THE Zanu PF politburo has nullified the Insiza North primary election result that saw former legislator Andrew Langa’s son Moses winning amid an uproar over allegations of vote buying, rigging and violence.
There was a furore when Langa was declared winner in the primary election with party members alleging that people from Harare came to campaign for him.
There were also allegations that Langa used party vehicles and 2023 presidential campaign material while others were not afforded the same privileges.
Sources yesterday told Southern Eye that the nullification of the primary election results followed intervention by members of the security forces who contended that the people’s will was undermined.
Zanu PF central committee member Delani Moyo, who lost the disputed primary election, has since conceded defeat despite his supporters arguing that the elections were rigged.
The primary elections were held on May 3 following the death of legislator Farai Taruvinga.
According to the sources, Zanu PF national commissar Munyaradzi Machacha called a meeting with candidates and supporters in Insiza North on Sunday where he declared that Langa was the party's candidate.
“He did not allow people to make suggestions. But they were aggressive indicating that they will not vote in the by-elections or vote for opposition candidates,” they said.
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“However, over night, elders in the party discussed the issue and just today [Monday] in the morning, we received information that a re-run in Insiza North will be held tomorrow [today].
“As I am speaking all the candidates have started campaigning. So the intervention of the army generals changed the plans even though the leadership wanted Langa. It appears Machacha wanted Langa, but the members reacted heavily about the issue.”
In a notice to supporters, Zanu PF Matabeleland South chairperson Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu confirmed the politburo decision to hold a re-run of the primary election.
“It is such a short notice to be exact and we are still expected to provide logistical support. I am requesting once more that we avail our vehicles by the end of day today (yesterday),” he said.
“My request extends to the Senators and Proportional Representation legislators. I have requested fuel support and I have a firm commitment that we will be given fuel, but this will be tomorrow rather.”
Following the primary election results announcement, Moyo’s supporters were left seething with anger after presiding officer Headman Moyo declared Langa the party’s candidate for the forthcoming by-election.
