Vongai Masuka

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has officially declared five vacancies in local authority wards across the country, scheduling by-elections for February 21, 2026.

The announcement follows formal notifications of vacancies in four districts.

According to the commission, four of the seats became vacant due to the deaths of the sitting councillors, while a fifth was vacated following a criminal conviction.

The vacancies span several provinces, affecting rural and municipal councils:

Beitbridge Rural District Council: Ward 14

Chegutu Municipality: Ward 1

Chikomba Rural District Council: Ward 7

Matobo Rural District Council: Ward 13

Chikomba Rural District Council: Ward 12

While four of the vacancies were triggered by the deaths of incumbents, the Chikomba Ward 12 seat fell vacant under more controversial circumstances.

ZEC confirmed that the incumbent was convicted and sentenced to over six months in prison without the option of a fine, a condition that automatically disqualifies a councillor from holding office under Zimbabwean law.

The commission noted that the by-elections will only proceed if more than one candidate is successfully nominated for a ward.

Under Section 125(4)(b) of the Electoral Act, if only one candidate is nominated, they will be declared duly elected without the need for a secret ballot.

These by-elections represent a mid-term test for political parties as they look to consolidate power in local governance ahead of future national polls.