Introduction
As Zimbabwe readies itself for the new polling station based and biometric voter registration for
the 2018 harmonised elections, it is imperative that efforts and resources are channelled towards
ensuring that all eligible voters are registered so that they are able to vote come 2018. The
polling based voters’ roll and the implementation of the proposed Bio-metric Voter Registration
system (BVR) requires that the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) conduct a fresh voter
registration process. An early registration process will go a long way in avoiding reportedly
chaotic registration process that characterized 2013 harmonized elections. ZESN undertakes to
come up with projections of the Zimbabwean population aged 18 and above in 2018. In order to
support the registration process, it is important that ZESN has an idea of the approximate number
of Zimbabweans that will be eligible for voter registration prior to the 2018 harmonized
elections.
Problem Statement
ZESN is cognizant of the fact that a comprehensive voters’ roll contributes greatly to the
credibility of any election. One of the lessons learnt in 2013 is that a significant number of
potential voters were not registered due to insufficient information on voter registration
procedures and requirements, inadequate funding, lack of adequate personnel and the slow
processing of registration queues in some areas such as Harare. In light of these challenges,
ZESN continues to call upon ZEC to put measures in place for effective discharge of the new
voter registration system, allowing adequate time for voter registration so as to ensure that the
registration process is all-inclusive and that potential voters are not disenfranchised.
In terms of Section 239 of the Constitution, the sole responsibility of registering voters and
compiling a voters’ roll rests with ZEC. The Commission therefore compiles voters’ rolls and
registers; and ensures the proper custody and maintenance of such. At the centre of political
contestation in Zimbabwe over the years has been voter registration, compilation of the voters’
roll and access. One key issue raised by stakeholders is alleged bias of partisan landlords and
traditional leaders in the issuance of affidavits to prospective voter registrants aligned to the
opposition parties. Other opposition political parties have raised concerns that prior to the July
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