By Kelvin Wison Kasiwulaya
The Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) on Monday joined the global community in marking International Democracy Day 2025, warning that artificial intelligence (AI) must be effectively governed to protect and strengthen democratic values.
In a statement, ZESN said AI has the potential to improve transparency and efficiency in electoral processes, but only if it is governed through frameworks that guarantee accountability, inclusion, and citizen participation. “The future of democracy hinges on the ability to govern technology and not be governed by it,” the watchdog said.
The network warned that unchecked AI could fuel disinformation, manipulation, and disenfranchisement. “This is not just a technical issue; it’s about ensuring the benefits of progress are shared equitably and that the most vulnerable are not left behind,” ZESN said.
ZESN urged governments, political parties, and civil society to subject electoral algorithms to independent audits and oversight to prevent bias and misuse. “Public trust in electoral processes depends on it,” the group added, noting that AI systems should be designed to empower, not exclude, marginalized communities. The Network cited the Inter-Parliamentary Union’s reminder that democratic progress is incomplete if it leaves anyone behind.
The Network stressed that governance of AI must not be left to experts alone, but should involve broad citizen engagement. It said strong national and global frameworks are needed to ensure technology strengthens democratic institutions and protects fundamental rights. “Collective voices must drive reforms to ensure AI is a tool for good,” ZESN said.
ZESN urged all stakeholders including governments, political parties, civil society, and citizens to take part in shaping AI policy. “The governance of AI cannot be left to a few experts. Citizens, political parties, and civil society must have a voice in shaping the policies that govern these systems,” the statement read.
This year’s commemoration, held under the global theme “Ensuring effective governance of AI at all levels,” highlights both the opportunities and risks presented by emerging technologies in political systems. “ZESN recognizes that the future of democracy hinges on the ability to govern technology and not be governed by it,” the organisation said. “AI has the power to either amplify the voices of the people, as highlighted in the UN’s ‘From Voice to Action’ theme, or it can be a tool for disinformation, manipulation, and the suppression of democratic participation.”
Founded in 2000, ZESN is Zimbabwe’s largest non-partisan election watchdog. Its message coincided with the 21st anniversary of the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF), which has supported efforts to strengthen democratic governance worldwide.