Africa
Monitors Want Timely Run-off
By Afrol News 5/5/08
May 6, 2008 - 11:52:58 AM

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.