Candidates vying for the Nkulumane parliamentary seat have intensified their campaigns ahead of the December 20, 2025 by-election, which was triggered by the death of Desire Moyo in a car accident in October.
Nine candidates were nominated by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) last week. On Tuesday, CITE spoke to independent candidate Rodney Jele and his supporters as they conducted door-to-door campaigns across the constituency.
Supporter Sithandiwe Dube said residents want a representative who prioritises vulnerable groups.
“As the people of Nkulumane, we need a leader who has the best interests of residents at heart. We have widows and orphans who need assistance. Widows require income-generating projects to support their families, and some orphans cannot afford school. We need someone who will address these needs,” she said.
Another supporter, Alphina Gumbo, said unemployment remains a major concern for young people.
“As youths we can start projects, but we lack resources and funding. We hope that if we elect Jele, he will help us access opportunities,” she said.
Community member Pauline Mjakanja expressed confidence in Jele, noting his previous service as a councillor.
“We have worked with him before and he executed his duties well. We believe he will do the same in Parliament. We also face rising drug and substance abuse among youths, and we hope he will help implement policies to tackle this,” she said.
Jele said he was encouraged by the support and that the door-to-door campaign was allowing him to interact directly with residents.
“I am glad to have people who believe in the cause. I have worked with the people of Nkulumane before and I hope they will choose me again,” he said.
He added that youth unemployment and support for vulnerable groups would be top priorities if elected.
“Youths need jobs and sustainable projects, and widows and the elderly also require support. Their welfare will be at the centre of my work when I get into office,” Jele said.