Zimbabwe goes to the polls today in an election which could unseat President Robert Mugabe.

Opposition leaders are said to be growing in confidence, but international observers say they fear vote-rigging could prolong Mugabe's 33-year rule.

The 89-year-old President says he will leave office if he is defeated and will respect any victory for his main rival, Morgan Tsvangirai.

Tsvangirai himself says he takes the promise "with a pinch of salt".

Tsvangirai promises jobs, Mugabe warns against white oppression

Zimbabweans have left the country in huge numbers in recent years as the effects of the country's economic collapse are still being harshly felt.

Violence marred the last election in 2008, with Morgan Tsvangirai pulling out of a second round run-off against Mr Mugabe after 200 of his supporters were killed.

Tsvangirai has targeted voters with a promise of jobs, foreign investment and international respect.

Robert Mugabe, meanwhile, has warned voters about a return to white oppression (as seen below). He's also threatened violence against gay people.

The result of the votes aren't expected to be known for at least five days.