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An analysis of 2011: Respect for human rights and implications for free and fair elections
Zimbabwe Election Support Network
February 22, 2012

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Introduction

This ballot update seeks to provide an analysis of the human rights situation in Zimbabwe and implications for free and fair elections. It is a synthesis of the findings from 210 long term observers deployed by the Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) for the duration of 2011. In February 2011, the Government of National Unity (GNU) celebrated 2 years of existence and this has not been smooth sailing for citizens and the government. While the GNU has brought a semblance of normalcy to the country, on the political scene, it has been a mixed bag of successes and failures to implement its letter and spirit. This update is a synthesis of data from observers deployed from April to December 2011. 1800 questionnaires were collected and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).

The Global Political Agreement (GPA) contains a declaration of commitment by the parties to work together to create a genuine, viable, permanent, sustainable and nationally accepted solution to Zimbabwe's situation. This commitment has not been fulfilled as the parties have not been able to work together in a way that charts Zimbabwe in a new political direction characterised by good governance, respect for the rule of law, peace and political tolerance.

This analysis will take cognisance of the provisions in the GPA as the measure of success and as a benchmark for implementation. The transitional government formed through the GPA is meant to ensure reforms that will lead to free and fair elections. ZESN recognises that the implementation of the desired reforms will create conditions for free and fair elections. Political leaders in Zimbabwe have realised that the fundamental problem in Zimbabwe is the politics and once this fundamental area has been resolved, all else will fall into place.

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