Assessing the implementation of SADC principles and guidelines governing democratic elections in Zimbabwe’s 2023 general elections

Abstract

This study examines the implementation of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) principles and guidelines governing democratic elections during Zimbabwe’s 2023 general elections. Amid persistent concerns over electoral integrity, transparency, and inclusiveness in Zimbabwe’s electoral history, the 2023 elections provided a significant opportunity to assess the country’s compliance with regional democratic norms. . Employing a qualitative case study approach underpinned by interpretivist epistemology, the research utilises content analysis of official documents, legal frameworks, media reports, and observation mission statements. In addition, semi-structured interviews with 15 key informants from electoral bodies, political parties, civil society organisations, and the media provide rich, experiential insights into the dynamics of electoral administration and political contestation. Thematic analysis, supported by NVivo, was employed to identify patterns and discrepancies in stakeholder perspectives and institutional practices. Findings reveal significant structural and procedural barriers to full compliance with the SADC Principles and Guidelines, including concerns over ZEC’s impartiality, unequal media access, voter intimidation, and the limited implementation of electoral reforms. While there were pockets of improvement, particularly in administrative planning and voter registration, the elections fell short of meeting the minimum standards for democratic legitimacy as outlined by SADC. The study concludes that sustainable electoral reform in Zimbabwe requires the depoliticisation of state institutions, robust civic engagement, and stronger regional enforcement mechanisms. By interrogating the disjuncture between formal electoral norms and practical realities, the study contributes to the discourse on electoral governance in transitional democracies and offers policy recommendations aimed at strengthening democratic processes in Zimbabwe and across the SADC region.