By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
The Zimbabwe Election Support Network has urged elected leaders to enhance accountability mechanisms to citizens as part of efforts to uphold the essence of good governance and democratic principles.
In a statement to mark 44th Independence, ZESN reiterated its call for comprehensive and timely strengthening of the progress made thus far in improving the quality of elections.
“This includes aligning electoral laws fully with the Constitution; strengthening ZEC capacity and accountability to conduct electoral processes effectively and transparently; fostering a political environment conducive to holding free, fair, peaceful and credible elections; ensuring adequate representation of marginalized groups; electoral stakeholders to have access to justice, reduced election-related violence and adopting alternative dispute resolution mechanisms as well as instituting an efficient and transparent results management process,” the network said.
Zimbabwe’s founding tenets are rooted in respect for the Constitution, the rule of law, fundamental human rights and freedoms, diverse cultural, religious and traditional values, gender equality, good governance and regular elections, stemming from the election results of 1980 that led to the transition to Independence.
Despite the country conducting regular elections every five (5) years, ZESN emphasized the need for the government and political parties to establish an environment conducive to upholding the basic tenets of democracy.
“This includes promoting a multi-party democratic political system; conducting credible elections; enhancing the rights of all political parties and citizens; and promoting transparency, justice, accountability and responsiveness.
“Elections play a pivotal role in allowing the electorate to select leaders for governance and decision-making positions,” the network said.
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.
“Happy 44th Independence Zimbabwe, Let us honour the spirit of freedom and unity as we celebrate our nation’s independence,” the network said.
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