The 2022 national census in Zimbabwe is constitutionally mandated and crucial for various reasons including determining population size, planning, and allocation of devolution funds. Its most significant role is in the delimitation process, which involves redrawing electoral boundaries based on census data and registered voters. The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) will use the census data to adjust constituencies and wards, affecting political representation. The last delimitation was in 2008, and the upcoming one is critical for democracy, given past accusations of gerrymandering. The delimitation must be completed six months before the 2023 general elections to be applicable. The census and delimitation processes are essential for fair political representation and the legitimacy of elections.

The article discusses the trend of African leaders refusing to step down after their constitutionally mandated two terms, leading to what is termed as a 'third term crisis'. It highlights several African countries where leaders have either successfully extended their terms by amending constitutions or faced resistance from their citizens. Namibia's Sam Nujoma and Uganda's Yoweri Museveni managed to extend their terms, while Zambia's Fredrick Chiluba and Malawi's Bakili Muluzi did not. Cameroon's Paul Biya eliminated term limits, and Djibouti's Ismail Guelleh is on his fourth term. Controversies also arose in Burundi with Pierre Nkurunzinza and Rwanda with Paul Kagame's third-term bids. The article also mentions the situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo with Joseph Kabila delaying elections. It contrasts these leaders with others who have honored term limits, including Nelson Mandela of South Africa, and notes that Zimbabwe's term limit will be effective in 2023.

The article discusses the significant age gap between African leaders and the continent's predominantly young population. It highlights the low political participation of youth in Africa, despite them being a majority. The African Economic Outlook report is cited, noting the continent's young working-age population and the potential for youth to drive economic and social development. The article references various countries, including South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Kenya, pointing out the underrepresentation of youth in politics and voter rolls. It also mentions initiatives like the African Youth Charter and constitutional provisions in countries like Rwanda, Morocco, and Tunisia aimed at increasing youth political engagement. Upcoming general elections in Rwanda, Kenya, Angola, and Liberia are seen as opportunities for increased youth participation in politics.

The article discusses the need for free and fair elections, using the examples of Ghana and the United States to contrast with the situation in Zimbabwe. It highlights the issues with Zimbabwe's elections, which have been disputed since the 2000 parliamentary election, leading to conflicts and hindering development. The ruling party, ZANU-PF, has resisted electoral reforms, and efforts by NGOs and the Electoral Resource Center have not yielded public results. The article compares Zimbabwe's lack of progress with Kenya's successful electoral reforms achieved through demonstrations. It outlines the reforms needed in Zimbabwe, such as media access for opposition, an independent electoral commission, and voter education. The upcoming 2018 elections are seen as crucial for Zimbabwe's political stability and development, but it is uncertain if the government will implement the necessary reforms for a legitimate election.