Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to resolve Zimbabwe’s long-standing issue of disputed elections, provided authorities embrace and deploy the technology appropriately, according to a local election observer group.
In a statement marking International Democracy Day (IDD) on Sunday, the Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) highlighted AI’s transformative potential in Zimbabwe’s electoral processes, especially in improving voter registration through biometric systems and enhancing the transparency of ballot counting.
“This technology could be a game-changer in a country where contested election results have been a recurring problem,” said ZESN.
The organisation, which monitors electoral processes in Zimbabwe, noted that AI offers enhanced efficiency, accuracy, and the ability to detect fraud by analyzing data patterns and identifying irregularities.
However, ZESN also warned about the potential risks AI poses if not implemented with proper transparency.
“Stakeholders, including election observers and civil society, have raised concerns about the opacity of AI algorithms. Without oversight, AI could be misused to manipulate voter data, reinforce biases, or even disenfranchise voters,” the watchdog cautioned.
Zimbabwe’s electoral integrity has long been a sensitive issue, with past elections marred by allegations of rigging and disputes over vote counts. ZESN emphasised that, while AI could reduce human error and improve electoral efficiency, the technology must be rolled out with caution.
“In a country with deep historical and political divides, it is essential to deploy AI with transparency and oversight,” the statement read. ZESN advocated for publicly accessible algorithms and independent audits to ensure that AI is used fairly and that public trust in elections is maintained.
The organization also urged stakeholders to focus on two key principles: transparency and inclusion.
“Political parties, civil society, and other stakeholders must demand transparency in AI’s use during elections. Public access to information about how AI systems work is critical for maintaining trust. Additionally, independent audits and oversight mechanisms are essential to prevent misuse,” ZESN said.
The group also emphasised the need to ensure marginalised communities are not left behind. “AI systems must be designed with inclusivity in mind, so that vulnerable communities are not further disenfranchised by algorithmic bias,” ZESN added.
