By Staff writer
A local political party, the Zimbabwe Independent Movement (ZIM) has reiterated its calls for electoral reforms in the country.
According to ZIM, in the absence of electoral reforms, the 2028 elections must not proceed.
They believe, only puppets working in cahoots with the ruling ZANU PF, will participate in such an election.
ZANU PF has ruled the country since independence in 1980.
However, the revolutionary party has been accused of massive rigging and manipulating the system in their favour.
ZIM national organizing secretary Richard Musiyadzaanikwa said as a party, they have taken a bold stance to push for the electoral reforms before the 2028 elections.
“It is our firm stance that “No Reforms, No Election” as we approach the pivotal 2028 national elections,” he said.
“This important position advocates for the implementation of significant electoral reforms to ensure that Zimbabwe moves towards a more democratic, just, and prosperous future.
“Historically, Zimbabwe’s political landscape has been shaped by the burdens of colonialism, the trials of liberation struggles, and ongoing socio-economic challenges.
“This context necessitates that we urgently address our electoral processes to reflect the will and aspirations of the Zimbabwean populace.”
Musiyadzaanikwa added: “I firmly believe that electoral reforms are essential to guaranteeing free, fair, and transparent elections.”
History of disputed elections
Elections in Zimbabwe have often been marred in controversy with opposition parties crying foul.
History of disputed elections dates back to the early 2000s after the formation of the Movement for Democratic Change(MDC).
The 2002 presidential elections pitting the late Robert Mugabe of ZANU PF and Morgan Tsvangirai (MDC) marked the genesis of disputed elections in the country.
Subsequent elections in the country have also been disputed and spilled into the courts.
Notably, the 2008 and 2018 elections stand out as the most disputed in the country’s 44 year history.
Opposition political parties have in the past called for the reform of the electoral system in Zimbabwe.
And Musiyadzaanikwa added his voice to the growing calls for the reforms to be implemented.
“The call for ‘No Reforms, No Election’ is not merely a slogan,” he added.
“It is a rallying cry for all Zimbabweans to demand better governance, accountability, and respect for individual rights.”
“The urgency for meaningful political change could not be more pronounced as we prepare for
the future.”
ZIM says there is need to restore electoral integrity through creating an environment for free,fair and transparent elections.
They also called for the strengthening of institutions to promote accountability and protection of citizens’s rights.
Musiyadzaanikwa further said; “Furthermore, the ZIM advocates for the following critical reforms: Diaspora Vote: Ensuring that Zimbabweans in the diaspora have the right to participate in the electoral process.
“Presidential Accountability: Implementing measures to hold the presidency accountable to the
people.
“Public Office Accountability: Cultivating a culture of transparency and accountability for all
public officials.”
