As the closely watched general elections in Zimbabwe unfold, the ruling Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (Zanu-PF) has declared that early projections indicate incumbent President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s victory. The Zimbabwe election results are gradually emerging from polling stations throughout the country.
Patrick Chinamasa, the Treasurer General of Zanu-PF, addressed both local and international media during a briefing at the party’s headquarters in Harare. He announced that based on their projections, Mnangagwa is poised for a comfortable win with a margin estimated between 60 and 65 percent.
Chinamasa, standing in for Zanu-PF secretary general Obert Moyo, emphasized that the party’s projections are derived from information released by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) at polling stations and the data collected by the party’s electoral agents.
Stern Warning Against Violence on Outcome of Zimbabwe Election
Given the historical context of post-electoral unrest in Zimbabwe related to contested outcomes, Chinamasa conveyed a stern warning against inciting violence. He stated that those attempting to instigate violence would face consequences from law enforcement agencies.
Chinamasa also addressed statements from Nelson Chamisa, the leader of the main opposition party, the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC). Chamisa had claimed victory through social media posts, asserting a decisive win.
Chinamasa dismissed Chamisa’s assertions, labeling them as attempts to disrupt the peaceful electoral process. He emphasized that the true authority on election results lies with ZEC, urging citizens to rely on their official announcements.
The general elections in Zimbabwe have been marked by extensive participation, with long queues witnessed at polling stations across the country.
President Mnangagwa extended the voting period by a day due to delays on the initial day of voting.
These elections mark Zimbabwe’s second general elections following the removal of long-standing leader Robert Mugabe, who ruled for 37 years.
With nearly seven million registered voters in a country of over 15 million inhabitants, the elections hold significant implications for the nation’s future.