Zimbabweans anxiously wait for election results as African observer missions note voter intimidation

By FARAI MUTSAKA
Associated Press

HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) — Zimbabweans are waiting anxiously for the outcome of general elections as dozens of armed police with water cannons guard the national results center, the scene of deadly violence after the previous vote five years ago. African election observer missions have been unusually sharp in their criticism and noted voter intimidation. Early official results indicate the ruling party is winning in its traditional rural strongholds, while the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change is taking major urban areas. Results in the presidential voting are not expected for several days. Zimbabwe’s long history of disputed elections has left many wary of official results.