INDEPENDENT election watchdog, Zimbabwe Election Support Network (Zesn) has launched roadshows to promote tolerance among political parties and their supporters ahead of the August 23 polls.

Zesn launched the Vote in Peace campaign roadshows at Nkayi business centre, Matabeleland North on Friday before heading to Gokwe and Magunje in Midlands and Mashonaland West provinces, respectively, the following day.

“The roadshows were held in rural areas in line with the Zesn communication strategy which is centred on serving geographically marginalised communities and communities of interest,” Zesn said in a statement.

“The campaigns are amplifying constitutional provisions on the holding of elections.

“Section 155(1)(a) and (d) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe provides that elections, which must be held regularly, and referendums must be peaceful, free and fair and must be free from violence and other electoral malpractices.”

There have been pockets of political violence across the country as the nation marches towards the harmonised elections.

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President Emmerson Mnangagwa has pledged to ensure peace prevails during the polls, but critics doubt his sincerity as some Zanu PF supporters have been linked to acts of political violence.

“The objective of the roadshows was to ensure continuity in educating and informing the over 5 000 people combined in attendance on the importance of fostering peace before, during and after elections as well as to mobilise citizens to go and vote in peace in the harmonised elections,” Zesn added.

“Quiz shows to ascertain the citizens’ knowledge on electoral processes were conducted at various intervals, where audiences, who gave correct answers, were given Zesn branded wrappers and caps inscribed #YourVoteIsYourRight and Vote in Peace.”

Zimbabwe’s elections have perennially been disputed largely owing to violence and intimidation.
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