By Albert Mpofu
As Change Radio Calls For Resistance
In a recent development, online data analysts and activist group Team Pachedu has brought attention to alleged voter intimidation tactics employed by a Zanu PF-affiliated group, Forever Associates Zimbabwe (FAZ), during the ongoing voters’ roll inspection in Zimbabwe. Team Pachedu took to Twitter to question the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) about its decision to allow FAZ to operate near polling stations, where they have reportedly been harassing citizens and demanding their voter and identification details.
The concerns raised by Team Pachedu have gained traction, with citizens from various parts of the country coming forward with similar reports and supplying the names of FAZ members involved in these activities. Shockingly, the reports suggest that law enforcement agencies have taken no action to address the matter.
However, amidst these troubling circumstances, a spirit of resistance is starting to emerge, particularly from opposition parties. The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party, in particular, has taken a stand against the alleged voter intimidation. The youth wing of CCC has mobilized, stationing themselves near polling stations to protect citizens who wish to exercise their fundamental democratic right to inspect the voters’ roll.
Media outlets have also joined the chorus, calling on citizens to stand up against such acts of intimidation. Change Radio, a popular broadcasting platform, is urging citizens not to be cowed by FAZ’s actions. They issued a powerful statement, reminding all Zimbabweans that ZANUPF and FAZ do not own the country and encouraging individuals to confidently inspect their voter information at ZEC polling stations. They stressed the importance of refusing to be intimidated by FAZ, traditional leaders, or any other entity associated with ZANUPF.
The growing sentiment of outrage regarding the presence of FAZ near polling stations and the increasing demand for citizens to assert their rights cannot be ignored. It is incumbent upon the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission to promptly address these concerns and take necessary measures to ensure the integrity and impartiality of the electoral process. Safeguarding citizens’ rights and preventing any form of intimidation should be the utmost priority in upholding a fair and democratic society.
The allegations made against FAZ raise significant questions about the role and independence of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission. Citizens are eagerly awaiting an official response from ZEC and are urging the commission to make public announcements through radio and television, unequivocally advising voters not to entertain FAZ’s attempts to collect voter details.
