Zim Mow Writer
The Zimbabwe Council of Churches has expressed concern over low turnout of voters during the February 3 by-elections.
ZCC said the average voter turnout for the observed constituencies was 23.2% compared to the March 2022 which was just under 50%.
In a statement, the council said Zimbabweans have lost interest in the electoral process as they seem to view it as ceremonial rather than democratic.
The council further castigated the recalls of Members of Parliament and councillors, which ZCC described as a disconcerting act.
“The recalls disrespected the will of the electorate, intensified political polarisation in the country, weakened the legislative capacity and quality of the 10th Parliament, it also grips the nation into a perpetual electorate mode; imposes a heavy fiscal strain on the country and are a threat to democracy as much as they are a significant impediment to the country’s post August 2023 development efforts.
“The church strongly asserts that recalling elected representatives can be recalled without due regard for the electorate stands as a pivotal factor contributing to voter apathy which was evident during the February 3 by-elections.
“Such actions, blatantly neglect the wishes of Zimbabwean voters and is imposing huge costs to the nation. This not only undermines the fundamental significance of elections as a process designed to accurately portray the will of the people but also diminishes the overall importance of elections to genuinely reflect the collective desires of the citizens.
The church urges reconsideration of our political actions and the conduct of our electoral processes.
“Restoring integrity of elections is paramount in fostering a democratic society where the voice of the people remains a cornerstone of good governance”.
The February 3 by-elections were conducted under the provisions of Section 39(2) of the Electoral Act (Chapter 2:13) and is a response to additional recalls of six members of parliament and 17 councillors affiliated to the Citizens Coalition for Change party.
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