The Constitutional Court yesterday upheld July 31 as the date for this year’s harmonised elections after throwing out five different applications which sought the postponement of the poll to various dates next month. The court upheld the proclamation made by President Mugabe on June 13 for the election and nomination dates, which was being challenged by Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai and MDC leader Professor Welshman Ncube.

Applications by PM Tsvangirai, Justice and Legal Affairs Minister Patrick Chinamasa, Prof Ncube, Bulawayo-based woman Ms Mariah Phiri and Mr Nixon Nyikadzino were all dismissed.

“After perusing the papers filed of record and hearing counsel in this matter, the court unanimously concludes that the applications should be and are hereby dismissed with no order as to costs.”

“For the avoidance of doubt, elections should proceed on July 31 in terms of the proclamation by the President of Zimbabwe in compliance with the order of this court issued under CCZ1/2013.

“Reasons for judgment are to follow,” ruled the highest court of the land.

Herald

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