Categories: Stories

Zimbabwe Electoral Commission sets record straight on voter registration

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission has dismissed reports implying that Zimbabweans with metal identity cards will not be allowed to register in the forthcoming biometric voter registration exercise.

ZEC chairperson Rita Makarau all that was required for one to register was an acceptable national identity card which could be a metal ID, a plastic ID, or a waiting pass with the holder’s photograph.

“There is no law that has invalidated the metal identity  card as proof identity,” Makarau said.

“All national identity documents listed above remain valid for voter registration and voting during the 2018 harmonised elections.

“ZEC would like to allay fears and uncertainties that may have arisen from recent press reports.

“During the BVR exercise, ZEC will register all Zimbabweans whose citizenship is confirmed by the national identity documents lawfully issued to them.”

The ZEC said all those who intend to register must ensure that their identity documents and proof of residence are legible to ensure a smooth registration process.

It also said that since voting with only be open to Zimbabwean citizens, all Zimbabweans born in the country but whose national identity cards described them as “aiens” because one or both of their parents were born outside Zimbabwe should have their citizenship regularised and confirmed to enable them to register as voters.

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Charles Rukuni

The Insider is a political and business bulletin about Zimbabwe, edited by Charles Rukuni. Founded in 1990, it was a printed 12-page subscription only newsletter until 2003 when Zimbabwe's hyper-inflation made it impossible to continue printing.

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