84 Appendix F integrity and to establish confidence among the electorate that voters could cast a ballot freely without coercion or fear of retribution, and that contestants would compete on a relatively level playing field. As noted in the ZIEOM’s August 1 Preliminary Statement, the pre-election period did not make that mark. Election Day was peaceful and relatively orderly, though problems were noted, which require attention in such close elections. The immediate post-voting period was seriously marred by the actions of security forces on August 1 in Harare and by other acts of repression directed against opposition leaders. In an August 2 joint statement, the principal international observer missions present in Zimbabwe, including ZIEOM, emphasized that, “excessive use of force, including the killing of six people and wounding of 14, is deplorable. Arrests and retribution reported against opposition supporters also cause deep concern.” The ZIEOM therefore calls on all sides to rely on peaceful expression and to avoid acts or threats of retribution against political rivals following the Constitutional Court’s decision. The security forces, meanwhile, must refrain from use of excessive force during this politically sensitive period. The tremendous turnout of voters on Election Day demonstrated their will for a tolerant, peaceful and prosperous country. The country’s political leaders should honor those aspirations and recognize that the divided vote emphasizes the need for reconciliation and inclusive, responsive governance. Moreover, to address the flaws identified in the 2018 electoral process, steps are required to rebuild confidence in electoral institutions; to enhance the mandate and resources available to those bodies that can play a constructive role in investigating human rights violations and in promoting tolerance; and to ensure prompt and serious police investigations of allegations related to politically-motivated violence. Zimbabwe has not yet demonstrated that it has established a tolerant, democratic culture that enables the conduct of elections in which parties are treated equitably and citizens can cast their vote freely. ZIEOM will continue to observe the immediate post-election environment and will issue its final report in the near future detailing specific recommendations for consideration by Zimbabweans as part of their deliberations about adopting a reform agenda.