The team is expected to meet government officials, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, political parties and civil society, among other stakeholders.

The visit by the observers is in line with the regional bloc's Principles and Guidelines Governing Conduct of Democratic Elections.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has not yet proclaimed election dates but according to the law, they are expected to be held between the 21st of July and 21st of August.

Meanwhile nn Friday Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said unlike the United State of America, his country will not interfere in elections in Zimbabwe or anywhere else.

Lavrov was concluding his visit to Harare where he met the President and his counterpart Major General Moyo.

Following the visit, Zimbabwe has also escalated Russia from Visa category C to B to encourage more Russians to visit that country.

And Lavrov scoffed at the idea that his visit had anything to do with the elections in Zimbabwe.

--Reuters--