Massive chaos during CCC candidates selection process
CCC’s candidates’ selection process on Wednesday was marred by violence, reports of imposition of candidates and other malpractices.
For instance, in Beitbridge West, at a number of wards, the nominations were reportedly abandoned altogether due to violence.
In several centres, the selection process reportedly started later than the scheduled time as members and presiding officers were not clear on the procedures.
In Glen Norah, Harare, former Harare mayor Herbert Gomba’s supporters allegedly assaulted another aspirant Womberai Nhende.
Both the Citizens Coalition for Change and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the violence.
CCC deputy spokesperson Gift Siziba told NewsDay that ZANU PF members infiltrated the process. He said:
We have had some incidents where the proceedings were disrupted by intruders.
The proceedings were open to our members only, but ZANU PF infiltrated the processes.
ZRP national spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said they were aware of “alleged clashes” but no report had been made to the police. He said:
We have heard of some disturbances and alleged clashes, but as police, we have not received any official complaint. No one has come forward to report the cases.
CCC conducted the selection process to choose candidates to stand at the council, parliament, and presidential level in upcoming general elections.
The opposition party decided not to hold primary elections but to allow communities to select suitable party representatives to contest the 2023 elections.
The process was overseen by an Independent Candidate Selection Panel (ICSP).
1/2 CCC candidates selection process update
There was chaos in Rugare after e presiding officer had informed CCC supporters to group according to their streets and have consensus nominations of preferred candidates. pic.twitter.com/EVzcEOBvQA
— Kundayi Masekesa (@Kundimasekesa) April 6, 2023
There was chaos during yesterday's CCC candidates selection process in Warren Park. Members later exchanged blows#chaorachinhuichi pic.twitter.com/wCCfO9FYmT
— Kundayi Masekesa (@Kundimasekesa) April 6, 2023
