Prince Chese
THE Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has announced by-elections to fill five vacant local authority council seats.
They will be held on Saturday, February 21 2026, following the death and disqualification of sitting councillors.
In an election notice issued by ZEC Chief Elections Officer Silaigwana Tongayi, the vacancies have arisen in Ward 14 of Beitbridge RDC, Ward 1 of Chegutu Municipality, Wards 7 and 12 of Chikomba RDC, and Ward 13 of Matobo RDC. Four of the vacancies resulted from the deaths of the incumbents, while the Chikomba Ward 12 seat fell vacant due to the conviction and imprisonment of the serving councillor.
Nomination courts for these by-elections will sit on Wednesday, 21 January 2026, from 10:00 to 16:00, at designated venues across the respective districts.
ZEC said if more than one candidate is successfully nominated in any ward, voting will proceed on 21 February 2026, in accordance with the Electoral Act.
The announcement reinforces ZEC’s constitutional mandate under Section 278 to fill council vacancies through democratic processes when required.