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Tichaona Zindoga Political Editor
All is set for today’s by-election in Mazowe North constituency and the ruling Zanu-PF candidate, Dr Martin Dinha, says he is confident to see off his opponent, Mr Elias Malukula of the Renewal Democrats of Zimbabwe.

In separate interviews yesterday, Dr Dinha was bullish saying his developmental thrust was key to unlocking the vote in Mazowe North, while Mr Malukula believed he could spring a surprise on his much-fancied opponent.

“We are winning with a landslide, given what we have done and achieved in the constituency since I was nominated,” said Dr Dinha.

“Our campaign was anchored on development, and I was nicknamed ChiBaba cheDevelopment, and I proved to be such: we mobilised funds for massive projects and we upgraded 380km of rural roads through DDF and these include the roads from Bhobho to Garande, Bare-Goteka-Rumanje, Rwere-Madombwe, Chedewu-Chi- gwida.

“We repaired all non-working boreholes, that is 11 out of all 22, and drilled 12 new boreholes at Mvurwi Hospital, Holland Satellite School, Edmonston Resettlement School, Dahwe Primary School (still in progress) and, Chapanza Farm, which we also electrified,” he said.

Other electrification projects were commissioned at Bare Secondary and Rwere Primary schools, said Dr Dinha.

He said he had secured two tractors, two harrows, planter and two ploughs for Donge Irrigation Scheme and would be providing support for 10 irrigation schemes in the constituency.

“Our trump card was refurbishing the Pembi Bridge as you enter Mvurwi, which was constructed 1977 and is narrow and has been causing fatalities. It is a project that was outstanding from the colonial days and we secured $1,8 million for its reconstruction,” said Dr Dinha.

In the areas of health Dr Dinha secured funding for various projects which include upgrading of Suoguru and Holland primary schools and commencement of new schools at Rumanje and Chimurenga 3 while work at a new rural health centre at Gombekombe has com- menced.

He said Mvurwi District Hospital will be upgraded to general hospital status to provide for more services in health in the areas of HIV/Aids and programmes such as male circumcision.

“We are confident to win this one, and improve the livelihoods of the people of Mazowe North,” said Dr Dinha.

Mr Malakula of the Elton Mangoma-led RDZ refused to be cowed and even managed to take a jibe at his opponent: “We are obviously going to win this election. With the way we were campaigning, there is no doubt in my mind that I will be victorious.

“The campaign strategy was a door-to-door approach, and that way we got to meet the constituents in person, and have one-on-one sessions with them. This was a more effective strategy than calling a mass meeting, or having a rally because it was personal,” he said.

Mr Malukula said he and his team were able to reach all parts of the constituency mounting posters, and distributing fliers, and that he enjoyed the support of his party.

“I am from this constituency, and therefore am in touch with the people. Dinha is a visitor from Bindura, how will he know the needs of our people?” he said.

The constituency fell vacant following the sudden death of Zanu-PF’s Cde Edgar Chidavaenzi in March.