Zimbabweans took to the polls on Wednesday in a significant general election that will determine the future of the southern African nation. The presidential and parliamentary elections are crucial for a country blessed with abundant mineral resources and fertile agricultural land.
The opposition, traditionally stronger in urban areas, hopes to capitalize on the widespread discontent over Zimbabwe’s economic troubles, including high inflation and unemployment. Paddington, a 27-year-old fruit vendor in Harare, expressed his frustration, saying, “We are tired of this. We are living from hand to mouth.” His sentiments are shared by many Zimbabweans who are desperate for positive change under a new president.
The incumbent President, Emmerson Mnangagwa, who took power after the ousting of long-time ruler Robert Mugabe in 2017, is seeking re-election. Mnangagwa has pledged economic growth and the development of new infrastructure. Speaking confidently, he declared, “I’m going for my second term, it’s my last term.”
However, not all Zimbabweans share the same confidence in President Mnangagwa. Paddington, who preferred not to reveal his full name, expressed doubt, pointing to an electoral poster on his truck’s door and hinting at fears of government retaliation. He said, “That’s to be safe and make money.”
Mnangagwa’s main challenger is Nelson Chamisa, 45, who leads the yellow-coloured Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party. Chamisa, a lawyer and pastor, promises a new Zimbabwe “for everyone,” with plans to address corruption, revive the economy, and end international isolation.
At a campaign rally in Harare on Monday, Chamisa urged Zimbabweans to seize the opportunity for change, stating, “Zimbabwe, our time has come. We are going to win with a big and wide margin.” Nevertheless, given the country’s history of contested elections, few believe that Chamisa will emerge as the outright winner.
The CCC has repeatedly complained of unfair treatment by authorities, including the arrest of party members, the blocking of events, and limited airtime on national television. However, election authorities dismissed concerns about irregularities in the voter roll, dismissing them as “the product of creative imagination.” Rodney Kiwa, deputy chairman of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), assured the public that they are ready to handle any issues that may arise.
Zimbabwe, once known as Rhodesia under white-minority rule, gained independence in 1980 after a long guerrilla war. However, under Mugabe’s leadership, the country spiralled into authoritarianism and economic decline.
Unfortunately, since Mnangagwa assumed power, there has been little improvement. Zimbabwe faces “unsustainable” levels of debt, according to the World Bank. Inflation officially stood at 101 percent in July, although economists believe the actual figure is even higher. The scarcity of stable jobs affects the country’s over 15 million citizens, two-thirds of whom are under 25 years old.
Despite these challenges, there is hope among some Zimbabweans that Mnangagwa will deliver on his promises and improve their lives. Meickle Dumukwa, a 55-year-old onion seller, expressed optimism, saying, “They have promised so many things, so we are looking forward to those things. I am happy to change my life going forward.”
To secure re-election, President Mnangagwa, nicknamed “the crocodile” for his ruthlessness, must win an absolute majority of votes. However, only time will tell which candidate Zimbabweans have chosen to shape their country’s future.
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