5.1 The ZHRC faced resource constraints to carry out a proper pre-election period monitoring exercise. The teams were therefore only dispatched into the field two days before the by-elections when resources became available. As a result time was inadequate to form an accurate analysis on the protection of human rights and civil liberties of all citizens in the affected areas, including conducting of campaigns freely and peacefully as well as access to media on the part of all stakeholders as provided for in the Bill of Rights (Constitution of Zimbabwe (Amendment No. 20 of 2013). 5.2 The pre-election period was meant to be focused on the observance of the following rights and freedoms that are enshrined in the Bill of Rights; freedom of movement and residence (section 66); freedom of assembly and association (section 58); freedom of expression and freedom of the media (section 61); access to information (section 62); and political rights (section 67) that is the right to make political choices freely. 5.3 The ZHRC observers had discussions with election agents and candidates to determine the challenges faced during the pre-election period. Most candidates complained of limited media coverage in the State media and alleged that the ZANU PF party monopolised ZBC Radio, ZTV and state owned print media. 5.4 Section 40 (1) (a) of the Electoral Act calls upon ZEC to provide adequate, accurate and unbiased voter education and to ensure that voter education by other persons is adequate and not misleading or biased towards a certain political party. The process of voter education was conducted within a week of proclamation of elections in line with the Electoral Act. 5.5 According to some of the electorate interviewed in the constituencies the preelection period was generally peaceful and free of violence except for Hurungwe West Constituency where there were allegations of violence perpetrated against those viewed as sympathetic to the independent candidate. An investigation was carried out in response to complaints received by the ZHRC in terms of sections 243 (1) (d) and (f) of the Constitution. A report was prepared by the ZHRC on its findings informed by the investigative visit prior to the election date. Page 8 of 15