Story by Mthokozisi Dube
VOTING has begun in Bulawayo’s Nkulumane constituency, where residents are casting their ballots in a parliamentary by-election to choose a new representative.
Polling stations opened at 7am on Thursday, with early indications pointing to a steady turnout as voters arrived to exercise their constitutional right.
The seat became vacant following the death of Honourable Desire Moyo in a road traffic accident in October, prompting the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission to call the by-election in line with constitutional provisions.
Nine candidates are contesting the poll, reflecting a diverse political field that includes established parties and independents. They are; Freedom Murechu (ZANU PF), Mbuso Fuzwayo (Independent), Rodney Jele (Independent), Alson Moyo (EFF), Nompilo Ncube Malaba (ZANC), Muthusi Ndlovu (CCC), Ethel Sibanda (MDC-T), Vivian Viyo Siziba (ZAPU), and Ester Excelloa Zitha (Independent).
Electoral officials say voting is proceeding smoothly, with security personnel deployed to maintain order at polling stations across the constituency.
The by-election is being closely watched as a test of voter sentiment in one of Bulawayo’s key urban constituencies, with the outcome expected to shape parliamentary representation ahead of future national polls.
