5 by-elections to be held February

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has formally declared vacancies in five local authority wards across the country and announced dates for nomination courts and possible by-elections.

In a statement released on Tuesday, ZEC said it had received written notifications confirming that four of the vacancies arose following the deaths of incumbent councillors. The affected seats are Ward 14 of Beitbridge Rural District Council, Ward 1 of Chegutu Municipality, Ward 7 of Chikomba Rural District Council and Ward 13 of Matobo Rural District Council.

The commission said a fifth vacancy occurred in Ward 12 of Chikomba Rural District Council after the sitting councillor was convicted and sentenced to a term of imprisonment exceeding six months without the option of a fine or any non-custodial sentence.

"Now therefore the commission hereby notifies the public of the vacancies that have so arisen," ZEC said.

The electoral body announced that nomination courts for the vacant wards will sit on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 10am to 4pm. The courts will be held at venues designated in the official schedule for the respective local authorities.

ZEC further advised that polling day has been set for Saturday, February 21, 2026, should elections be required in terms of Section 125(4)(b) of the Electoral Act.

The commission urged prospective candidates and stakeholders to take note of the timelines as preparations begin for the possible by-elections in the affected wards.