From the Booth to the Dock: 2018 elections in Zimbabwe and the elusive search for electoral integrity

Abstract

ABSTRACT The issue of presidential election petitions seems to be repeating itself with regularity in much of Africa, thus warranting the need for thorough analysis. Utilising the 2018 presidential election petition in Zimbabwe, the article examines whether electoral integrity and legitimacy can be derived from court-based action. Data for this article was gleaned from case law analysis, review of expert analysis from constitutional lawyers and election experts, video evidence, in-depth and critical reading of grey material. The article concludes that there are limitations in relying on litigation in seeking to realise electoral justice in much of Africa, including in Zimbabwe.