By Martin Muleya
MUTARE-The Manicaland Provincial Chiefs’ Council has elected Chief Mutasa to the Senate in an election where 19 substantive chiefs cast their votes.
The election was held to fill the vacancy left by Chief Makumbe, born Shepherd Chengeta, who passed away last year.
Chief Mutasa garnered 15 votes, while the other contestants, Chief Chiduku and Chief Makoni, shared 4 votes.
Chief Chikukwa was also elected to the Chiefs’ Council after he garnered 7 votes, against Chief Marange who received 6 votes, Chief Hata with 4 votes, and Chief Chimombe and Chief Chiduku with 1 vote each.
Chief Chikukwa now joins Chief Mapungwana, Chief Mutasa, Chief Gwenzi, and Chief Muusha as members of the Provincial Chiefs’ Council.
The elections were hailed as peaceful and transparent, with observers praising the chiefs for their democratic participation.
“We are committed to working together to address the pressing issues facing our communities, including economic development, education, and healthcare,” said the newly elected Senator, Chief Mutasa.
“I am here to serve as a representative of all of us, and I challenge my peers to advise me accordingly. I am human, and I am bound to make mistakes, but I believe we work as a team, not as individuals. I thank the Chiefs who have shown faith in me, and I will do my utmost best not to let them down,” he added.
The Chiefs’ Council plays an important role in promoting cultural heritage, resolving disputes, and advocating for the welfare of traditional communities.
The elections come at a time when traditional leaders are facing increasing challenges, including land disputes, environmental degradation, and social inequality.
