adminZHRC said in a statement yesterday that it was ready to receive complaints about possible human rights violations ahead of the elections.
“The commission urges and implores the Zimbabwean electorate to be peaceful during and after the electoral process so that the elections are seen to be free, fair and credible,” said ZHRC.
“As the nation prepares for the harmonised elections to be held on the 31st July, 2013, we wish to inform the general public that it is within our mandate to observe, monitor, respond to and address any human rights issues which might arise during this period.”
ZHRC said it was serving Zimbabweans without fear or favour. The nine-member Commission has the jurisdiction to conduct investigations in matters which may constitute human rights violations.
The commission has power to secure appropriate remedies for victims including instituting action in court, but is legally prohibited from investigating a complaint if the complaint is the subject matter of civil proceedings.
The commission said among its mandate is promoting awareness of and respect for human rights and freedoms at all levels of society, promoting the protection, development and attainment of human rights and freedoms, protecting the public against abuse of power and maladministration by the state and public institutions.
The ZHRC is an independent institution set up in terms of section 242 of the new Constitution of Zimbabwe.
Online Reporter