Poor turnout mars by-elections

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THE three Parliamentary by-elections held on Saturday were characterised by a poor turnout, amid concerns by poll watchdogs that police officers were active in assisting voters, exposing the process to unfairness.

THE three Parliamentary by-elections held on Saturday were characterised by a poor turnout, amid concerns by poll watchdogs that police officers were active in assisting voters, exposing the process to unfairness.

STAFF REPORTERS

Zimbabwe Election Support Network (Zesn) which observed the three by-elections in Epworth, Marondera Central and Mbire constituencies, said police roles in elections should be limited to maintaining law and order.

“Zesn observers have reported that the police are actively involved in the election process, including assisting voters,” the monitoring body said in a statement

The Mbire and Marondera Central by-elections were called after Zanu PF fired the incumbents, David Butau and Ray Kaukonde, who were accused of belonging to former Vice-President Joice Mujuru’s camp.

Mujuru has been accused of plotting to topple President Robert Mugabe.

The Epworth by-election was called after the death of former Mines minister Amos Midzi in a suspected case of suicide in June this year.

“Observers have reported that voting is proceeding smoothly. At polling stations where Zesn has deployed observers, opening of polling stations commenced on time with adequate polling personnel and voting materials,” Zesn said.

Another electoral watchdog, the Election Resource Centre noted that increased voter education could have led to a relatively lower number of assisted voters and turned away voters, unlike in previous elections.

Zimbabwe Election Commission officials said voting went on peacefully with no reports of violence or intimidation.