SECTION IV: STRATEGIC DIRECTION 2017 TO 2019
4. Overall Strategy Goal
To contribute to the promotion and enforcement of fundamental human rights and freedoms during the
electoral process for free, fair and credible elections
4.1. Strategic Goals
Strategic
Goal 1
P1
To strengthen
observance and
compliance of
human rights by
duty bearers in
the electoral
process.
Strategic
Goal 2
Strategic
Goal 3
Strategic
Goal 4
Strategic
Goal 5
1
To facilitate and
operationalise an
effective redress
mechanism for
election related
human rights
violations
To review and
recommend the
alignment of all
laws that impact
on elections and
human rights to
the Constitution
TEP 1
P1
To promote
informed citizen
participation in
the 2018
electoral process
Increased
stakeholder
engagement
during the
electoral process
Cross cutting themes: gender equality, operating environment, sustainability, technology,
youth participation, conflict sensitivity, disability rights
Figure 2: Strategic Goals
4.1.1.
Strategic Goal 1: To strengthen observance and compliance of human rights by duty
bearers in the electoral process.
Objectives
The objectives for monitoring elections by the Commission are to:
1. Assess the observance of human rights and freedoms during elections with particular reference
to the realisation of the rights and freedoms enshrined in Section 67 of the Constitution;
2. Fulfil the obligations of election monitoring as stated in Section 40G of the Electoral Act and;
3. Ensure the political environment is conducive to a peaceful, fair and credible election.
Context
Assess the observance of human rights and freedoms
Zimbabwe has the most highly contested elections compared to other countries in the Southern Africa
region. The retention and gaining of political power has dominated the political landscape in the country
taking focus away from the more pertinent developmental issues. Most, if not all, of the elections held
in Zimbabwe since the 1990s have been heavily contested and characterized by violence and human
rights violations culminating in legitimise of those elected into office being called into question. Not
only has some of these elections have been characterised by violence but also by unequal playing field
and selective application of laws. Laws have been crafted that are inconsistent with international and
regional standards governing the conduct of credible elections and consequently grossly violet the rights
of those participating in elections. Genuine free and fair elections are a necessary and fundamental
component of sustained efforts to protect and promote human rights. All citizens have the right to
participate in government and public affairs through the casting of votes or by being elected through
free and fair elections held periodically. However, participation cannot be effectively exercised unless
a wide range of other rights and fundamental freedoms are excised without discrimination.11
11
Manual on Human Rights Monitoring UN p4
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