Chaos as Voting Runs Midnight: 'Mnangagwa Clutching on Borrowed Time'
The 2023 Zimbabwean general elections experience chaotic voting as ballot papers delay, leading to frustrations and extended voting.
HARARE, ZIMBABWE — The 2023 Zimbabwean general elections were marred by chaos and frustration as ballot papers were delayed in 22 wards in Harare and some parts of Bulawayo, where the opposition CCC has strongholds, writes Shorai Murwira.
Despite the delays, voters remained hopeful and determined, waiting in long queues until dark when the ballot papers were finally made available.
One voter expressed, "It made us realize the need for change and shows how those holding power currently are desperate to stay in office without considering democracy."
Emerson Mnangagwa, a ZANU PF candidate who has been the president of Zimbabwe since November 2017, was criticized by disgruntled voters as a careless leader more concerned with protecting his stay in office than addressing the needs of the people.
Thousands of people spent the night at polling stations in Harare, unable to vote on the actual day due to the unavailability of ballot papers.
Many believe that ZANU PF and its leaders are aware of the growing discontent among the Zimbabwean population. Some voters described Mnangagwa as a ruthless leader worse than his predecessor, Robert Mugabe.
"In all his stubbornness and ruthlessness, Robert Mugabe was never this clumsy and careless. These people are so glaring that you are certain they know they are clutching on borrowed time," angrily stated Donald Makoni, who cast his vote at 2215 hours in Harare.
Rumbidzai Magorimbo, who travelled from South Africa to cast her vote, expressed disappointment in how the electoral body handled the voting process.
However, she remained determined, stating, "This is just a frustration, but it will not bring us down. We are not going away; I will be here until I vote."
Despite the challenges, voters showed determination, arriving at polling stations as early as 5 a.m. on August 23, 2023.
Some even slept in queues, with voting finally commencing on August 24, 2023, after ballot papers arrived at Maranatha West polling station at 3 a.m.
At Cold Comfort primary school, voters were only able to cast their votes after 2000 hours when the ballot papers arrived at the polling station at 2015 hours.
As a result of the delays, voting has been extended by a day to ensure that all eligible voters have the opportunity to exercise their democratic rights.