ZANU PF says the salary dispute and housing crisis at the Hwange Colliery Company Limited (HCCL) could affect its bid to win back the Hwange Central seat.
Nduduzo Tshuma
The Hwange Central seat has been in the hands of the MDC-T since 2000.
But since the consummation of the coalition government in September 2008, Zanu PF has been making inroads into the constituency with Mines minister Obert Mpofu leading a crusade to revive the party.
Zanu PF Matabeleland North deputy provincial chairperson Reeds Dube is eyeing the constituency.
On Monday Dube told Southern Eye that he was planning to hold a meeting with the HCCL management to find ways to address the issue.
“I have intentions of meeting the HCCL management over a number of things that are frustrating the people here that will negatively affect my party’s performance in the coming elections,” Dube said.
He said people in the mining town were complaining about rentals they were made to pay for staying at the colliery.
- Chamisa under fire over US$120K donation
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Pension funds bet on Cabora Bassa oilfields
- Councils defy govt fire tender directive
Keep Reading
“The main problem is with the letting department,” Dube said. “The houses are more than 100 years old and have not been renovated yet the letting department is charging exorbitant rentals.
“Teachers and some employees living in the houses have been threatened with eviction if they do not pay.
“That, coupled with the salaries issue may dent my party’s hopes of winning back the seat.”
The deputy provincial chairperson said despite the setback, they were still engaging masses to rally behind Zanu PF in the coming elections.
“We have been holding various meetings with a number of people. The response we have been getting is quite positive,” he said.
“What we need is to find strategies in addressing the frustrations of the people in terms of salaries and accommodation costs.”
Meanwhile, Mpofu last Thursday resumed his campaign in the province with rallies in Binga district.
Mpofu at the weekend donated an ambulance in Hwange West constituency.
His cousin, Bekithemba “Zebra” Mpofu is eyeing the seat. The minister conducted another rally in Hwange on Sunday.
