Carter Center Issues Final Report on 2023 Zimbabwean Elections

Source: Carter Center Issues Final Report on 2023 Zimbabwean Elections ATLANTA — The Carter Center today released the final report from its international election observation mission to Zimbabwe’s Aug. 23 harmonized elections. The report concluded that the overall electoral process did not meet Zimbabwe’s regional and international commitments or the democratic aspirations of Zimbabweans. It offers recommendations […]

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Source: Carter Center Issues Final Report on 2023 Zimbabwean Elections

ATLANTA — The Carter Center today released the final report from its international election observation mission to Zimbabwe’s Aug. 23 harmonized elections.

The report concluded that the overall electoral process did not meet Zimbabwe’s regional and international commitments or the democratic aspirations of Zimbabweans. It offers recommendations to the Zimbabwean government to help bring its electoral processes closer in line with international standards for democratic elections.

The Carter Center found that the election took place in a restricted political environment with an unlevel playing field. This limited candidates from competing on equal terms and prevented the expression of the will of Zimbabweans. Election administration lacked independence and transparency in key areas, undermining the credibility of the process. Critical election information, including the final voters’ roll and list of polling stations, was not readily available to stakeholders.

Only modest electoral reforms were enacted before the election, despite government steps to bring the laws into alignment with the constitution. Laws restricting freedoms of speech, movement, and association increased political tensions and polarization among the electorate and intimidated civil society groups leading up to election day. More extensive changes are needed to lift restrictions on fundamental freedoms of speech, expression, and assembly as well as to promote women’s representation in elected offices.

Election day was largely peaceful and administered well by polling staff. However, extensive voting delays caused by ballot shortages in several constituencies, including in some urban wards considered to be opposition strongholds, likely affected voter turnout. Observers reported numerous instances of assisted voting in rural areas, raising concerns that secrecy of the vote may have been compromised.

The postelection period was characterized by several cases of politically motivated violence, surveillance, reported abductions and detentions of opposition party and civil society activists, and other alleged violations of human rights. Recalls of opposition members of parliament and councilors disenfranchised voters in their respective constituencies, contributing to a decline of democracy in Zimbabwe.

Background

On July 29, 2023, the Center deployed an international election observation mission to observe Zimbabwe’s 2023 harmonized elections. The Center assessed the compliance of the electoral process with regional and international obligations and standards for democratic elections, including principles enshrined in national law, the Southern African Development Community Principles and Guidelines Governing Elections, and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, among others. The Carter Center conducted its election observation mission in accordance with the 2005 Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation. Since 1989, The Carter Center has observed more than 115 elections in over 40 countries, including the United States.

Read the final report (PDF) »

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Why soaring tourism is good news for Zimbabwe’s wildlife

Having dropped to as low as 10,000 visitors a year during the pandemic, more than 30,000 entries into the national park were recorded in 2022. Source: Why soaring tourism is good news for Zimbabwe’s wildlife When the COVID-19 pandemic shut down international travel and visits to Zimbabwe’s iconic Hwange National Park plummeted, IFAW had a […]

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Having dropped to as low as 10,000 visitors a year during the pandemic, more than 30,000 entries into the national park were recorded in 2022.

Source: Why soaring tourism is good news for Zimbabwe’s wildlife

When the COVID-19 pandemic shut down international travel and visits to Zimbabwe’s iconic Hwange National Park plummeted, IFAW had a grave concern: Would fewer people moving through the park make it easier for poachers to escape undetected? And, without the income that tourism brings local communities, would poaching seem more appealing?

Lions in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe. Photo: Naudé Heunis / © IFAW

Hwange—home to more than 45,000 elephants, 150 other mammal species, and 400 bird species—is a crucial area for wildlife and a key anchor to the Kavango-Zambezi Trans-Frontier Conservation Area. That’s why it’s a vital part of IFAW’s Room to Roam initiative, which secures connected spaces and safe passage for elephants and other wildlife while fostering harmonious coexistence with people.

In late 2019, IFAW signed a memorandum of understanding with Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) to facilitate financial support and technical expertise in managing these protected areas. Improving tourist camps and infrastructure, such as roads, was always one of the main goals because tourism helps the park and local communities earn an income.

But, just a few months later, the industry came to a halt. IFAW and ZimParks immediately refocused their efforts on preventing poachers from seizing the opportunity to profit from animals’ pain. They significantly increased ranger patrols and improved ranger facilities. The Makona ranger base has now been transformed and not a single elephant poaching has been recorded in the IFAW-supported areas since 2021.

Tourists return to Hwange

Having dropped to as low as 10,000 visitors a year during the pandemic (down from more than 40,000 visitors each year prior to the pandemic), entries into the national park are finally back on an upward trajectory. In 2022, more than 30,000 entries were recorded.

International tourists, eager to reconnect with Zimbabwe’s largest wildlife reserve and experience an African safari, are returning to the iconic park, bringing with them much-needed funding that will help rangers continue to protect wildlife.

Loveness Kudiwa, ZimParks Tourism Manager based at Hwange Main Camp, says the post-COVID resurgence has also seen a new trend—the emergence of a more conscious traveller and a preference for camping and wild spaces.

‘Travellers are keen to avoid crowded spaces and seek exclusive safari experiences. This is a welcome development for a destination like Hwange, which offers an authentic, life-enriching safari experience,’ she said.

Long-term benefits from tourism 

Tourism facilities in and around the park, such as sanitation and camping infrastructure, have undergone much-needed renovation and upgrading.

Enhancing the park’s appeal, IFAW’s partnership with ZimParks ensures visitors know that the park’s wildlife and communities are protected and receive mutual benefit from living alongside each other. The partnership has already rehabilitated several community services, including the Dete Old Age Home, boreholes providing access to potable water, and community gardens.

Phillip Kuvawoga, IFAW’s Landscape Conservation director, said that the ultimate goal is to support sustainable landscapes where human communities and wild animals can thrive together.

‘We must rebuild the tourism sector as a key pillar for conserving natural and cultural heritage,’ he stated.

What Hwange offers tourists

James Kuwanda, a Hwange-based tourism executive, attributed the resurgence to impressive conservation efforts, new tourism investment, and the recent introduction of domestic flight services to Hwange National Park.

‘There is increased publicity about Hwange National Park, and we have seen many developments and a surge in tourism investments. Connectivity has also improved.’

Mandabvu, situated in the northern part of the park, teems with animals and provides the most memorable safari experiences imaginable. The Mandabvu dam has, in recent years, been a magnet for elephants, impalas, lions, zebras, and kudus.

On a recent visit, John Stergianos, a safari lover relaxing at Mandabvu campsite, said, ‘The animals look calm and happy. It is brilliant. We are planning another trip for next year to bring some friends.’

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CATHOLIC BISHOPS : ONE PARTY STATE THROTTLING ZIM

CATHOLIC Bishops yesterday said the unresolved August 2023
election dispute has plunged the lives of ordinary citizens into disarray, amid
a deepening economic meltdown where the majority is struggling to put food on
the table.

Opposition leader Nelso…

CATHOLIC Bishops yesterday said the unresolved August 2023 election dispute has plunged the lives of ordinary citizens into disarray, amid a deepening economic meltdown where the majority is struggling to put food on the table. Opposition leader Nelson Chamisa has refused to accept the results of the August 2023 harmonised elections in which President Emmerson Mnangagwa was declared the winner.

Chamisa’s Blue Movement Another Empty Promise In The Zimbabwean Sea Of Political Chaos

Source: Chamisa’s Blue Movement Another Empty Promise In The Zimbabwean Sea Of Political Chaos When Nelson Chamisa announced his resignation from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) last month, citing infiltration by Zanu PF and other reasons, many of his supporters were left in shock and confusion. What would become of their beloved leader, who […]

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Source: Chamisa’s Blue Movement Another Empty Promise In The Zimbabwean Sea Of Political Chaos

When Nelson Chamisa announced his resignation from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) last month, citing infiltration by Zanu PF and other reasons, many of his supporters were left in shock and confusion. What would become of their beloved leader, who had given them hope and courage in the face of a ruthless and oppressive regime? Where would they channel their grievances and aspirations for a democratic and prosperous Zimbabwe?

Credit: Kumbirai Thierry Nhamo at https://zealousthierry.art.blog/

Chamisa did not leave them in the dark for long. Within days, he unveiled his new political outfit, a movement of sorts dubbed the “blue movement”, which he claimed was a “citizens-centred” initiative that would mobilize Zimbabweans from all walks of life to demand change and accountability from the government. Some of his overzealous supporters painted the Bulawayo CCC offices blue, and added his portrait on a blue background, as a symbol of his new vision.

But, is this blue movement anything more than a cosmetic change of colours? Does it offer any substantive and realistic solutions to the myriad of problems facing the country? Or is it just another empty promise in the Zimbabwean sea of political chaos, where opposition parties come and go, without making any meaningful impact?

As a commentator, I have always been a keen observer and critic of the political landscape in Zimbabwe. I have witnessed the rise and fall of various opposition parties and movements, some of which had noble intentions, but failed to deliver on their promises, due to lack of strategy, resources, unity, or courage. Others were mere opportunists, who exploited the people’s desperation and frustration, only to abandon them when the going got tough, or when they were co-opted by the ruling party.

I have also studied Chamisa’s political career closely, from his days as a student leader, to his rise within the CCC, to his controversial ascension to the presidency of the party, following the death of Morgan Tsvangirai in 2018. I have admired his charisma, eloquence, and youthful energy, which have endeared him to millions of Zimbabweans, especially among my my fellow young generation. I have also acknowledged his resilience and determination, which have enabled him to withstand numerous challenges and attacks, both from within and outside his party.

However, I have also been disappointed and disillusioned by some of his actions and decisions, which have exposed his weaknesses and flaws, as a leader and as a democrat. I have questioned his sincerity and integrity, when he made contradictory and inflammatory statements, or when he failed to accept defeat, after losing the 2018 presidential election. I have also doubted his wisdom and judgment, when he surrounded himself with sycophants and loyalists, who did not offer him constructive criticism or alternative views, but rather fed his ego and ambition.

Therefore, when I heard of his blue movement, I was not impressed or excited. I saw it as a desperate and futile attempt to salvage his political career, after losing the CCC to his rivals, who had the backing of the courts and the repressive regime. I also saw it as a diversion and a distraction, from the real issues and challenges facing the country, such as the economic crisis, the human rights violations, and the corruption and mismanagement by the government.

I wonder what this blue movement has to offer, that is different or better than what CCC or any other opposition party has already offered. I wonder how this blue movement would mobilize and organize the people, in a peaceful and effective manner, without resorting to violence or provoking the wrath of the state. I also wonder how this blue movement will engage and dialogue with the government, the regional and international community, and other stakeholders, in a constructive and respectful way, without compromising its principles or objectives.

I also wondered how this blue movement would address the internal divisions and conflicts within the opposition, which have weakened and fragmented the democratic forces in the country. I wondered how this blue movement would foster unity and solidarity among the people, across ethnic, regional, religious, and ideological lines, without alienating or antagonizing anyone. I wondered how this blue movement would inspire and empower the people, to take ownership and responsibility of their destiny, without relying on or idolizing any leader.

These are the questions that I believe Chamisa and his blue movement need to answer, if they are serious and sincere about bringing change and transformation to Zimbabwe. These are the questions that I believe the people of Zimbabwe need to ask, before they join or support any political party or movement, that claims to represent their interests and aspirations. These are the questions that I believe we all need to ask ourselves, as we seek to build a better and brighter future for ourselves and our children.

As a social justice activist and writer, I have always advocated for a peaceful, democratic, and inclusive approach to solving the problems facing our country. I have always believed that the only way to fix this mess that we are in, is to hold peaceful demonstrations, petitions, and campaigns, against the corruption, mismanagement, and violations of our human rights, by the government. I have always believed that the only way to achieve this, is to work together, as one people, with one vision, and one voice.

That is why I am not impressed or excited by Chamisa’s blue movement, or any other political party or movement, that does not offer a clear and credible alternative to the status quo. That is why I am not interested in joining or supporting any political party or movement, that does not have a sound and realistic strategy, a solid and sustainable resource base, a united and diverse leadership, and a courageous and committed membership.

That is why I am calling upon all Zimbabweans, who share the same vision and values, to join their forces in creating a genuine and authentic citizens’ movement, that is not based on any colour, symbol, or personality, but on the principles of democracy, human rights, social justice, and good governance. A movement that is not driven by any political agenda, ambition, or affiliation, but by the needs, concerns, and aspirations of the people. A movement that is not dependent on any external or internal donor, sponsor, or patron, but on the contributions, skills, and talents of the people.

A movement that is not afraid or intimidated by any threat or challenge, but that is ready and willing to face and overcome any obstacle. A movement that is not divided or fragmented by any difference or conflict, but that is united and strengthened by its diversity and solidarity. A movement that is not passive or complacent, but that is active and vigilant. A movement that is not waiting or expecting, but that is creating and achieving.

A movement that is not blue, or yellow, or red, or green, or any other colour, but that is Zimbabwean. A movement that is not Chamisa’s, or Mnangagwa’s, or Tsvangirai’s, or Mugabe’s, or anyone else’s, but that is ours. A movement that is not another empty promise, but that is a fulfilled reality.

That is the movement that I want to be part of. That is the movement that I want to write about. That is the movement that I want to see in Zimbabwe.

Kumbirai Thierry Nhamo | Writer

+263780022343

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The reason behind mbinga Wicknell Chivayo’s decision not to gift DJ Levels a big luxurious vehicle

Businessman and philanthropist, Wicknell Chivayo, says DJ Levels could be given a US$25 000 Mercedes Benz C Class but that will depend on DJ Fantan’s approval of such a donation. Chivayo doesn’t appear to be a fan of DJ Levels. “Level handina kumbomuon…

Businessman and philanthropist, Wicknell Chivayo, says DJ Levels could be given a US$25 000 Mercedes Benz C Class but that will depend on DJ Fantan’s approval of such a donation. Chivayo doesn’t appear to be a fan of DJ Levels. “Level handina kumbomuona, paaifeature pamarally, I would see Fantan jumping chichibvisa hembe. “Levels anenge anozvida […]

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