By-Election Ordered for Nkulumane Constituency in Zimbabwe
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has issued a proclamation to hold a by-election in the Nkulumane constituency, located in Bulawayo. This decision comes in response to the recent passing of Desire Moyo, who was the sitting Member of Parliament (MP) for the area.
Moyo, widely known as Moyoxide, died on October 10 after his car collided with an elephant on the Gweru-Bulawayo highway while he was traveling from Parliament. His death has created a vacancy in the National Assembly, prompting the need for a new election to fill the seat.
Moyo was a member of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) and had served on several parliamentary committees, including those focused on sport, recreation, arts, and culture. His role in these areas made him a prominent figure among constituents and within the political landscape of Zimbabwe.
The Speaker of Parliament, Jacob Mudenda, officially informed President Mnangagwa of the vacancy on October 31. Following this notification, the President issued Proclamation 6 of 2025, which outlines the steps necessary to conduct the by-election.
According to Statutory Instrument (SI) 169A of 2025, the law mandates that the President must issue a proclamation ordering a new election once notified of a parliamentary vacancy. The document states:
“Whereas it is provided by section 39(2) of the Electoral Act (Chapter 2:13), that after the President has been notified in terms of the said section of vacancies in the membership of Parliament, he shall issue a proclamation ordering a new election to fill the vacancies in the same manner, mutatis mutandi, as provided in section 38 of the said Act in regard to a general election.”
This legal framework ensures that the process for filling a vacant seat mirrors the procedures used in general elections, maintaining consistency and fairness in the electoral system.
As per the provisions of the Electoral Act, the by-election must be held within 90 days of the President being informed of the vacancy. Based on this timeline, November 20, 2025, has been set as the nomination day for candidates at the Magistrates’ Court in Bulawayo. If there are multiple eligible candidates, voting will take place on December 20, 2025.
The by-election is expected to draw significant attention from both local and national political actors. Given that Moyo was a member of the opposition, the contest could have implications for the balance of power in the National Assembly.
Key Dates for the Nkulumane By-Election
- Nomination Day:November 20, 2025
- Voting Day (if applicable):December 20, 2025
These dates mark critical milestones in the process of filling the vacant seat. The Magistrates’ Court in Bulawayo will serve as the venue for candidate nominations, ensuring transparency and adherence to legal procedures.
The by-election is not only a procedural necessity but also an opportunity for voters in the Nkulumane constituency to express their preferences and elect a representative who reflects their interests.
Implications of the By-Election
The outcome of the by-election could influence the political dynamics in Zimbabwe, particularly in the context of the ongoing dialogue between the ruling party and the opposition. With Moyo’s passing, the CCC is looking to reassert its presence in the National Assembly, and the by-election provides a platform for this effort.
For the ruling ZANU-PF, the contest presents an opportunity to strengthen its position in the region. However, the opposition’s ability to mobilize support and present a strong candidate could challenge the government’s dominance in the constituency.
Ultimately, the by-election will be a test of the electoral integrity and democratic processes in Zimbabwe. It will also serve as a reminder of the importance of timely and transparent governance in maintaining public trust.