Staff Reporter

The Zimbabwe Election Observer Mission (ZEOM) has lauded the recent 2024 Russian Presidential Elections for their credibility, fairness and free nature.

The leader of the ZEOM, Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) chairperson Justice Priscilla Chigumba, hailed the elections as a testament to Russia's mature democratic ethos.

"The mood was relaxed and cheerful as people were exercising their right to vote. This is a clear sign of a mature democracy in which elections are not perceived as a life-and-death activity," Justice Chigumba remarked.

Highlighting the role of media in shaping electoral narratives, Justice Chigumba applauded the Russian media's objective coverage of the elections.

She pointed out that, despite the criticism from some international outlets, Russian journalists demonstrated professionalism and impartiality.

"Apart from reports by some external media organizations, there was evidence of objective reporting of the activities by the local media that was observed," she added.

Justice Chigumba commended the Central Elections Commission of the Russian Federation (CEC), for organising the elections which ensured that every eligible voter could cast their ballot.

She noted the innovative approach to candidate introduction, stating that "while the ballot paper did not have photos of the candidates, every polling station had a poster introducing the candidates.”

Moreover, Justice Chigumba added that the provision of posters detailing electoral laws and regulations at polling stations underscored a commitment to transparency and the rule of law.

She said that the visual aids served not only to guide voter and observer conduct but also to reaffirm the legal framework underpinning the electoral process.

Amidst the United Kingdom’s (UK) scrutiny of the Russian elections, political commentator Edwin Chenjerai offered a poignant critique of the UK's response to the elections.

"It's the UK’s modus operandi that whenever they fail to influence the outcome of an election in a foreign country, they are quick to label the elections as not being free and fair,” said Chenjera.

Meanwhile, President Vladimir Putin won a record post-Soviet landslide in Russia's election last Sunday, cementing his grip on power in a victory he said showed Moscow had been right to stand up to the West and send its troops into Ukraine.