Nyore Madzianike Manicaland Bureau
Zanu-PF Manicaland province yesterday started vetting candidates who intend to contest in next month’s primary elections.
This follows a directive by Zanu-PF National Political Commissar Lieutenant-General Engelbert Rugeje (Retired) for all administrative districts to begin the vetting process.
Zanu-PF Manicaland provincial secretary for administration Cde Kenneth Saruchera said those who failed to make the grade had the right to appeal to the provincial elections directorate.
“This is in line with an instruction issued by the national political commissar that all districts must carry out this process,” said Cde Saruchera.
“The processes will be guided by procedures laid down by the national political commissar to decide who qualifies and does not qualify. Our chairperson, Cde Mike Madiro, emphasised that the process would be transparent, honest and impartial.”
Cde Saruchera said those who were disqualified were entitled to appeal through the proper channels.
“After this process, the results will be sent to the provincial executive committee, and the provincial executive council will then reconsider and send them to the provincial coordinating committee who will in turn send to national level,” he said.
“It is the national executive that will make the final decision on who will stand during the primary elections to be held on May 5.”
Mutare district Central Committee member Cde Esau Mupfumi said they were expecting every party member to actively participate in the process.
“Those who fail to make it should learn to toe the line, go back to the districts and go in positions where they are required by the party,” he said. “What we want is for everyone to participate in these elections.”
Cde Mupfumi said those with special cases were free to appeal against the decisions made at district level.