The Election Resource Centre (ERC) acknowledges the resignation of President of Zimbabwe, Mr Robert Mugabe. While Zimbabweans celebrate this new development they should not lose sight of the inevitability of an election that must ultimately result in a democratic government which remains the only constitutional method that allows citizens to choose their preferred leaders. The ERC insists that a smooth transition must be characterised by a clear road map towards democratic elections in Zimbawe. ERC calls upon any future authorities to focus on:
- Strengthening state institutions such as the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission and the Zimbabwe Republic Police.
- Immediate alignment of electoral laws with the Constitution of Zimbabwe
- Creation of a secure political environment that allows citizens to freely express themselves
Only then can the current transition truly benefit Zimbabweans who have been yearning to freely express themselves in democratic processes without fear or favour. Zimbabweans must not only register to vote in the ongoing Biometric Voter Registration process but continuously engage and hold those in authority accountable.
Source: Election Resource Centre (ERC)
