Zimbabwe Electoral Commission fills parliamentary vacancies following recalls controversy

Philemon Jambaya

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission announced on Friday, March 1, 2024, the appointment of nine party-list Senators and five party-list members of the National Assembly. These appointments fill the vacancies created by the recent recall of parliamentarians, a move that has been met with controversy.

The notices, signed by ZEC Chairperson Justice Priscilla M Chigumba, state that the appointments are effective from March 1, 2024. The gender balance of the Houses of Parliament remains unchanged, as ZEC was required to appoint members of the same gender as those who were recalled.

This development comes amid ongoing debate surrounding the legality and fairness of the recall process. Critics argue that the recalls are politically motivated and undermine democratic principles. The ZEC, however, maintains that it is following the provisions of the Zimbabwean Constitution.