Zimbabwe's Robert Mugabe on Sunday emerged to address the nation for the first time since stepping down in November and just hours before Monday's historic election, declaring that "I will not vote for those who have illegally taken power."

Zimbabwe's ex-leader Robert Mugabe sent shockwaves through the party he dominated for decades when he posed with the retired general who will take on the ruling ZANU-PF in this year's election.

The World Health Organization has revoked the appointment of Zimbabwe's Robert Mugabe as a goodwill ambassador following a widespread outcry.

Several people have been beaten by police and at least one of the protesters sustained deep cuts on the head.

Prisons are congested and running low on food and uniforms in the troubled African nation.