Zim: Respect the will of the people

Millions of Zimbabweans yesterday exercised their democratic right by taking part in a historic general election, which according to polls was too close to predict. The Zimbabwe vote was held for the first time since the ousting of long-time ruler Robert Mugabe, who was forced to resign last November. Incumbent Zanu-PF leader Emmerson Mnangangwa went up against 40-year-old Nelson Chamisa, who is the candidate for the MDC Alliance. Zimbabweans have generally been upbeat about the polls and it has given many hope. For far too long, the people of Zimbabwe have been patient with Mugabe’s rule, despite experiencing untold suffering, including an unemployment crisis and widespread poverty. Mnangangwa has from the onset showed signs of charting a path different to that of his old comrade, but it is up to the people of Zimbabwe now to decide whether they want to be led by the 75-year-old, nicknamed ‘Crocodile’, or go for the youthful Chamisa, who ironically has the backing of Mugabe and his wife Grace. At the end of the day, the will of the people must be respected. This election is a wonderful opportunity for the people of Zimbabwe to determine their own destiny - to own it and be the masters of the own fate.