By Promise Dube
Two candidates vying for the Insiza North parliamentary seat in the upcoming by-election have outlined their key priorities, with both pledging to champion community-led development and improve service delivery in the constituency.
The by-election is slated for 14 June after the seat fell vacant following the death of Farai Taruvinga, who was the MP since 2018 on a Zanu PF ticket.
Thabani Mlotshwa, the Zimbabwe African People’s Union (ZAPU) candidate, said his campaign is rooted in strengthening grassroots participation in governance and promoting equitable development through devolution of power.
Mlotshwa said he plans to establish Ward Development Committees (WDCs) across all wards in the constituency. These community-based structures will work with elected representatives to identify and address local needs.
“These committees will prioritise road maintenance, access to clean water, improved health and education facilities, community empowerment, and the preservation of cultural heritage,” said Mlotshwa.
He also underscored the importance of culturally sensitive education, proposing the recruitment of teachers who understand local languages and traditions. On land reform, Mlotshwa advocated for the elimination of dual farm ownership and called for the issuance of title deeds to deserving farmers.
“We will support local farmers through dipping and restocking programmes, while also pushing for the development of local industries and the beneficiation of local minerals,” he added.
Mlotshwa further pledged to push for tax revenues collected in the area to be reinvested in local services, and said jobs should be prioritised for residents of the constituency.
He called on other opposition parties that are not fielding candidates in the by-election to back ZAPU’s campaign, positioning it as a united front against the ruling ZANU-PF.
“We’re open to dialogue with other opposition groups to build a formidable force capable of challenging ZANU-PF dominance,” Mlotshwa said.
Meanwhile, Mbongeni Moyo, representing the National Revival Party (NRP), struck a conciliatory tone, calling for unity across the political spectrum.
“We are not enemies with ZANU-PF, CCC, MDC or any party. Differences should not breed hostility; instead, they should help us reach balanced and inclusive solutions,” Moyo said.
He echoed Mlotshwa’s emphasis on community-led initiatives, pledging to work closely with residents, government departments and independent agencies.
“Ngisebenza ndawonye lani, lengatsha zikahulumende lezizimeleyo (I work together with you and both government and independent institutions),” he said.
Moyo’s priorities include upgrading road infrastructure, stimulating economic development, and constructing new schools and clinics to serve underserved areas.
Other candidates vying for the seat are Delani Moyo of Zanu-PF and Leslie Dube, who is standing as an independent.
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