The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has issued a statement clarifying the mask-wearing guidelines for voters at polling stations during the upcoming election on August 23.
Contrary to some social media reports, ZEC has stated that voters are not required to wear masks in order to cast their votes.
While masks are not mandatory for all voters, ZEC emphasizes the importance of wearing masks for individuals who are feeling unwell or displaying symptoms related to COVID-19.
ZEC further assures voters that all individuals entering the polling stations will be sanitized as a precautionary measure.
This is in line with the ongoing efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and prioritize the health and safety of voters.
Saviour Kasukuwere Refuses To Endorse Nelson Chamisa, Urges Voters To Unseat Emmerson Mnangagwa
In a statement, ZEC said,
“The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission advises all voters that there is no requirement for a voter to put on a mask when visiting a polling station.
“However, those with symptoms related to COVID-19 may put on their masks for the safety of others.
“Nevertheless, all voters will be sanitized before entering the polling station,” Reads the statement.
Presidential Election Results Announcement Timeline
The ZEC has also established a clear timeline for the announcement of the presidential election results. According to an official statement, the final results will be officially declared within five days following the polling day at the ZEC National Collation Centre.
The specified timeline allows for the meticulous execution of necessary procedures and verification processes before the final results are made public.
Premature Election Result Announcements Face Severe Consequences: ZEC Issues Dire Warning
Violators of this electoral offense will face legal consequences, which may include fines, imprisonment, or both.
In a statement, ZEC said:
Presidential Election results will be announced within five (5) days after the polling day at the ZEC National Collation Centre
It is illegal to announce election results verbally or in print before they are announced by ZEC. Violators of this electoral offence will face legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, or both.
Source iHarare.com
