Zimbabwe election credibility questioned by vote observers

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【Summary】Foreign poll observers have raised concerns about the credibility of Zimbabwe's recent elections. Issues such as the canning of opposition rallies, denial of accreditation to foreign media, missing voters' names, biased state media, and voter intimidation were cited as factors that tainted the election. While some observers acknowledged that the voting process was conducted peacefully, they highlighted significant issues that impacted the election's credibility and transparency.

FutureCar Staff Aug 25, 2023 5:38 PM PT

Zimbabwe election credibility questioned by vote observers

Foreign poll observers have raised concerns about the recent presidential and legislative elections in Zimbabwe, stating that they did not meet regional and international standards. These concerns cast doubt on the credibility of the tense vote.

Regional and international observers identified various issues that marred the election. These included the suppression of opposition rallies, the denial of accreditation to foreign media outlets, the absence of voters' names at polling stations, biased state media, and voter intimidation.

Fabio Massimo Castaldo, the head of the European Union observer mission, expressed disappointment with the election, stating that it "fell short of many regional and international standards." He also highlighted the prevalence of violence and intimidation, which created a climate of fear.

Amina Mohamed, chair of the Commonwealth observer mission from Kenya, acknowledged that the voting process was generally conducted peacefully. However, she noted that there were significant issues that affected the election's credibility and transparency.

Nevers Mumba, the head of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) delegation and a former Zambian vice president, criticized certain aspects of the election. He stated that they did not meet the requirements of Zimbabwe's constitution, electoral act, and the SADC principles and guidelines for democratic elections. This rebuke from the SADC, which typically endorses polls in member countries, is uncommon.

The ruling ZANU-PF party responded angrily to the findings from Western countries, dismissing them as "sanctimonious notions" from former colonial powers who have no right to lecture Zimbabwe on democracy. Party spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa criticized Nevers Mumba, describing him as a biased "preacher."

Despite the criticisms, Mutsvangwa defended the voting process, acknowledging imperfections but denying any ill will. He emphasized that while they may not be perfect, there was no malicious intent behind their flaws.