Marondera — TWENTY-TWO newly-elected councillors for Marondera Rural District Council were sworn in yesterday.

Four of the councillors belong to MDC-T and the rest from Zanu-PF.

The councillors subsequently retained Cde Felix Shonhiwa as chairman, but only after more than five hours of closed-door deliberations by Zanu-PF councillors.

However, the newly elected councillor for Ward 14, Mr U. Makirimira (MDC) was absent.

Chiefs Mudzimuirema, Samuriwo and Svosve were also appointed ex-officio councilors in their capacity as the rural district traditional leaders.

Council chief executive Mr Tichafara Gundo presided over the swearing-in ceremony which was also attended by district administrator Mr James Chivaro.