URGENT APPEAL ON ZIMBABWE

The holding of democratic elections is an important dimension in conflict

prevention, management and resolution. Democratic elections should be

conducted freely and fairly, under a system that ensures in particular, an

independent, impartial, all inclusive competent accountable electoral institution,

and the independence of the Judiciary.

The High Court of Zimbabwe has taken on the matter, but the principles of free

and fair elections as well as accountability which are pre-requisite in a

democratic election have been manifestly compromised by both the Zimbabwe

Electoral Commission and the incumbent Government of Zimbabwe.

Foundation for Human Rights Initiative (FHRI) appeals to the Zimbabwe

Electoral Commission to urgently revisit the ideals of the Principles Governing

Democratic Elections in Africa set by the Guidelines for African Union Electoral

Observation and Monitoring Missions 2004. We, in particular call upon the

Government of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Election Commission to:

i. Take all necessary measures and precautions to prevent the perpetration

of electoral fraud, rigging or any other illegal practices in order to

maintain peace and security in Zimbabwe.

ii. Ensure that adequate security is provided to all parties that have

participated in elections.

iii. Ensure the transparency and integrity of the entire electoral process by

declaring the results of the Presidential elections at the earliest

opportunity to prevent bloodshed as was the situation in Kenya

We stand in solidarity with human rights defenders in Zimbabwe and salute

them for their courage and resilience.

In defence of peace, democracy and human rights for all.

Foundation for Human Rights Initiative (FHRI)

E-mail: fhri@spacenet.co.ug