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Own Correspondent
Villagers in Musiiwa, Ward 16 Bindura South Constituency in Mashonaland Central vowed not to elect people who are using intimidatory tactics to force them to vote for them.
Speaking to this publication, several villagers from across the ward expressed concern over the way some political players are force-marching them to political meetings. The disgruntled villagers said they will not vote for people who are using intimidation in pursuit of votes.
“I know what to do in the ballot box. I will make my choice upon entering it. No amount of intimidation and coercion will make me change my mind”, said Antony Masara from Chaka village.
It is alleged that some aspiring candidates are force-marching people to their political meetings at Musiiwa Business Centre and other village assembly points. The villagers reiterated that this will not change their minds.
“People here want to vote for Passmore Mupungai (CCC candidate). Forcing people to attend their meetings will not work. On election day, l am certain the majority of the electorate will vote for him,” vowed Anyway Kaunya from Gwaze village.
Another resident who resides in Rutope township who declined to be named for fear of victimization had this to say:” As people from this ward we are looking at a candidate with the best ideas to develop this area, someone who can persuade voters. I have heard many people talking about Passmore of CCC. Yes, I concur with them because he is bringing in promises that may improve the area. We are tired of people who are just there for the purpose of electioneering.
Recently, Mapuranga villagers were left in shock when a group of political activists thronged the home of Mupungai singing war songs and chanting slogans. They also attacked his dogs. The matter was reported at Musiiwa police base.
Commenting on the incident, Ruka Tomu of Jaji village said, “People should accept competition. They know Passmore has become very popular in this ward so they want to harass his followers. This time people are resolute, no amount of intimidation will scare them come August 23. He (Mupungai) will be our new councilor.
Reached for comment, Mupungai cried foul about opponents who he said were pulling down his campaign posters. “We pasted campaign posters around the ward but they were pulled down the very same day by people who are in panic mode. They know that their support is artificial. Why should you pull down a competitor’s poster? This is cowardice and reflects political immaturity,” lamented the CCC candidate.
Asked about the way forward, he said he will report to the police those engaging in such barbaric acts.
“As enshrined in the Electoral Act, it is a criminal offense to destroy someone’s political campaign posters. We were informed of those who did it and very soon we are going to make a report to the police. No one is above the law”
Ward 16 will see Passmore Mupungai of CCC locking horns with Kumbirayi Musopero of ZANU PF for the local authority seat in the elections to be held on the 23rd of August this year.