Zimbabwe: Opposition parties begin general election campaigning

Event

Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) leader Morgan Tsvangirai, and former vice president Joice Mujuru's National People's Front, have begun campaigning for the youth vote in major cities within Zimbabwe. Tsvangirai held a large demonstration at the Mkoba Stadium in Gweru on June 10 in an attempt to rally the masses. Tsvangirai has challenged Mugabe's presidency on four separate occasions since 1980.

Demonstrations are likely to be organized in the capital and other major cities over the coming months.

Context

Robert Mugabe came to power after Zimbabwe's independence in 1980 and has yet to name a successor. Despite serious health concerns, ZANU-PF again endorsed him as its candidate for the 2018 election, however the party has become divided over who will eventually succeed the 93-year-old Mugabe. Meanwhile, the Zimbabwean economy is in the midst of a worsening recession due in part to a lack of liquidity and protests are common. Zimbabweans are often forced to wait long hours outside of banks to withdraw cash and the government is currently struggling to pay civil servants. 

Advice

Individuals in Zimbabwe are advised to avoid all demonstrations due to the potential for violence and to anticipate heightened security measures.