Zimbabwe: Government Tables Draconian Amendments to Electoral Act

The government wants to amend the Electoral Act in a move that will further close any democratic space remaining in the country's political system. Under the proposals contained in the Electoral Amendment Bill 2003 which analysts say are clearly targeted at the opposition MDC, it will increasingly become difficult for poor urban dwellers - who are the opposition party's main supporters - to vote because they would, among other stringent requirements, have to produce proof of residence.