BY ATHLAI TATENDA MDZUNGAIRI
THE opposition MDC-T led by Douglas Mwonzora last week recalled three MDC Alliance-affiliated councillors in Kwekwe, including the mayor and her deputy, who only served for one day in that post.
Those affected included Angelina Kasipo of ward 10, Melody Chingarande of ward 5, and Washington Moyo of ward 12. They were recalled last Wednesday.
Kasipo was the serving Kwekwe mayor and Chingarande was recently elected as the deputy mayor following the death of councillor Shadreck Tobaiwa who succumbed to prostate cancer last month.
Chingarande served for only one day as deputy mayor before being recalled.
In a letter to the acting town clerk of the municipality of Kwekwe Lucia Mnkandhla, Local Government minister July Moyo said the MDC-T had notified him of the expulsion of the trio from the party, and, therefore, their recall from council.
“I wish to inform you that I am in receipt of a letter from the secretary-general of MDC-T dated 4 August 2021 stating the following councillors have been expelled from the party: Councillor Kasipo Angeline (ward 10), councillor Melody Chingarande (ward 5) and councillor Washington Moyo (ward 12),” Moyo said.
Chingarande confirmed to Southern Eye that she was recalled.
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“I have been recalled from council, I really enjoyed working with the residents for the betterment of our city and the best service delivery regardless of our different beliefs and philosophical thoughts.
“We will miss all our management and fellow councillors. I am the shortest serving deputy mayor,” Chingarande said.
A few days ago, Kwekwe councillors were divided over the election of a deputy mayor to replace the late Tobaiwa.
It is alleged that some councillors affiliated to the Mwonzora-led MDC-T on Tuesday walked out when elections which were won by Chingarande were being. This then led to the recalls of those affiliated to the MDC Alliance led by Nelson Chamisa.
The ruling Zanu PF party only has one councillor, Maclean Nyamucherera.
Meanwhile, the MDC-T also recalled four MDC Alliance councillors in Chipinge Urban.
Those recalled are Zivanai Nyakuchena of ward 1, Sarah Marwa ward 2, Raina Madenyika ward 4, and Chrispen Rambu ward 8.
More than 80 MDC Alliance councillors have been recalled since last year when a controversial Supreme Court judgment ruled in favour of the MDC-T.
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