A new constitution of Zimbabwe should include, among other things, the principles governing the systems of representation for the various elected bodies of the state. The electoral systems need to be balanced with specific functions given to each body. For example, a ceremonial head of state may be indirectly elected, whereas an executive head independent of parliament should be elected using a system of majority vote from the electorate (gathering as much support as possible from the voters)…………. : more

In democratic polities, voting is the supreme act of citizen participation in politics and its processes. In fact, voting is one of the ‘procedural minima’ of democracy. Granted there are numerous ways and methods of participation but voting is easily the most visible and one of the most effective methods of ‘speaking truth to power.’ The importance of elections in a democracy is seen through the opportunity citizens have to pick leaders of their choice to represent them in governance structures. Alexander Hamilton (1962), observed that “A share in the sovereignty of the state, which is exercised by the citizens at large in voting at elections, is one of the most important rights of the subject, and in a republic ought to stand foremost in the estimation of the law.”……….. : more

The Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) a coalition of 30 organizations formed to co-ordinate activities amongst these organizations focusing on elections and electoral support in Zimbabwe…. : more

This is a review by the Zimbabwe Election Support Network (“ZESN”) of the proposed amendments to Zimbabwe’s legislation on the management and conduct of elections in the country. The Electoral Amendment Bill, 2011…. : more

The Parliament of Zimbabwe is attempting to make changes to the Electoral Act (Chapter 2:13). The Electoral Amendment Bill, 2001, currently before Parliament, seeks to make several changes to the existing law with a view to promoting free and fair elections. This document by ZESN seeks to explain the changes that have been proposed and make recommendations on how to improve the legal framework for lections in Zimbabwe. : more

“It is the fundamental right and duty of the Zimbabwean people to make a constitution by themselves and for themselves—and that the process must be owned and driven by the people and must be inclusive and democratic.” Article V1 of the Global Political Agreement The Global political agreement (GPA) signed in 2008 mandated the inclusive government to embark on a constitution reform process……….. : more

The year 2011 brought about its own challenges and opportunities. Having celebrated ten years of existence in the preceeding year ZESN. : more

As part of is overall observation effort and in advance of the Harmonised elections (anticipated in 2013), the Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) conducted an analysis of the list of polling stations used for the 16 March 2013 Constitutional Referendum…: more

Since the installation of the Inclusive Government in 2009, Zimbabwe has been locked in a fragile and uncertain transition but is now at its most critical juncture with decisive elections looming in the next twelve months….: more