Job Description

Transparency International Zimbabwe (TI Z) is a non-profit, non-partisan, systems-oriented local chapter of the international movement against corruption. Its broad mandate is to fight corruption and related vices through integrity networks in line with the Transparency International Global Strategy. TI Z believes corruption can only be sufficiently tackled by all citizens including people at the grassroots level.

Background to the Call
TI Z seeks the services of qualified consultant/s to conduct a Baseline Study on Electoral Integrity in Zimbabwe. As part of its strategic programming priorities, TI Z recognises the fundamental role that credible, inclusive, and transparent electoral processes play in building accountable governance and resisting systemic corruption. It is in line with the broad objective that, TI Z seeks to generate evidence and tools that strengthen democratic institutions, elevate civic voices, and counteract electoral malpractice in all its forms. TI Z is commissioning this study to assess the state of electoral integrity in Zimbabwe. Such findings will inform TI Z’s targeted advocacy and capacity-building initiatives aimed at improving the quality and credibility of elections in the country. The study will also serve as a reference point for monitoring progress in electoral reform and democratic governance going forward.

A central component of the baseline will be a comparative analysis of Zimbabwe’s electoral frameworks against regional and international standards. These include the SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections, the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, and global best practices on transparency, participation, and electoral integrity. The baseline study will also explore opportunities for aligning national policies with these norms and advancing reforms that promote accountability, inclusivity, and trust in the electoral process.

Duties and Responsibilities

Scope of Work
The consultant/s will review Zimbabwe’s electoral legislation, institutional frameworks, and administrative procedures, with particular focus on the performance and independence of electoral bodies, campaign conduct and finance, voter registration, dispute resolution, and public participation. The study will integrate lessons and reports from civil society monitors, election observers, media, political actors, and marginalised constituencies, while also identifying systemic challenges such as politicisation, lack of enforcement, and opaque processes. The consultant/s will assess the current state of electoral integrity in relation to regional and global commitments, providing a clear analysis of where Zimbabwe meets, exceeds, or falls short of applicable standards. The study will ultimately recommend practical steps to improve the transparency, effectiveness, and legitimacy of the electoral process, thereby enhancing public trust and democratic resilience.

Objectives
The consultancy aims to achieve the following five core objectives:
1. Evaluate the Adequacy of the Legal and Institutional Framework:
2. Assess the Implementation of Electoral Processes and Procedures:
3. Document Stakeholder Perspectives and Experiences- Integrate evidence from civil society, political actors, observers, media, and marginalised groups to provide a holistic picture of Zimbabwe’s electoral environment.
4. Bechmark Zimbabwe’s Electoral Framework and Practices- Measure compliance with regional and international electoral standards and identify areas where Zimbabwe meets, exceeds, or falls short.
5. Propose Evidence-Based Recommendations- Provide clear, actionable recommendations for legal, institutional, and procedural reforms that can enhance electoral transparency, effectiveness, legitimacy, and public trust.

Expected Deliverables
The consultant is expected to deliver an inception report outlining the methodology, tools, and work plan; a draft baseline study report highlighting key findings and recommendations; a final report that incorporates stakeholder feedback; and a presentation of findings to TI Z.

Time Frame
The anticipated level of effort for the entire process is 25 working days with the final product expected by 15th of August 2025.

Qualifications and Experience

TI Z seeks a consultant with demonstrated expertise in governance, electoral systems, and anti-corruption research. Applicants should hold a qualification in political science, law, public policy, or a related field.

Documents
Interested candidates must submit the following documents/information to demonstrate their qualifications:
• Team members CVs/profiles highlighting past experience in similar projects/assignments and indicate at least three references:
• A four-page expression of interest explaining:
o why they are the most suitable to conduct the assignment
o brief methodology on how they will approach the assignment ethically, including engaging key agencies or departments for evaluating and approving research protocols in public health
• A detailed budget explaining the cost of the data capture, collation and analysis using the appropriate tools. This includes any fees involved in applying for the necessary approvals for the research protocol and peer review process.
• Valid and current Tax Clearance certificate

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted via email to [email protected] with the subject line:
“Expression of Interest – Electoral Integrity Baseline Study”. The closing date for submissions is COB on 18th of July 2025 and no documents shall be received or entertained after this due date.