It was emphasized that the Electoral Commission should recruit capable permanent staff on a non-partisan basis. Other recommendations made include the following: Constitutional Reform It was recommended that the Constitutional and legal framework be reviewed, including pieces of legislation such as the Public Order and Security Act (POSA) as well as the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (AIPPA) which impact on the enjoyment of fundamental rights and freedoms in Zimbabwe. Political Dialogue It was recommended that inter-party dialogue on areas of conflict needs to be encouraged and positively reinforced. It was also agreed that there is need for continuous engagement between political parties and civil society. Key lessons drawn from the Kenyan experience were that there is need to find a solution that works for Zimbabwe. Further, any political agreement reached needs to have a clear implementation framework. It was also recommended that efforts be made by all stakeholders to inculcate a culture of tolerance and respect, a fair political contest as well as electoral conflict management and resolution. III CONCLUSION In conclusion, without the requisite implementation of constitutional and electoral framework, and the creation of an atmosphere in which persons can campaign and vote freely, the aspirations of Zimbabweans for free and fair, credible election will not be realised. ZESN remains committed to advocating for participatory and people-driven democratic processes in the governance of the country and the security of citizens, their enjoyment of freedoms of movement, assembly and association. The Network will continue working for the establishment of a political and social environment that is conducive to holding free and fair elections in Zimbabwe. PROMOTING DEMOCRATIC ELECTIONS IN ZIMBABWE FOR COMMENTS AND FURTHER DETAILS CONTACT Zimbabwe Election Support Network +263 (04) 250735/6 or 703956 zesn@africaonline.co.zw / info@zen.org.zw or visit www.zesn.org.zw 5