SADC’s guidelines on election system in Southern Africa: case study of Zimbabwe (2018 elections )

Author

Kambudzi, Mufaro

Title

SADC’s guidelines on election system in Southern Africa: case study of Zimbabwe (2018 elections )

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the implementation of the Southern African Development Community's (SADC) guidelines on election systems in Zimbabwe's 2018 elections. Drawing upon policy implementation theory, the study employed a qualitative research approach
and a case study research design. A sample of 20 participants was selected using nonprobability sampling techniques, specifically purposive and convenience sampling methods. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with the participants. The study's findings
shed light on various significant themes related to the first objective, indicating key areas of concern within Zimbabwe's electoral system. These themes included voter registration and accessibility, highlighting potential barriers and challenges faced by individuals in
registering to vote and accessing polling stations. Additionally, the study revealed insights into electoral conduct and fairness, exploring issues such as transparency, accountability, and the prevention of electoral malpractices. The theme of participation and engagement emerged, providing valuable insights into the level of citizens' involvement and active participation in the electoral process. For the second objective, the study uncovered themes such as stakeholders' perceptions of electoral observation, offering valuable insights into
their assessments of the effectiveness, credibility, and impartiality of observation mechanisms. The assessment of electoral dispute resolution mechanisms provided crucial insights into stakeholders' perceptions of the fairness, efficiency, and effectiveness of processes used to resolve electoral disputes. The study also highlighted the role of the media in promoting transparency and fairness during elections, emphasizing its influence on
public perceptions and trust. Finally, the study identified limited political will and inadequate resources and capacity as challenges, underscoring the need for increased commitment, resources, and capacity-building efforts to overcome these obstacles and improve the overall electoral system in Zimbabwe. The study provides recommendations, including the allocation of sufficient resources and capacity building for electoral processes,
fostering political will to ensure impartiality, fairness, and transparency, strengthening electoral laws and regulations, enhancing collaboration between government agencies and civil society organizations, and conducting regular evaluations and assessments of electoral processes to identify areas for improvement and implement necessary reforms.

Date

June 2024

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

SADC’s guidelines

Election system

Southern Africa

2018 Elections

Supervisor

Dr. Chipaike