up to 3hours to cast their vote. Opening, closing of polls and counting
ballots was in accordance with the Electoral Act.
3.5.3. The right to vote should be enjoyed by all Zimbabweans including
special interest groups such as women, the elderly and women with
babies. It was noted that this group was made to vote first which was
commendable on the part of ZEC. However, the ZHRC noted that as
raised in its previous monitoring reports, some of the venues were
not accessible to persons with disabilities and the elderly. It was
observed there were steep steps at some school voting venues.
3.5.4. There was a visible absence of female candidates, in violation of the
Zimbabwean Constitution provision on gender equality, as well as
SADC Protocol on Gender providing for the 50-50 parity on
parliamentary representation.
3.5.5. The absence of provisions on braille in the Electoral law, made it
impossible for the visually impaired to vote unassisted. Equally the
law did not include the voting of those in the diaspora and prisoners
as highlighted in previous reports by the ZHRC.
3.6.
Conclusion
The 2018 harmonised elections have been a mixed bag. Whilst this election
can be hailed as one of the most peaceful elections post 2000, the ZHRC’s
findings point to challenges in fulfilling the right to vote as provided for in the
Constitution. Some citizens of Zimbabwe were subjected to conditions that
made it impossible for them to enjoy their human rights in full as they were
exposed to intimidation and threats.
3.7.
Recommendations
3.7.1. Zimbabwe Electoral Commission
To perfect the voters roll and polling stations well on time to avoid
confusion and redirection of voters.
To make sure polling stations are accessible and friendly to all people
including people with disabilities.