Poorly Managed Electoral Processes Can Trigger Conflict Warns Sadc

The Sadc Election Observer Mission (SEOM) has called on the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) to have dialogue with all stakeholders to resolve disagreements to produce a properly managed election. The SEOM also warned that a poorly managed election could trigger conflict. Head of the Sadc Election Observer Mission (SEOM) Tete Antonio said on Saturday,

At this initial stage of the mission’s observation process, we also take note of some of the concerns raised by stakeholders regarding the following issues:

• The need for greater transparency regarding the storage and distribution of electoral materials;
• The need for continuous consultations between ZEC and stakeholders on the measures for securing printed ballot materials and other related electoral inputs;
• The need for continuous dialogue on the issue of the design, inspection of printed ballots;
• The need for the timeous provision of the BVR voters roll in a format that conforms with the Constitution and the law.

While the mission will continue to engage the ZEC to seek clarity on these and other related matters, we also urge the aggrieved parties to follow the law in seeking redress…We appreciate that the process of legal and constitutional reform can be delicate and will often require wide consultation and may not always be to the satisfaction of all stakeholders.

…After more than a decade of estrangement from the international community, we cannot overemphasise the critical importance of Zimbabwe securing the confidence of its international partners to enable the revival of the economy and the consolidation of its democratic gains.

…Democratic elections, if properly managed and when anchored upon consensus-based rules and international human rights principles, can contribute significantly to peace and stability. Conversely, poorly managed electoral processes can serve as triggers of conflict.

More: Sunday Mail

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