Zimbabwe Election: Millions cast votes in first poll since Mugabe's removal

World
Europe

02:21

In Zimbabwe, most polling stations have just closed in the nation's historic vote. Voting officially ended at 7 p.m. local time but some polling stations will remain open until everyone has voted. Many Zimbabweans hope this will be the dawn of a new era for the country that has struggled with inflation and a hard currency shortage. CGTN's Farai Mwakutuya has the latest.

The overwhelming numbers and verification process for a new biometric voter register led to delays at some polling stations.

"This the slowest process ever."

But they weren't enough to discourage voters determined to have their say.

PETER MATSIKA VOTER "Because I need a new Zimbabwe. I need a change."

Monitors are investigating the delays as well as other isolated challenges that were reported during a largely smooth process.

ELMAR BROK CHIEF EU ELECTION OBSERVER "We have to check if this is a single example or a pattern which might have influence on the result of the election, there was also talk of bribery but this is all not verified so we need to check that so that it's not part of a final estimation. Overall I must say people wanted to vote they were in a good mood and this makes me optimistic."

The EU is expected to issue its preliminary findings in two days. Zimbabwe's Electoral Commission has reported two presidential candidates for breach of electoral laws.

PRISCILLA CHIGUMBA CHAIRPERSON, ZIMBABWE ELECTORAL COMMISSION "On Sunday the 29th of July at least two of the presidential candidates gave statements, which were published in the news media, which might be interpreted as campaigning. These matters have been referred to the police as to whether or not the electoral and or the electoral code of conduct may have been violated."

Nelson Chamisa held a press conference and President Emmerson Mnangagwa issued a response to former President Robert Mugabe remarks, both after the expiration of the official campaign period, which ended Saturday.

FARAI MWAKUTUYA HARARE, ZIMBABWE "Counting of ballots begins as soon as polling stations close and the tallies will be displayed here so as early as Monday night we could have an indication of the potential outcome. However the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, which is the sole body responsible for announcing the final results, will do so within five days of the vote. FM, CGTN, H, Z."