By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
Harare – The Glenview South Constituency is bracing for a pivotal by-election scheduled for April 12, 2025, following the untimely passing of incumbent MP Gladmore Hakata from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).
The election comes at a crucial time for this urban area in Harare, which has been marked by a mix of political enthusiasm and underlying tensions.
The Nomination Court, which took place on March 13, 2025, confirmed five candidates for the upcoming contest. Notably, the candidates include Perpetua Mukanda from the National Constitutional Assembly (NCA) and Tsitsi Tranquillity Tahomera representing ZANU-PF.
Three others – Tonderai Chakaredza, Tungamirai Madzokere, and George Makwangaidze – are competing as independents.
The presence of multiple independent candidates highlights a fragmented political landscape that has emerged since the last general elections.
Despite evident excitement among electoral candidates and supporters, recent reports from the Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) indicate a concerning rise in political tensions. Allegations of poster defacement and vandalism, particularly involving the property of the Ward 32 councillor, have underscored the adversarial nature of the current campaigning environment. While the candidates have been granted room to campaign, the specter of opposition rivalry adds a layer of complexity to an already charged atmosphere.
From a socio-economic standpoint, Glenview South faces enduring challenges, including high unemployment, limited access to clean water, and troubling rates of drug abuse.
These issues have been amplified by an informal economy that struggles to sustain its workforce amidst economic instability.
Nevertheless, recent initiatives involving solar-powered boreholes have provided some relief to residents, showcasing efforts to combat water shortages.
As the election date approaches, ZESN is calling for all candidates and their supporters to adhere to the Electoral Act’s code of conduct.
This appeal is a reminder of the importance of maintaining peace during the campaign period. Voters in Glenview South are being urged to exercise their constitutional right and turn out in large numbers to cast their votes.
In a constituency with a registered voter base of 29,696 and 43 polling stations, the stakes for this by-election are particularly high.
The outcome could signal a shift in the political dynamics within Glenview South, especially following the successful campaign of the CCC in the 2023 Harmonised Elections.
As candidates make their final appeals, the electorate’s engagement will be key in determining the future representation of Glenview South in the National Assembly.
Amidst challenges, the call for a peaceful electoral process resonates strongly, signaling hope that the Glenview South by-election can serve not only as a platform for political expression but also as an opportunity for residents to voice their aspirations for improved living conditions and governance.
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