1 zimbabwe election support network [zesn] - Nehanda Radio

changes to boundaries [ward and constituencies]. Delays in the finalization of the delimitation
exercise resulted in voter registration and inspections being done before the exercise leading
to costly re-runs of primaries in several constituencies. ZEC must be obliged to give public
notice before embarking on a delimitation exercise and “so far as is practicable within the
time available” entertain representations from political parties and other interested parties
who are likely to be affected by it
.
While the nomination exercises were largely transparent, it was noted with concern that
some nomination papers were in some cases rejected or disqualified on the basis of
avoidable reasons such as inadequate papers, candidates being nominated by persons who
are not registered as voters and in some cases prospective candidates’ names not appearing
on the voters’ roll. To avoid such unnecessary rejections of nomination papers, prospective
candidates should ensure that their papers are in order well in advance. Information on ward
and constituency boundaries should also be timely availed so that nominees are identified
from the correct wards.
While in the run up to the 29 March Election there was visible effort to accord some
reasonable access to the media to all political parties, it was distressing to note that in the
run up to the run- off the state media prominently featured ruling party political
advertisements and messages to the total exclusion of MDC T. In those few instances where
reference was made to the MDC T, the messages were ZANU PF sponsored and intended to
disparage, de-campaign and discredit the opposition candidate in all forms. Ideally before the
next elections in Zimbabwe, more broadcasters [independent radio and television stations]
should be allowed to start operating so that the public can receive a greater diversity of
information and viewpoints. The Electoral Commission should also be more proactive in its
monitoring of public broadcasters during the election period to ensure that they observe
these provisions.
Accreditation of local and international observers is too restricted. The Ministry of Foreign
Affairs and the Ministry of Justice still wield veto powers on which groups should be
accredited. The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission must have the decisive say on which
observers to accredit without any ministerial veto power as is currently the case. ZEC should
also accredit sufficient numbers of local and international observers to allow comprehensive
observation of elections and at the same time guaranteeing the security of independent and
domestic election observers.
Postal voting in Zimbabwe remains controversial, shrouded in secrecy and inaccessible to
observers. It is strongly recommended that the doctrine of secrecy that is applied to other
electoral processes must also apply to postal voting. The Electoral Commission should also
be given the power to establish a system that allows Zimbabweans living outside the country
[diaspora voters] to vote by post if they are unable to return to Zimbabwe to cast their votes.
On the issue of voting of assisted voters, it is noted with deep concern that reports of literate
voters being forced to profess illiteracy and seek Assisted Voter status continue to be
received. Measures must be promptly put in place to stop this abuse. The secrecy of their
ballot is also questionable. To safeguard the secrecy of their ballot and also avoid
intimidation and possible future retribution, they should be assisted to vote by a trusted friend
or relative.
The partisan role of the police, army and prison officers remains a major electoral concern.
Cases where acts of violence have been committed either directly by state services or in
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