Title: The presidential elections in Zimbabwe in 2023: a crucial issue in a tense climate
Introduction :
Zimbabwe is currently plunged into a decisive electoral period, with presidential, legislative and local elections being held on August 23, 2023. With nearly six million voters called to the polls, the country is witnessing fierce competition between the 11 candidates in the running. Among them, two names stand out: Emmerson Mnangagwa, the outgoing president, and Nelson Chamisa, leader of the opposition. However, these elections are taking place in a tense climate marked by increasing repression and political tensions.
Challenges for candidates:
Emmerson Mnangagwa, candidate for his own succession, is running without having proposed a clear electoral program. He is banking on the track record of his party, Zanu-PF, which focuses on infrastructure and building schools, highways and bridges. However, suspicions of corruption are tarnishing the image of these national projects, which has led the United States to impose economic sanctions on Zimbabwe.
For his part, Nelson Chamisa launched his electoral program late, which earned him criticism for his lack of vision. His party, the Citizens’ Coalition for Change, also denounces intimidation and restrictions by the authorities. The political violence that has already taken place during the campaign has raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
Economic crisis and voter concerns:
Zimbabwe is facing an acute economic crisis, marked in particular by chronic hyperinflation. The country’s economy also suffers from structural problems such as the predominant informal sector and high poverty. Agricultural production fell after the land reform of the 2000s, and the country struggles to attract foreign investment due to limited access to credit and an unfriendly business environment.
Despite these challenges, some infrastructure projects, particularly in the field of energy, have been launched thanks to loans from China. However, these investments are insufficient to solve all of the country’s economic problems.
Conclusion :
The presidential elections in Zimbabwe in 2023 are of paramount importance for the future of the country. The competition between Emmerson Mnangagwa and Nelson Chamisa raises concerns about the integrity of the electoral process and the political stability of the country. At the same time, the continuing economic crisis and voter concerns about jobs and poverty are adding further pressure on the outcome of these elections. It remains to be seen how the country will overcome these challenges and what the future will look like after the elections