Parties upbeat ahead of polls

A NUMBER of political parties have begun preparations for the forthcoming harmonised elections and have expressed confidence about turning around the fortunes of the country if elected into office.

Contacted for comment, leaders of Zanu Ndonga, Multiracial Open Party Christian Democrats and the Congress for True Democracy expressed optimism of victory in the forthcoming elections.

Mr Aaron Sakuinje, president of Zanu Ndonga - whose party is a member of the MDC Alliance - said his party would play a big role in the development of the country.

“The country’s economy is in bad shape and as part of the MDC Alliance we hope to make our contribution to its revival if we win the elections and we are confident of winning,” he said.

Mr Sakuinje also reiterated calls for so-called electoral reforms to level the playing field.

Government has implemented a number of reforms, including the enactment of the Electoral Amendment Act and the compiling of a new voters’ roll.

Multiracial Open Party Christian Democrats secretary for information and publicity Mr Matthias Guchutu said they would strive to improve the people’s livelihoods.

“We are part of the MDC Alliance and our major thrust is the revival of the country’s economy, but that can only be achieved if we have free and fair elections,” he said.

“That is why we are calling for the levelling of the electoral field so that people are free to make their choice.”

Speaking on behalf of the Congress for True Democracy, party president Mr Arthur Ncube said his party was ready for the polls following the proclamation of the election dates.

“We have always been ready for the elections and now that the dates have been announced we will continue with the preparations and we just urge people to vote wisely,” Mr Ncube said.

He would not disclose how many seats they would contest, saying they would announce that in due course.

Over 130 political parties have registered with ZEC to contest the forthcoming harmonised elections, but it remains to be seen how many will go past the nomination court.