By Kelvin Wilson Kasiwulaya
As Zimbabwe marks its 44th independence under the theme “Zim@44: Unity, peace and development towards Vision 2030,” the Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) has issued a statement calling for the country to uphold democratic principles and ensure transparent and credible elections.
In a press statement, ZESN acknowledged the progress the country has made in upholding electoral democracy since 1980, noting achievements such as universal suffrage, consistent conduct of elections, and the introduction of the Biometric Voter Registration system.
However, ZESN also highlighted the need for electoral reforms, urging the government and electoral stakeholders to consider proposals submitted by ZESN and other Civil Society Organizations to enhance the credibility and integrity of elections.
“Independence Day also comes at a time when ZESN is advocating for electoral reforms, urging the government and all electoral stakeholders to reconsider proposals submitted by ZESN and various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) during the previous electoral cycle to enhance the credibility and integrity of elections. This call comes against the backdrop of the 2023 Harmonised Elections, which were conducted without significant electoral reforms.Although in 2022, the Zimbabwean government made amendments to the Electoral Act through the Electoral Amendment Bill, such as removing the driver’s license as proof of
identity, ZESN believes these changes primarily addressed nominal and administrative reforms, overlooking crucial reforms essential for transparent and credible elections.Substantive electoral reforms, which stakeholders had been advocating for, were omitted from the amendments to the Electoral Act.”
Despite regular elections every five years, ZESN emphasized the importance of creating an environment conducive to upholding democratic principles, promoting multi-party democracy, transparency, and accountability.
“Elections are crucial in allowing the electorate to select leaders for governance positions. Elected leaders must enhance accountability mechanisms to citizens to uphold good governance and democratic principles,” the statement read.
ZESN called for comprehensive strengthening of progress made in improving the quality of elections, including aligning electoral laws with the Constitution, promoting a peaceful political environment, and ensuring adequate representation of marginalized groups.
As Zimbabweans celebrate their nation’s independence, ZESN urged the country to honor the spirit of freedom and unity by committing to upholding democratic principles and ensuring transparent and credible elections for all citizens.