By Elvis Dumba
Alaska, Chinhoyi – Residents of Ward 14 in Alaska, a mining compound under the Chinhoyi Constituency, have found themselves at the center of attention as a local authority by-election approaches.
In recent weeks, the area has seen the sudden drilling of two boreholes — currently awaiting connection — and roadworks that locals say had been neglected for over 15 years.
These developments have sparked mixed reactions from residents, many of whom view the timing as politically motivated.
The by-election follows the arrest of former Chinhoyi Municipality Deputy Mayor, Chipo Mlotshwa, who is accused of corruptly acquiring a residential council stand.
“It’s unfortunate that we’re only seeing some development after years of being forgotten,” said Alufandika Sikweche, a 78-year-old resident.
“The timing raises eyebrows. Suddenly, there are graders and borehole rigs here. Where have these resources been all along?”
Sikweche questioned the government’s commitment to its oft-repeated mantra that “no place should be left behind,” arguing that such promises should apply to everyone, regardless of political affiliation.
As the election date nears, political activity in Ward 14 has intensified, with several senior officials from the ruling ZANU PF party making frequent visits to campaign for their candidate.
John Yotamu, ZANU PF’s Provincial Political Commissar for Mashonaland West, expressed confidence in the party’s chances of winning the seat.
“We are a people-oriented party that understands the needs of the people. We’ve been demonstrating this commitment in Ward 14,” Yotamu said.
“We are confident of winning because residents now see that ZANU PF is the only party capable of addressing service delivery issues.”
He dismissed claims that the recent developments were election-driven.
“This isn’t about the election,” he said. “We had a sitting councillor, and we respected their space. But unfortunately, that councillor was more focused on personal gain than serving the community. As ZANU PF, we are stepping in to meet the people’s needs.”
Yotamu added that the current projects are “just the beginning” of more planned development for the ward.
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