Nelson Chamisa, the leader of opposition Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) Saturday said he will personally sign nomination papers for party candidates to avoid the issue of double candidate mix-up.
This year, just weeks after being formed, CCC fielded two candidates in at least two wards, Bulawayo and Masvingo, for the 26 March by-elections, a move that will divide the party’s votes.
Responding to Chamisa’s remarks, renowned author, Tsitsi Dangarembga said:
Alone, or are there co-signatories?
Political Science Professor, Jonathan Moyo, suggested that Chamisa has a mammoth task. Said the exiled former Information minister:
Plus his nomination papers as presidential candidate @nelsonchamisa will sign for: *280 MPs: 210 constituency + 60 pr women & 10 pr youths *80 Senators: 60 pr + 18 chiefs +2 persons with disabilities *110 provincial councilors * 1,958 Ward Councillors *TOTAL: 2,428 CANDIDATES!
NB: The Electoral Act provides for two signatories to countersign nomination papers for election candidates sponsored by, or representing, political parties!
Others said the plan was not thought through as it is centralisation of power which is contrary to the gospel of devolution the party is preaching.
Some said he only meant that his office will preside over the whole process.