ZEC update on Site Validation Tests for Biometric Voter Registration Kits

ZIMBABWE ELECTORAL COMMISSION
Chairperson’s Office
PRESS RELEASE: 22 APRIL 2017

Zimbabwe Electoral Commission Biometric Voter Registration Kits Site Validation Tests Update

Following our statement issued on Thursday 20 April 2017, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) wishes to update the Nation on the Biometric Voter Registration (BVR) Kits Site Validation Tests, that started on that day involving two bidders, namely Dermalog Identification Systems from Germany and Laxton Group Limited from China. On 21 April 2017, the two companies made detailed presentations to ZEC, representatives of political parties, ciAl society organizations, Government and ZEC cooperating partners, who were all accredited as observers.

Today 22 April 2017, the BVR kits are undergoing laboratory tests to determine compatibility of the software and hardware to the tender requirements and specifications, in the presence of ZEC and the accredited observers. As advised in the earlier statement, the Site Validation Tests are part of the tendering process. As such, it is not permissible for observers to interact directly with bidders, assessors and evaluators as prescribed in the Code of Conduct availed to all observers. Interaction is confined to the technical team that has been specifically trained on what to assess in the tender.

This stage is very delicate in the procurement process and ZEC would want to urge observers to exercise patience, caution and to refrain from making public pronouncements on the process.The Commission wishes to reassure the Nation on its unwavering commitment to transparency, professionalism and inclusive participation in the electoral process.

Justice Rita Makarau Chairperson Zimbabwe Electoral Comrnission.
Chairperson Zimbabwe Electoral Comrnission.
Zimbabwe Electoral Commission.