

Vote with no confidence: Zimbabwe goes to the polls
Aug 23, 2023
Join John McDermott, Chief Africa correspondent for The Economist, as he delves into Zimbabwe’s fraught electoral landscape, where coercive tactics by the ruling party overshadow genuine voter sentiment. His insights highlight the dire economic conditions and the alarming suppression of dissent. Erin Braun, the West Coast correspondent, adds depth by recounting the emotional aftermath of the devastating Lahaina wildfires, including community frustrations and the criticisms of federal response efforts. Together, they paint a compelling picture of political challenges in two vastly different regions.
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Coerced Rallies in Zimbabwe
- ZANU-PF, the ruling party in Zimbabwe, held mass rallies with seemingly enthusiastic crowds.
- Locals reported being coerced into attending, risking penalties if they refused.
Stagnation and Mismanagement in Zimbabwe
- Zimbabweans feel their country is stagnating, with 72% believing it's heading in the wrong direction.
- Inflation and alleged corruption contribute to this sentiment, reminiscent of the Mugabe era.
Election Manipulation Tactics
- ZANU-PF employs various tactics to manipulate elections, including misusing state resources and suppressing dissent.
- A new tactic involves Forever Associates Zimbabwe, a group allegedly used to intimidate voters.