Vote counting is underway after Zimbabwe's first election since last year's ousting of the country's long-serving president Robert Mugabe.<br />Many were hoping the vote would be free and fair... and help put the country back on the diplomatic map and revive its ailing economy.<br />Our Oh Soo-young has more. <br />The polls are closed and counting has begun after Zimbabwe's election on Monday,... where millions voted in hopes of a brighter future.<br />Electoral authorities say that turnout was high -- over 70 percent -- with more than five million having registered to cast their votes. <br /> This is the first election in Zimbabwe without the country's long-serving leader Robert Mugabe on the ballot,... after a military takeover ended his 37 year rule last year.<br />Also, it has been seen as a relatively clean and peaceful election, given Zimbabwe's past of political violence and repression.<br />International observers have noted the absence of violence on election day, although some cited delays and inefficiency at some polling stations.<br /> Incumbent president and Mugabe's fired Deputy, Emmerson Mnangagwa has been considered the frontrunner of the race with the backing of the ruling Zanu-PF party,... although the 75-year old has been accused of political repression and violence in the past.<br />His main challenger is Nelson Chamisa, the 40 year-old leader of the opposition, the Movement for Democratic Change.<br />Amid bitter rivalry,... both candidates have promised to revive the ailing economy, which is suffering from hyperinflation, soaring unemployment and debt.<br />Chamisa has gone as far as pledging to hold the Olympics and the World Cup in his country.<br />So who will be the one to deliver their promise of building a new Zimbabwe -- the final results are expected to be announced within the next five days.<br />Oh Soo-young, Arirang News. <br />
