Prof. Attahiru Jega, the former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has agreed to take the helm of the Carter Centre’s Election Observation Mission for the upcoming elections in Zimbabwe.

The distinguished former INEC leader has been selected by the Centre to lead their mission, which is set to monitor Zimbabwe’s election on August 23 and also facilitate the alignment of the polls, as reported….CONTINUE READIND

The mission’s primary objective is to evaluate the election’s preparations and the overall electoral landscape. This encompasses various aspects such as election administration, campaign activities, representation of women and ethnic minorities, the role of social media, dispute resolution mechanisms, and other facets of the election process.

The Centre, in an official statement, outlined that the core team for this mission consists of eight international experts along with two national experts situated in Harare.

“As of the first week of August, fifteen long-term observers have arrived in Zimbabwe and dispersed across the nation. On August 18, short-term observers will join them to cover polling, counting, and tabulation activities on Election Day.

This international team is marked by its diversity, incorporating experienced observers and experts from nearly 30 countries, including various nations from the southern African region,” the statement affirmed.

The inception of the Carter Centre’s mission took place in late July, subsequent to an invitation extended by the Zimbabwean authorities. The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission provided accreditation for the Centre’s observers.

Upon receiving the invitation, Prof. Jega expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Centre’s mission for Zimbabwe’s August 23 elections.

He encouraged all Zimbabweans, encompassing political party members, candidates, and voters, to manifest their commitment to democracy and peaceful electoral proceedings.