Nkomo Rallies Support for ZAPU Candidate in Insiza North By-Election

Zimbabwe African People’s Union (ZAPU) President Michael Sibangilizwe Nkomo has made an appeal for unity among opposition parties ahead of the Insiza North by-election, urging voters to rally behind the party’s candidate Thabani Mlotshwa.

The by-election is slated for 14 June and was triggered by the death of Zanu PF’s Farai Taruvinga in March after a long battle with cancer. 

In a statement, Nkomo described the by-election as a pivotal opportunity for Zimbabweans to “liberate” themselves from what he termed the “misrule and policy bankruptcy” of the ruling ZANU PF party.

“We call upon the people of Insiza North to unanimously support and vote for our candidate… a genuine representative of the people,” said Nkomo

He said ZAPU is ready to reciprocate support from other opposition parties in future elections.

The party also praised the Mthwakazi Republic Party (MRP) for withdrawing their candidate to endorse Mlotshwa, describing the move as a selfless sacrifice and a strong symbol of opposition unity.

Nkomo called for a broader national “democratic convergence,” urging opposition parties to band together in all upcoming by-elections to challenge the ruling party’s dominance and block what it sees as efforts to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s rule under the “ED2030 Agenda.”

Nkomo emphasized Mlotshwa’s commitment to servant leadership, saying he would remain “approachable and available” to carry constituents’ voices to Parliament.

“Let the Insiza North by-election marks the return of ZAPU in Parliament to rescue Zimbabwe from further decline. Every vote for Cde Thabani Mlotshwa is a step towards a normal country that works for all,” he said.