Zimbabwe president calls for calm after deadly violence mars vote

Harare, Zimbabwe (CNN)Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa has urged his country's political leaders to pursue peace after three people were killed in clashes between opposition protesters and security forces in the capital Harare on Wednesday, overshadowing parliamentary and presidential elections.

"As this day that ended in tragedy comes to a close, I implore all political and community leaders to utter these words loudly and clearly to all those who follow them - "Seek Peace and Pursue it!"," tweeted Mnangagwa.

The deaths of the three people were confirmed by the government after automatic gunfire was heard as police and the army attempted to disperse protesters. Tear gas and a water cannon were also used as crowds fled the scene.

Supporters of Zimbabwean opposition MDC Alliance Party rip up an electoral poster in support of ZANU-PF party in Harare.

Hundreds of opposition supporters took to the streets with some appearing to have been beaten up by security forces. Burning tires could be seen on the roadside while armored vehicles patrolled the capital and a police helicopter flew above.

News Courtesy: www.cnn.com