Nine Candidates File Papers For Nkulumane By-Election

Nine candidates successfully filed their nomination papers on Thursday to contest the Nkulumane parliamentary by-election scheduled for 20 December.

The nomination process opened at 10 AM and closed at 4 PM at the Tredgold Magistrates Court in Bulawayo, after which the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) announced the duly nominated candidates.

The seat became vacant following the death of Desire Moyo (CCC) in a car accident on 10 October.

The by-election is expected to be one of Bulawayo’s most competitive races in recent years, attracting political veterans, activists, independents, and newcomers from various parties.

Among the candidates is Esther Auxillia Zitha, the widow of the late MP, who is running as an independent.

Musician and radio DJ Mothusi Ndlovu, popularly known as Madlela, filed nomination papers to represent the Citizens Coalition for Change faction led by Sengezo Tshabangu.

The MDC-T has nominated Ethel Sibanda, while Alson Moyo will run for EFF Zimbabwe. Independents in the race include Rodney Donovan Jele and Ibetshu LikaZulu, and secretary-general Mbuso Fuzwayo.

Other candidates include Vivian Siziba for ZAPU, Freedom Murechu for ZANU-PF, and Nompilo Ncube Malala for the Zimbabwe African National Congress.

According to ZimLive, Ndlovu, widely known as Madlela Skhobokhobo, arrived at the nomination court accompanied by Tshabangu, drawing attention from supporters and rival party agents.

Nkulumane Constituency, like most of Bulawayo, has traditionally been an opposition stronghold.

Commenting on the nominations, Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart said the lineup reflects the current state of the opposition in Zimbabwe.