4.3. Freedoms of Assembly, Association and Expression: Campaigns and Gatherings Section 58 of the Constitution provides for the, Freedoms of Assembly and Association. The ZHRC team observed campaigns that took place prior to the primary elections in areas including; Gokwe North and South Constituencies, Kwekwe Central, Zvimba West, Chegutu West and Masvingo North Constituencies. In all the campaigning sessions that were observed by ZHRC, the aspiring candidates for the different positions were given an opportunity address the electorate in one meeting. ZHRC commends ZANU PF for creating an equal playing field for the candidates. ZHRC also commends ZANU PF for continuously conveying the message of peace amongst candidates and the electorate. They were encouraged to vote peacefully and to respect each other throughout the processes. In Mashonaland West Province, Matebeleland South Province and Midlands Provinces, aspiring candidates were following party rules on campaigning together without denigrating each other and were given equal opportunity to launch their manifestos respectively. However, there were incidences of hate speech which were noted in Marondera Central Constituency, Highfield 1 East Constituency and Gokwe North Constituency, where statements such as “Pasi naChamisa”, “Pasi na Mugabe and G-40” were uttered. The use of inflammatory slogans has the potential of inciting political violence amongst political parties. This violates the national objectives enshrined under section 10 of the Constitution which stipulates that the State, and every person, including juristic persons, and every institution and agency of government at every level, must promote national unity, peace and stability. ZHRC monitors witnessed citizens exercising their freedom of expression. For instance in Manicaland Province (Dangamvura polling station) and Harare Metropolitan Province (Highfield polling station) in particular, the electorate would constantly refer to the “New Dispensation” as having created an opportunity for everyone to express themselves freely. In Constituencies such as Kambuzuma, people would openly challenge the Constituency Coordinator over irregularities in the processes and insisted on having their grievances addressed. Page 9 of 22