News Brief
Damola Durosomo
Jul. 30, 2018 11:51AM EST

Zimbabweans Remain Optimistic as They Vote In Historic Election

Zimbabweans are hoping for change after 37 years under the rule of Mugabe.

All eyes are on Zimbabwe, as the country heads to the poll to vote in a historic election: the first since the ousting of Robert Mugabe who ruled the country or 37 years.

The race is between incumbent President and Mugabe successor, Emmerson Mnangagwa and 40 year-old lawyer and pastor Nelson Chaimsa, who hopes to become the country's youngest leader in history. There are 21 other candidates on the ballot as well.

The youth will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of this election, as many first-time voters under the age of 35 will cast ballots today.

READ: 'Seems it's Always a Farce': Zimbabweans in the Diaspora on Trying to Participate in the Upcoming Elections"

On Sunday, the country's former president Robert Mugabe held a surprise press conference to announce his plans to vote against the Mnangagwa and the Zanu-PF—the political party which he founded—and called Chaimsa, the direct opposition candidate "the only viable candidate."

This election could signify a new turn for the Southern African nation, where about 5.5 million citizens are registered to vote, reports BBC Africa. There appears to be an air of optimism surrounding many Zimbabweans online as they see a major opportunity for change. So far, voter turnout has been notably high.

Read some of what people are saying about the election below.










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