HARARE: Observers from the Southern African regional bloc SADC stated on Friday that Zimbabwe’s recently held presidential and legislative elections did not adhere to democratic principles.
While acknowledging that the pre-election and voting phases were relatively peaceful and calm, the observers’ mission highlighted shortcomings in the harmonized election process.
Nevers Mumba, the head of the delegation, emphasized that certain aspects of the election did not meet the criteria set forth in Zimbabwe’s constitution, the electoral act, and the democratic election guidelines of SADC.
The Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) specifically pointed out concerns such as the cancellation of opposition rallies and allegations of voter intimidation, which marred the election proceedings.
The outcome of this election is of significant interest across southern Africa as it serves as a barometer for gauging the level of support for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s ZANU-PF party. The party’s 43 years rule has been under scrutiny due to economic stagnation and allegations of authoritarian governance.
