The opposition United Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA) has welcomed a High Court ruling paving the way for its leader, Elisabeth Valerio, to contest the presidential election.
Valerio approached the court after her nomination papers were rejected by Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) presiding officers.
In a statement, UZA national spokesperson, Elvis Dzvene, said the party recognised the ruling as crucial in promoting a democratic and inclusive electoral process.
“It was not right for the Zec to reject our party leader’s nomination papers as there was no legal basis for this. The Valerio 21 decision of the elections body was incorrect considering that our president availed all the relevant documentation to indicate that payment had been effected on time,” said Dzvene.
Vlerio’s nomination papers were rejected after she failed to pay the required US$20 000 nomination fee within the stipulated time frame.
In her court challenge, Valerio argued that she provided proof of a bank transfer to Zec presiding officers, but her nomination papers were rejected.
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Dzvene said they were however equally unhappy about the time spent in the courts challenging the unfair decision to reject Valerio’s nomination papers.
“Our campaign has already begun, however, not having our President on the ballot was a setback,” Dzvene said.
“It is important to note that we remained optimistic that justice would be served. We have not been deterred by the difficulties and our candidates nationally are on the ground spreading the UZA ideology to the electorate.
“As a citizen driven political party we draw our mandate from the people of Zimbabwe.”
The Women’s Academy for Leadership and Political Excellence (WALPE) also welcomed the ruling.
“This is a big win for women and the fight towards achieving gender equality as a whole,” Helen Kadirire, the (WALPE) media and publications officer said.
“Her standing as a candidate among 11 men shows the resilience and tenacity that women have and the need for them to be included and involved in all leadership and decision making processes.
“The constitution clearly outlines provisions for gender equality in all spheres, which should be respected by all”
Valerio is the only female presidential candidate.
There are twelve presidential candidates., to contest the presidential election.