3.3.
CAMPAIGN RALLIES AND USE OF HATE SPEECH
The ZHRC attended rallies called by the different political parties across all the
10 provinces. These were generally held peacefully with a few cases of
electoral malpractices. The ZHRC however, noted that in some instances, the
use of hate speech and songs carrying hate messages were part and parcel of
campaign rallies. As has been highlighted this affects the way that parties relate
to each other and has the potential of causing violence. In some instances, the
hate speech, was viewed by the ZHRC as toxic, especially to the female
candidates and ZEC Chairperson.
3.4.
COMPLAINTS RECEIVED
A total of 76 complaints were recorded by ZHRC monitors who were in the field
as well as through hotlines and toll-free lines. The ZHRC received cases from
individuals who complained of intimidation, threats and physical violence.
Whilst every effort is being made to investigate the cases received, the ZHRC
remains concerned with the sheer numbers of allegations which should not
arise in a democratic and peaceful nation that Zimbabwe is.
3.5.
OVERVIEW OF THE ELECTION DAY
3.5.1. The right to vote in accordance with section 67 of the Constitution is
an important tenet of democracy. The ZHRC congratulates ZEC for
holding the elections throughout the country and for opening up the
process, in the spirit of transparency, to both local and foreign
observers. The elections were held peacefully throughout the
country.
3.5.2. For the improvement of future elections, the ZHRC wishes to
highlight the following shortcomings noted on election day. Some of
the Provinces reported cases of general disorganisation on the part
of the electoral management body with some polling stations missing
and voters having to be redirected. Some polling stations did not
have adequate lighting especially in tents which slowed the voting
process. The process was slow with some voters having to wait for