Operation Mavhoterapapi

In 2008, for the first time since Zimbabwean independence, Mugabe did not receive the most votes in an election. Morgan Tsvangirai of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) emerged from the first round of voting in first place, triggering a runoff election between Tsvangirai and Mugabe.^[3]

Following his defeat in the first round of voting, Mugabe launched Operation Mavhoterapapi, a campaign of violence with the aim of intimidating civilians into voting for him in the runoff election. Dozens were killed and thousands were injured; some people were physically removed from their homes and forced to attend government loyalty sessions.^[4] About 200,000 people were displaced, and hundreds were tortured.^[1] Government forces allegedly inflicted torture by beating with chains, scalding with burning plastic, or tying up and burning civilians.^[5]

Five days before the second round of voting, Tsvangirai withdrew from the election.^[1] He cited the violence as his reason for withdrawal; with no opponent remaining, Mugabe easily won reelection.^[3][4] Violence continued after the election, as non-voters, identified by a lack of election ink on their fingers, were beaten.^[4]

• Operation Dzikisai Madhishi