The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Election Observer Team on Sunday endorsed the conduct of the Zimbabwe constitutional referendum, saying that it was conducted in a free, peaceful and transparent manner.

Team leader and Tanzanian Foreign Minister Bernard Membe told a press conference in Harare that in general "the mission observed that the referendum was conducted in a free, peaceful and transparent manner."

He said over and above the adherence to SADC principles and guidelines on the conduct of elections, the mission noted the provision of adequate logistical support to the process, prompt accreditation of observers, provision of indelible ink and translucent ballot boxes and the preparedness of the police.

Zimbabweans voted Saturday to decide on a draft constitution, a key political reform paving the way for general elections later this year. The draft is widely considered to pass as the text was agreed upon by the country's major political parties.

A number of observers, especially from the African countries, participated in the referendum to ensure a fair and peaceful procedure.

Some of the concerns included the late provision of financial resources to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), voter apathy, lack of time for the electorate to study the draft, limited voter education and a polarized media.

Membe recommended that funds should be provided to ZEC and updating of the voter's roll way ahead of elections, adding that voter education was necessary for a credible poll.

Zimbabwe's electoral body said the results of the referendum will be announced in five days according to the law.