.
The Zimbabwe Gender Commission and the European Union observed the proceedings of the elections.
“The process was so peaceful and it shows that as traditional leaders they are very united and followed the standard legal process to elect their leaders. We hope they will go ahead and preach the gospel of peace so that we have fair and credible elections,” said the Vice Chairperson of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, Mr Obert Matshalaga.
The elections were presided over by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission.
“It is not usual to see such unity as we have witnessed today during this election. May this unity and order be prevalent in your areas where campaigns are taking place. Rebuke violence of any sort,” said ZEC Provincial elections officer, Mr Richard Sibanda.
The President and Deputy President of the Council of Chiefs will be elected on the 10th of August, while the traditional leaders will gather on the 24th of August for senate elections.
