HARARE - The United Nations says it is ready to monitor the country’s impending watershed elections provided the coalition government invites the world body.  

UN resident coordinator Alain Noudehou said his organisation acts on invitations from governments.

“Elections are a national process. The UN engagement has to be taken only if we have a clear request to do so, but at the moment we do not have any such requests so we are not yet planning to come but we will if invited,” said Noudehou.

The UN country resident representative said there was need for a request from Zimbabwe which would be followed by a “needs assessment” to help the UN plan for the crucial polls.

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) says it is ready for polls provided it is provided with the necessary resources.

Zimbabwe needs $300 million to hold an election and a referendum, which is likely to be held in January.

A new constitution is widely regarded as a cornerstone to the holding of free and fair elections.

Other pre-conditions for polls are security sector, electoral, media and political reforms.