ZESN Raises Concerns Over Proposed Electoral Changes

The Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) has expressed strong opposition to proposed changes in the country’s Electoral Act. These changes could shift voter registration from the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) to the Civil Registration Department (CRD).

The government is currently drafting a Constitutional Amendment Bill. It includes a provision that would transfer the responsibility of voter registration to the CRD, which already collects personal and biometric data. Under this proposal, CRD would manage the voters’ roll.

ZESN argues that this shift could undermine electoral transparency and democratic progress. In a recent report, the organization emphasized the importance of keeping voter registration under ZEC.

The 2009 reforms that created an independent electoral commission were a major step forward, according to ZESN. The report cautioned against reversing these gains by handing voter registration duties to the CRD.

“Voter registration is a cornerstone of democracy, determining who can vote and who can’t,” ZESN stated. The group advocates for retaining the current system, managed by ZEC, which has operated under the Constitution since its establishment.

The proposed shift to CRD would allow the department to automatically register voters based on data collected during national identity card applications. ZESN, however, sees this as a potential setback.

Instead of transferring responsibilities, ZESN believes the focus should be on improving the existing system. Key issues such as the timely release of the voters’ roll have been contentious and should be prioritized.

ZESN also raised concerns about the frequency of constitutional amendments. In the past decade, the Constitution has been altered twice. This instability, they warn, could weaken ZEC’s ability to conduct free and fair elections.

The report further stresses the importance of ZEC maintaining control over voter registration. This would help ensure independence and foster trust in the electoral process.

ZESN advocates for a holistic approach to electoral reform. Instead of piecemeal amendments, the government should adopt comprehensive reforms that align with both the Constitution and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) guidelines.

The group suggests that ZEC should remain responsible for compiling the voter’s roll but collaborate with CRD to update it automatically. This would include removing deceased individuals from the register.

ZESN urges the government to resist further constitutional amendments that could destabilize ZEC’s operations. The stability of electoral processes is crucial for the credibility of elections in Zimbabwe.

ZESN’s report stresses the need for caution and the preservation of ZEC’s independence in the electoral process. A balanced approach, they argue, is essential for the future of Zimbabwe’s democracy.

The debate continues as the government moves forward with the drafting of the Constitutional Amendment Bill. However, ZESN’s call for transparency and careful consideration is likely to influence the discussion moving forward.