ZIMBABWE’S main opposition leader on Sunday alleged “blatant and gigantic fraud” in the country’s election after President Emmerson Mnangagwa was declared the winner.

Nelson Chamisa’s accusation came as international observers reported an atmosphere of intimidation against voters.

In his first public reaction to the election outcome, the opposition leader Nelson Chamisa wrote on social media: “They stole your voice and vote, but never your hope. It’s a blatant and gigantic fraud.”

“The vote will be challenged, it was fraught with unprecedented illegality,” Mr Chamisa said later on Sunday in the capital Harare, describing the results as doctored and criminal.

But Mr Mnangagwa told a news conference that the elections were run transparently.

He added: “I did not conduct these elections. I think those who feel the race was not run properly know where to go to complain. I am so happy.” 

Mr Mnangagwa was re-elected for a second and final five-year term with 52.6 per cent of the vote, according to the Electoral Commission. 

Mr Chamisa, who also lost to Mr Mnangagwa in a disputed election five years ago, won 44 per cent of the vote this time, the commission said.

International election observers noted problems with the election, held on Wednesday and Thursday, citing an atmosphere of intimidation against opposition supporters. 

In the buildup to the vote, international rights groups reported a crackdown on opposition to Mr Mnangagwa and the long-ruling Zanu-PF party. The rights groups said the party had used the police and courts to harass and intimidate opposition officials and supporters.

Before the election, Mr Chamisa told reporters that his party’s rallies had been broken up by police and his supporters had often been intimidated and threatened with violence.

The election was extended into Thursday because of a shortage of ballot papers, especially in the capital and other urban areas that are opposition strongholds.