Introduction: The Electoral Terrain in Zimbabwean Politics

Abstract

This book entitled Electoral Politics in Zimbabwe, Vol I—The 2023 Election and Beyond pays special attention to the overarching view that the 2023 harmonized elections define the fate of the major presidential contenders and their parties as well as (re) shaping the political and economic trajectories of the nation. Cognizant of the complex nature of the Zimbabwean political realm and nuanced dynamics at play, the chapters in this volume cover three interrelated themes, namely, the electoral environment in Zimbabwean politics; language, politics, and elections in Zimbabwe; and lastly, electoral institutions and human rights in Zimbabwean politics. The chapters foreground the ongoing tensions and politicking between the two main rivals, the ruling party, ZANU-PF and the main opposition party, the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC). The contributors also highlight the impact of internal tensions and factionalism within the contending parties, hate speech, the apparent voter apathy, disconcerting voices due to claims about lack of transparency and a toxic political space, as factors which are most likely going to impact on the outcome of the 2023 presidential elections. The current chapter (one) introduces the volume, it lays out the summary for the rest of the chapters.