MDC-T takes voter registration irregularities to SADC

The recent complaint lodged with SADC was mainly as a result of thousands of potential voters who could not register as the process was slow and inconvenient, because of alleged Zanu (PF) bid to rig elections through massive disenfranchisement of new voters and suspected MDC supporters in urban areas.

MDC-T spokesperson Douglas Mwonzora told The Zimbabwean that his party had appraised SADC about all irregularities in the Zimbabwe election process.

He said the complaints reflected MDC-T’s desire to have free and fair elections which will not lead to another disputed election.

“We want a level playing field because as a party we believe Zimbabwe should not be a permanent feature on the SADC agenda,” said Mwonzora.

SADC is expected to take action, despite its limitations regarding interventions in issues affecting member countries.

Mwonzora said common sense would tell that the voter registration period should be extended, to allow every eligible voter to register and exercise his right to choose a national leader and party of his choice.

Despite the irregularities, MDC-T said it was making all preparations and will win coming elections with a 90 percent margin in a free and fair election.

The Combined Harare Residents Association said in a recent statement. “Thousands of people were denied the right to register as voters because ZEC had no adequate time, manpower and resources to effectively carryout the voter registration process.

“This situation leaves a lot to be desired and frustrates any hopes of holding free and fair elections in Zimbabwe,” read part of CHRA.

ZEC chairperson, Rita Makarau, told civic society groups in Harare yesterday that, the electoral commission had closed the voter registration since the time frame allowed by the constitution had elapsed.

She ruled out extension of the voter registration.

Voter registration ended on July 9 leaving thousands if not millions of potential voters stranded.

Throughout the country, the voter registration process moved at a snail’s pace while long queues of prospective voters showed no sign of movement.

Zimbabwe is going to harmonised elections on July 31.