ZEC says ready for August 23 elections; tells observers it is ‘not influenced by government’

By Xinhua

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) said Wednesday it is ready to conduct the Aug. 23 general elections and encouraged all registered voters to cast their ballots.

In a briefing to election observers, ZEC Chairperson Priscilla Chigumba said the election management body is geared to deliver a free, fair and credible voting process.

“The ZEC has recruited and trained about 150,000 election officers for our harmonious elections and has procured all essential election materials,” the chairperson said.

There will be 12,374 polling stations on election day, Chigumba said, adding that a total of 6.6 million people have registered to vote, constituting 83 percent of the eligible population.

“I would like to inform you that the Commission is ready to conduct the 2023 elections,” she said.

Chigumba also insisted that the commission was indipendent.

“In its operations, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission is not influenced by government, individuals or any other organisations as sometimes alleged. Section 235 of the constitution of Zimbabwe guarantees the commission’s independence,” she said.

Speaking at the same meeting, Zimbabwe Republic Police Commissioner-General Godwin Matanga said the police have implemented measures to ensure that the elections are peaceful.

“As the police, we want to assure all invited and accredited observer missions that their safety during their stay in the country is guaranteed,” Matanga said.

On Aug. 23, Zimbabweans will vote to choose a president, parliamentarians and local government representatives. There are 11 presidential candidates.

The results of the presidential election are announced within five days after voting.