ZEC Introduces AI Chatbot to Provide Voters With Electoral Information

Known as ZECBot, the platform was officially launched in Harare on Thursday, 12 November 2026. It is designed to respond to frequently asked questions from voters, political parties, election observers, journalists and other members of the public.

The chatbot will be available free of charge throughout the day, allowing users to obtain electoral information at any time.

Speaking at the launch, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Zhemu Soda praised ZEC for adopting modern technology to improve voter education and communication with citizens.

He described the initiative as an important step towards modernising the delivery of electoral information, noting that artificial intelligence was increasingly being explored by governments and public institutions worldwide.

According to Soda, digital technologies can improve administrative efficiency, make information more accessible and strengthen communication between public institutions and the communities they serve.

However, he emphasised that the use of artificial intelligence must be guided by transparency, accountability, responsibility and respect for people's rights.

He warned that technology should strengthen public confidence in democratic institutions rather than compromise their credibility or fairness.

Soda also highlighted the importance of an informed electorate, saying citizens need reliable and understandable information about elections, their rights and the institutions responsible for managing electoral processes.

He said ZEC, political parties, media organisations, civil society groups and digital platforms all have a role to play in ensuring that voters receive accurate information on issues such as voter registration, polling arrangements, candidates, electoral rights and procedures for raising complaints.

The minister further stressed that ZECBot should support existing voter education initiatives rather than replace traditional communication methods.

He noted that community outreach programmes, public meetings, face-to-face discussions and engagement through conventional media remain important, particularly in reaching communities that may have limited access to digital platforms.

Soda also cautioned that artificial intelligence systems are not always completely accurate. He urged members of the public to treat ZECBot as an additional source of information and confirm important or time-sensitive electoral details through the Commission's official communication channels.

The launch marks another step in ZEC's efforts to incorporate digital technology into voter education and public engagement ahead of future electoral activities.

Source: The Herald