concerning ZANU PF political party members unfairly discriminating against community members from other political parties in receiving food aid or Presidential inputs. The following are some of the vote buying incidents conducted by ZANU PF political party members observed by or reported to the Commission: 3.10.1 ZHRC observed at U9C and Grain Marketing Board in Macheke, the distribution of rice packaged in bags written “COFCO Corporation, China Aid” to ZANU PF members at ZANU PF rallies. 3.10.2 The same trend was noted in Masvingo North, Zaka West and Central Constituencies where rice was distributed only at ZANU PF campaign gatherings. Therefore, even though the food was supposed to be equally distributed amongst all needy community members, only ZANU PF members mainly wearing ZANU PF regalia benefited from the programme. 3.10.3 Another incident reported to the ZHRC was in Murehwa South Constituency, where interviewed citizens informed the ZHRC that ZANU PF candidate Mr. Joel Biggie Matiza and his campaign team were buying votes through the distribution of Presidential inputs only at ZANU PF campaign gatherings. 3.10.4 In Hwedza South Constituency, ZHRC attended a ZANU PF rally and observed a lorry stocked with agriculture inputs offloading and the beneficiary list was compiled at the same rally. The ZHRC produced separate and more detailed investigative reports on these matters.19 3.11 Participation of Traditional Leaders in Politics The Traditional Leadership institution is valued and recognised in the Constitution. Traditional Leaders are responsible for performing the cultural, customary and traditional functions of a Chief, Head Person or Village Head for his or her community.20 Thus, Traditional Leaders are accountable for the promotion of sound 19 See ZHRC website www.zhrc.org.zw for detailed investigative reports 20 Section 280(2) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No.20) 2013. Page 29 of 55