Tsvangirai's bid to impose mayors flops

The swearing in of councillors who won in the July 31 harmonised elections in all the 92 local authorities across the country saw the election of mayors for various towns around the country, a development that has dealt a major blow to the MDC-T, which had tried to impose mayors by appointing unelected members.

In Harare where the MDC-T had selected prominent lawyer, Obert Gutu to become mayor, councillors elected Bernard Manyenyeni for the post.

In the elections presided over by Harare Provincial Administrator, Mr Tome in the presence of Town Clerk, Dr Tendai Mahachi, Councillor Manyenyeni polled 38 votes, beating councillor Beadle Gwasira who had seven.

Councillor Thomas Muzuva was elected the Deputy Mayor after getting 38 votes.

In Chitungwiza, Councillor Phillip Mutoti won the mayoral election after receiving 14 votes to beat his main rival, Councillor Frederick Mabamba, who garnered 10 votes.

Mayor Mutoti will be deputised by Councillor Godwell Mushangwe.

In Bulawayo, Councillor Martin Moyo was duly elected mayor of the town, taking over from Councillor Thaba Moyo who resigned at the end of his tenure in July this year, while prominent businessman, Gift Banda was elected as his deputy.

The MDC-T had appointment an unelected councillor, Mandla Nyathi for the post.

Elsewhere, businessman and Zanu-PF councillor, Knowledge Ndlovu won the mayoral elections in Gwanda unopposed and will be deputised by Councillor Albert Ndlovu of Ward 10.

In Chinhoyi where 15 councillors have been sworn in, Councillor Test Michael was elected mayor and Councillor Derek Matapuri his deputy.

Councillor Innocent Zvigumbu was also elected mayor of Bindura and will be deputised by Councillor Theresa Mutandadzi.