The legal framework According to its 2013 Constitution (as amended), Zimbabwe is a unitary, democratic and sovereign republic founded on values and principles of constitutionalism, the rule of law, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, cultural diversity including religious and traditional values, good governance and recognition of its liberation struggle. In particular, Zimbabwe’s Constitution stipulates: a multi-party democratic political system; an electoral system based on universal adult suffrage and equality of votes; free, fair and regular elections; adequate representation of the electorate; the orderly transfer of power following elections; respect for the rights of all political parties; the separation of powers; transparency, justice, accountability and responsiveness; and respect for the people of Zimbabwe, from whom the authority to govern is derived. The Constitution guarantees equal citizenship and fundamental rights and freedoms, including the freedoms of expression, assembly and association, without discrimination. Zimbabwean citizens of at least 18 years of age are guaranteed political rights to vote in secret and (subject to further age and other requirements) to stand for office. Citizens are further guaranteed political rights to political party formation and related peaceful activity. The following national legislation provides for the legal and regulatory framework for the conduct of the elections:        The Constitution of Zimbabwe 2013 Electoral Act (Chapter 2:13) Electoral Regulations Political Parties (Finance) Act (Chapter 2:11) Public Order and Security Act (Chapter 11:17) Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (Chapter 10:27) The Judicial College Act 1999 Zimbabwe is a member of intergovernmental organisations including the United Nations, the African Union and the Southern African Development Community. On 9 May 2018, Zimbabwe expressed interest in re-admission to The Commonwealth.3 Zimbabwe has voluntarily accepted international obligations and commitments relevant to democratic governance, including the conduct of elections, with a view to realisation of the fundamental norm that the will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of government. These are stipulated in the following instruments, among others:   3 The Constitutive Act of the African Union The African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights Accordingly, the Commonwealth’s values are relevant in the Group’s assessment of these elections. 13