Tinaani Nyabereka
Gweru-Ward 1 Councillor and flamboyant businessman Hamutendi Kombayi has bounced back as City of Gweru mayor replacing Josiah Makombe recalled by the Douglas Mwonzora led MDC -T last month.
He won by 11 votes to 4, ahead of Martin Chivhoko of the MDC Alliance in an election held today, January 11 2022.
The total number of votes cast was 16, with one spoiled.
Three other candidates namely Ward 9 Councilor Edison Kurebgaseka , Ward 18 councilor, John Manyundwa and Ward 10 councilor Charles Chikozho also expressed their interest in the race but were reportedly disqualified by the party’s executive, with Kombayi left to compete with Chivhoko of ward 4.
Kombayi was once sacked from the mayoral post by then Local Government Minister Saviour Kasukuwere in 2017.
In his acceptance speech, Cllr Kombayi expressed the need for unity towards developing the city.
“Let’s work together for the development of Gweru. We want a better Gweru as we go forward,” Kombayi said.
It has been reported that all executive representatives were allegedly hosted for a dinner at Midlands Hotel by Kombayi the night before the election.
In a press statement on January 10, former mayor Josiah Makombe bade farewell to Gweru community, revealing that he was recalled from representing MDC-T on December 10 2021.
I want to take this opportunity to thank all residents of ward 2, which comprises the following suburbs: Athlone , Riverside, Josiah Tungamirai Air base, Harben park, Greenville, Winsor park, Coolmooreen,and Lingfield.
“Thank you so much for your support. You trusted and gave me the chance to serve you as your councillor as well as the Mayor of our city.
“I would also want to thank all the residents and stakeholders of Gweru for giving me the opportunity and support you gave me towards the development of the city,” read Makombe’s statement.
