Residents reject Chamisa's Vic Falls mayoral nominees

Residents in Victoria Falls have rejected the mayoral and council committee chairperson candidates nominated by the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC). Reports indicate that the party attempted to impose its candidates, leading to protests by residents.

The newly-elected councillors competing for the position of mayor include Ephius Mambume, Prince Thuso Moyo, Nkanyiso Sibindi, and Rich Mguni. However, the party preferred Mambume, while residents supported Sibindi.

Victoria Falls has 11 elected councillors, with 10 from the CCC and one independent, along with three Women's Quota representatives (two from the opposition party and one from Zanu-PF).

Mayoral elections were scheduled, but disgruntled residents blocked the process, accusing CCC president Nelson Chamisa of imposing Mambume. CCC's national spokesperson, Promise Mkwananzi, dismissed the allegations, emphasizing that candidates are chosen based on capacity, integrity, and loyalty to the party and citizens.

Victoria Falls Combined Residents Association chairperson Kelvin Moyo expressed disappointment that the election did not proceed and urged the party to consult widely on the matter. Human rights activist Mbuso Fuzwayo criticized Chamisa for allegedly imposing candidates, likening it to a contest with President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

The town clerk, Christopher Dube, stated that council would consult the Local Government ministry for a solution following the protests.