By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
Zanu PF aspiring candidate for Masvingo Urban constituency — James Pande — has distanced himself from reports that he is fronting a particular Zanu PF faction.
The youthful international entrepreneur and fashion designer who has done campaign regalia for parties in the region like ANC in South Africa said he was solidly behind leadership of the day.
“There are efforts by critics that I belong to this or that faction, NO! First and foremost, I am proudly Zanu PF having been born and bred in Masvingo.
“Secondly, I tow the party line and the presidium which is what everyone does including Vice President Chiwenga,” Pande said.
He also dispelled talk that he was not resident in Masvingo saying he was back to develop the city since he was born the in the ancient town.
“I am an inspiration to the youth in Masvingo urban because they relate with my struggle and I’m from the ghetto. I have had successful businesses outside the country and also I am well known throughout Zimbabwe having been a youth leader so both the young and old can relate to my background which gives me an upper hand,” Pande said.
Pande who is a South African based businessman said he was confident of victory.
“Yes…I am ready for the elections and I am confident that I will represent my party in Masvingo Urban,” said Pande.
Currently, Masvingo Urban has Jacob Nyokanhete of the Citizens Coalition for Change as the House of Assembly member.
Since 2000 the seat has been held mostly by the opposition. Silas Mangono MDC, (2000), Tongai Matutu MDC (2005), Daniel Shumba –Zanu PF, (2013) and the current incumbent, Nyokanhete.
The party’s primary elections were postponed indefinitely amid speculative reports that the internal fighting needs to be cleansed in a potentially explosive Polituburo meeting set for Monday.
There have been reports of vote buying countrywide where prospective councillors and house of assembly members are trying to win by all means possible.
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