By Kelvin Kasiwulaya
The Southern African Development Community Electoral Observation Mission (SEOM) has released its preliminary assessment of Zimbabwe’s 2023 elections, which highlighted inconsistencies between the electoral process and constitutional standards, the Electoral Act, and the SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections.
The SEOM consisted of 68 observers stationed across Zimbabwe and identified several issues, including concerns about the voters’ roll, issues with the delimitation exercise, challenges with freedom of assembly, nomination fees, women’s participation, alleged voter intimidation, and the coverage of the election by state-owned media.
The group noted delays in the opening of polling stations in Harare and Bulawayo provinces, with some stations opening more than 12 hours late due to ballot paper shortages.
The SEOM also criticised Zimbabwe’s “Patriot Act,” indicating that it restricts free expression, and expressed appreciation for the generally peaceful environment during the election period.
The mission, on the other hand, expressed gratitude for the generally peaceful environment during the election period.
Notably, the environment at polling stations was predominantly calm and peaceful, the mission said.
The SEOM’s final report will be released after the official announcement of results, and it will continue its observation activities until September 1, 2023.