A survey which was commisioned by local civil society groups, We Pay You Deliver (WPYD) has revealed that at least 65% have no confidence that the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) can manage free, fair and credible elections. 3 640 respondents aged 18 and above were interviewed in Bulawayo, Harare, Chitungwiza, Gweru, Mutare and Masvingo between August and October last year. Part of the survey which was titled “The uncertainty of 2018” reads,
More than 65% of the respondents think that the 2018 elections will not be free and fair. Respondents pointed three main indicators of a free and fair election as the independence of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), absence of violence and the ability to campaign freely. The integrity and credibility of an electoral management body in the eyes of the electorate is fundamental in any functioning democracy. Despite this, about 65,7 % do not trust ZEC. Therefore, significant public confidence-building measures should be undertaken by ZEC.
Since the Survey was conducted Justice Priscilla Chigumba replaced Justice Rita Makarau as the chairperson of Zec. Makarau resigned after the fall of former president Robert Mugabe but declined to state why.
More: Newsday
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I am sure even ZEC on its own has no confidence in itself, judging by the unbusiness-like manner in which the chair is articulating election issues… what a shame!