harare24dmin Nkulumane—As the December 20 by-election draws closer, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) candidate Mothusi Bashimane Ndlovu has rapidly emerged as the most formidable challenger to ZANU-PF’s bid to reclaim the Nkulumane Constituency, following the passing of the late Honourable Desire Moyo.
Among the nine candidates vying for the seat, political watchers, community leaders, and even rival campaign teams now widely acknowledge that Ndlovu’s campaign has surged ahead of the opposition pack—so much so that sources inside ZANU-PF describe him as “the one giving us sleepless nights.”
Over the past two weeks, Ndlovu’s campaign has visibly gained pace and traction, drawing increasing crowds at community engagements, door-to-door visits, and township meetings. His message—heavily grounded in a people-centred manifesto, service delivery, and community dignity—has resonated deeply with Nkulumane residents who continue to voice frustrations over unemployment, deteriorating infrastructure, and unfulfilled political promises.
Strategic insiders within Nkulumane’s political landscape say Ndlovu’s credibility, long-standing community presence, and clean reputation have positioned him as the “candidate to watch” and the most popular campaign outside of the ZANU-PF machinery.
In response, the ruling party has escalated its mobilisation efforts to levels rarely seen in constituency by-elections. Over the last month, ZANU-PF has deployed several cabinet ministers into Nkulumane, rolled out high-budget rallies, and flown in senior officials via helicopter—a move analysts say signals the party’s growing concern over Ndlovu’s momentum.
Independent estimates from campaign monitors suggest that ZANU-PF has invested well over US$1 million in its Nkulumane offensive—resources channelled into logistics, mobilisation, food hampers, road repairs, and high-profile visits aimed at neutralising Ndlovu’s groundswell appeal.
Political analyst Clifford Maseko notes: “ZANU-PF’s unprecedented investment in this by-election is not random. It reflects the seriousness with which the party views Mothusi Ndlovu. He is clearly the strongest challenger, and their campaign footprint shows they recognise the threat.”
On the ground, Nkulumane residents often describe Ndlovu as approachable, relatable, and firmly rooted in the day-to-day struggles of the constituency. His promise to prioritise women, youths, SMEs, and community safety has amplified his appeal—particularly among first-time voters and residents who say they feel “seen” by his campaign.
With less than two weeks to go, Nkulumane is now the epicentre of Zimbabwe’s political attention, with both major parties locked in an intense showdown. But within that battlefield, one thing is increasingly clear: Mothusi Bashimane Ndlovu has become the candidate many believe is poised to cause an upset—and the man ZANU-PF most fears as voting day approaches.
Whether that momentum will translate into victory on December 20 remains to be seen, but for now, Ndlovu stands as the biggest obstacle between ZANU-PF and the Nkulumane seat.
