Zimbabweans are set to vote for a new president amidst challenges, including an economic downturn and reports of opposition suppression.
Over six million citizens have registered to cast their votes at 12,000 polling stations countrywide.
Although there are eleven presidential candidates, the two leading contenders are the incumbent, Emmerson Mnangagwa of ZANU-PF, and Nelson Chamisa of the Coalition for Change (CCC).
Mnangagwa, in office since a 2017 military takeover, is seeking re-election after narrowly defeating Chamisa in 2018.
If no candidate secures more than 50% of the vote, a runoff will be held on October 2nd. Additionally, Zimbabweans will elect parliamentary and local government representatives.
While Mnangagwa touts energy improvements and job creation, Chamisa pledges free education, universal health coverage, and adopting the US dollar for economic stability.
There have been concerns regarding political violence and suppression of opposition voices in the run-up to the elections.
International entities, including the European Union and African Union, will be observing the voting process.