ZESN - Promoting Democratic Elections in Zimbabwe 19. Recommendations Having observed the entire electoral cycle for the 2018 harmonised elections, and noting the existing gaps in electoral law and practice, ZESN makes the following recommendations for consideration by different electoral stakeholders. Table 20: ZESN Recommendations Recommendation 1. Legal Framework 1.1 Need for a comprehensive review of Zimbabwe's electoral framework. An allinclusive electoral reform committee should be set up to deliberate on political, administrative and legal reforms that are needed to enhance the credibility of Zimbabwe's electoral processes. Purpose Targeted Institutions To create credible framework for elections which incorporate the diversity of interests from different electoral stakeholders including women, youth and PWDs. The Government of Zimbabwe, Parliament, Independent Commissions supporting democracy, Political Parties, Civil Society Organizations 1.2 Ratify and domesticate international legal frameworks that relate to electoral processes, for example The African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (ACDEG) To enhance alignment of the electoral legislation with the continental standards. The Government of Zimbabwe 1.3 Institute comprehensive and timeous electoral law reform that addresses existing flaws, gaps and/or inadequacies in the administration conduct of elections. To fully align electoral laws with the Constitution Parliament of Zimbabwe 1.4 Add and enforce punitive measures for those who contravene the electoral Code of Conduct. To provide legal basis for prosecuting those who offend the electoral code of conduct Zimbabwe Electoral Commission 1.5 Strengthen independence of the Chapter 12 Institutions and remove all forms of executive interference. To increase stakeholders confidence in the Commissions The Government of Zimbabwe 1.6 Institute mechanisms in the electoral laws that ensure that the right to vote is extended to all citizens including those imprisoned and in the Diaspora. To fully align electoral laws with the Constitution Parliament of Zimbabwe, The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission 66 REPORT ON THE 30 JULY 2018 HARMONISED ELECTIONS ZESN