Critical Steps in implementation of BVR
By ZESN
Implementation of Biometric Voter Registration (BVR) system requires careful planning,
preparation and implementation to ensure that is it successfully implemented. Failure to follow
due process in the implementation could jeopardise the process, with devastating consequences
for electoral integrity and credibility.
ZESN is calling for transparency in the various stages of the deployment of BVR system in
Zimbabwe. The continued silence regarding the steps being taken in the adoption and
implementation of the BVR system apart from print media pronouncements is particularly
worrying.
ZESN’s position is that the implementation of BVR requires transparency in processes such as
tendering and procurement in order to enhance confidence, integrity and credibility of the
process. There is need for ZEC to conduct comprehensive stakeholder consultations such as
political parties, the media and CSOs on the BVR system in order to conscientise the electorate
on what is entails as well as busting some negative myths about the system
BVR system accompanied by other electoral reforms has great potential to transform electoral
processes in Zimbabwe. It is therefore imperative for the Government to clarify its position and
clearly spell out the critical steps for the adoption of BVR in light of the limited time before the
2018 elections.
ZESN calls upon ZEC to provide a detailed guideline on the critical steps that will be taken in
the implementation of the BVR system in Zimbabwe as a way to enhance transparency among
stakeholders.
Some of the critical questions which must be addressed to ensure the successful implementation
of the process include; has a feasibility study been conducted? Is there going to be a pilot of the
system as witnessed with the polling station based voter registration? Has a vendor been
identified or is there going to be a tendering process for the BVR equipment? When is the
process going to be rolled out? What is the technical capacity of ZEC to relate with the new
technology? Are there adequate resources to place for the successful implementation of the
BVR?
ZESN’s view is that steps such as conducting a feasibility study, pilot of the BVR, timely
procurement procedures, staff training on use of BVR, setting up of mechanisms for IT support