ZHRC therefore continuously conveyed messages encouraging the public to use social media channels responsibly and to respect different political views and affiliations. 3.8 Hate Speech The ZHRC attended rallies conducted by different political parties across all the 10 provinces. Overall, the rallies undertaken by the different political parties were held peacefully with a few cases of electoral malpractices such as the use of hate speech in songs and speeches which involved character assassination of opposing candidates. Conduct prohibited by Section 6(c) of the Fourth Schedule to the Electoral Act is inclusive of hate speech in speeches, songs and slogans which incites violence towards any individual or group. The following were amongst the incidences where hate speech was used: 3.8.1 During a ZANU PF rally in Chiredzi District, Masvingo Province the ZHRC monitors heard supporters of ZANU PF singing a song with lyrics stating that “chinja inourayisa”14 3.8.2 At an MDC Alliance rally at Chivhu Stadium, Chikomba West, Mashonaland East Province, the ZHRC heard Presidential Candidate Mr. Nelson Chamisa stating in his speech that “zvingagona here kuti tipe hutungamiriri hwenyika kuna Mnangagwa naChiwenga mbavha dzagara dzichizikanwa”15 3.8.3 Through ZHRC media monitoring reports the ZHRC noted hateful language particularly directed towards female candidates on social media for instance; Dr Thokazani Khupe and Ms. Joana Mamombe were named “mahure”16. Meaning of “chinja” – It is a slogan of MDC Alliance. Therefore, “chinja inourayisa” means if you are a supporter of MDC you can get killed. 14 Meaning of “zvingagona here kuti tipe hutungamiriri wenyika kuna Mnangagwa naChiwenga mbavha dzagara dzichizikanwa” – Is it possible to give leadership of the country to Mnangagwa and Chiwenga who have always been known as thieves. 15 16Meaning of “mahure” – is prostitutes. Page 26 of 55