NANGO has been working closely with its membership to ensure that the 2018 harmonised elections are conducted in a free, fair and peaceful environment.
NANGO observers were manning polling stations as early as 6am on 30 July 2018 and were stationed until vote counting and closing of election day processes. Through the observers, NANGO is informed that most polling stations opened at 7am. One polling station in Chegutu had the wrong ballot papers and it has been confirmed that it will be open until midnight.
Reports indicate that there was resounding turnout of women and youth and the NANGO command centre is still verifying the statistics. A few polling stations were not disability friendly while others did not offer rest rooms for voters.
A major cause of concern on election day was voters that were turned away after they reported to the wrong polling stations. The highest number that has been reported by end of day on 30 July was 63 people in Mkoba, Gweru. In some parts of the country voting went on until very late and it seems this was not anticipated as there were no provisions for lighting within polling stations. We hope Zimbabweans that are still queuing will not be deterred but will be patient and exercise their right to vote.
We will continue giving you updates on developments that will be coming to keep you informed on the key issues.
As we wait for the counting and announcement of the votes NANGO urges the nation to be peaceful and tolerant during this period.
NANGO is the umbrella body of non-governmental organisations operating in Zimbabwe. It is an apolitical, non-profit making and non-denominational umbrella body of NGOs, founded in 1962. NANGO promotes a proactive community of NGOs that are responsive and committed to the sustainable development needs of all people in Zimbabwe and the full realization of human rights, democracy, good governance and poverty alleviation.
Presented by Wadzanayi Vere, NANGO Board Chairperson and Head of Mission of the NANGO Election Observation Mission on 30 July 2018.
