ZESN, a network of 38 non-governmental organizations, had
observed all aspects of the 29 March 2008 harmonized elections. More than a month
after the polls, the presidential elections results were made public last week.
For the first time in his 28-year-old rule, President Robert Mugabe was
defeated by his opponent, Morgan Tsvangirai, the candidate of the main
opposition Movement for Democratic Change. Mr Tsvangirai polled 47.9% of the
votes, compared to Mr Mugabe's 43.2%.
Since none of the candidates secured more than 50% of the
votes, a re-run become a necessity.
"This is a clear circumstance that will necessitate an
electoral run-off in terms of Section 110 of the Electoral Act, we urge the ZEC
to ensure that said run-off is undertaken within 21 days as is outlined by the
Electoral Act," ZESN Chairperson, Noel Kututwa said.
"The law provides that ‘where two or more candidates
are nominated and no candidate receives a majority of the total number of valid
votes cast, a second election” must be held within 21 days after the previous
election."
ZESN vowed to continue to play its role in the observation
of this election and the provision of independent information to all
stakeholders as well as deploy its long and short-term observers across the
country.
It however cautions that duly accredited observers be
allowed to freely continue observing the election process.
"ZESN will be keeping a close watch on the situation
and calls on the responsible authorities to guarantee the security of
observers. ZESN also call on ZEC to ensure the invitation and accreditation of
all local and international groups accredited to observe the 29 March poll is
extended to cover this second round," Mr Kututwa said, calling on the need
for "Zimbabwe to adhere to and implement minimum conditions set out in
Southern African Development Community Principles and Guidelines Governing
Democratic Elections in this re-run and all subsequent elections."
The network also called for zero tolerance on the prevailing
political violence and asked all political parties to publicly denounce
violence.
It is still unclear as to whether Mr Tsvangirai will
participate in the re-run. His party had taken its stance on the issue but is
now waiting for Mr Tsvangirai to finalize.
Tsvangirai and other key party figures have been
coordinating affairs outside Zimbabwean borders. They are contemplating on so
many challenges, including how to run a campaign in a volatile atmosphere
characterized by killings and intimidation of opposition activists.
Last week, the deputy Information Minister Bright Matonga
said the constitution requires a second round to be held no sooner than 21 days
from the announcement of the results, and no later than a year. Matonga said
the commission deserves the right to schedule a suitable date.
