FOREWORD
Elections present democratic nations with an opportunity to redirect their country’s political, economic and social trajectory. It is the will of people expressed through each and every individual’s democratic vote that will determine the outcome of our elections and set in motion the destiny of our nation. Free, fair and credible elections can only be achieved through integrity, transparency, adherence to the law and impartiality at all levels – we shall exercise our mandated duty showing no avouritism to any individual or political entity.
Training for polling operations staff is a valuable investment serving to enhance the integrity of our election process. It is a necessary and integral part of each election – one that ensures that all staff have the competency to apply electoral procedures accurately, impartially, and consistently throughout every administration once, polling station, and counting centre.
In training for voting operations, it is essential to achieve competency; this entails not only knowing our procedures but also developing all staff's ability to implement these procedures in the prescribed manner. Polling staff are engaged in a one-time event, working under intense pressure, and with little latitude for error. This training manual provides the opportunity for each of us to gain a deeper understanding of these processes in a visual manner.
One key to ensuring free and fair elections is making sure every aspect of the voting, counting and results processing is completed both accurately and transparently. On conclusion of the results count at each Polling Station, Party Agents will be provided with copies of the Polling Station's Results signed by the Presiding Offcer and Election Agents present. It will not be possible for any individual to alter these results. It is this system of checks and balances that strengthens stakeholder confidence and contributes to the credibility and integrity of Elections.
As election offcials what our nation requests of you is; to fulfil your duty with strict adherence to our nation’s electoral laws and regulations and, at all times, to exercise your duty effciently, faithfully, accurately and in an impartial manner.
Justice Priscilla Makanyara Chigumba
Chairperson, Zimbabwe Electoral Commission
