By Kimani Njenga and Ian Juma
As Zimbabwe eagerly approaches the pivotal date of August 23, 2023, citizens find themselves at a crossroads, bracing for what could be a turning point in their nation’s history. This imminent election, which will determine the new president and members of parliament, is poised to shape the destiny of a country grappling with decades of challenges. A cloud of uncertainty lurks over the backdrop of hope and anticipation, casting doubt on the process’s transparency and impartiality.
At the forefront of this electoral showdown stand two prominent figures: President Emmerson Mnangagwa of the long-standing ZANU-PF party and Nelson Chamisa of the opposition CCC, who draws significant support from the urban youth. As these frontrunners vie for the nation’s highest office, the inherent disparities in power and resources between the incumbent ZANU-PF and the CCC are starkly evident. The entrenched incumbent enjoys the weight of state machinery and funding, while the opposition harnesses the fervour of urban youth. Yet, beneath the surface of this political contest, a disquieting narrative of repression and scepticism unfolds. Concerns reverberate among the citizenry, echoing the chorus of uncertainty that has marred previous elections. An ominous cloud hangs over the electoral process, stemming from allegations of restricted voter registration and curtailed freedoms of expression and association. The very essence of democracy seems compromised, as opposition voices are silenced and dissenting musicians are censored.
The recent passage of Zimbabwe’s “Patriotic Bill,” officially known as the Criminal Law Codification and Reform Amendment Bill, through the lower house of parliament has ignited a fervent debate. This significant legislative move, strategically timed just months ahead of Zimbabwe’s upcoming elections on August 23, 2023, has cast a shadow of concern over the nation’s political landscape. At the core of the bill lies a novel addition: section 22A of the Criminal Law Act. This new provision takes a firm stance against any actions deemed to “willfully injure the sovereignty and national interest of Zimbabwe.” Of particular concern is the section’s sweeping scope, which extends to criminalising interactions, meetings, or communications involving Zimbabwean citizens or permanent residents that engage with foreign governments or their agents. The language used in the provision is deliberately vague and expansive, creating a troubling environment in which state authorities could exploit their power to quell dissent and stifle criticism against the government. The implications of this amendment on freedom of expression are far-reaching. By criminalising various forms of communication, it not only challenges the fundamental right to speak out but also raises the spectre of potential abuse.
The integrity of the Electoral Commission of Zimbabwe (ZEC) also comes into question, with allegations of political bias tainting its credibility. The failure to uphold transparency in the delimitation exercise and the refusal to disclose the voters’ register only deepens the prevailing doubts. In a country where the power to vote is sacrosanct, citizens are left disillusioned by technical mishaps and bureaucratic hurdles that mar their attempts to register. A stark testament to this mistrust is the startling statistic that less than half of Zimbabweans express faith in the ZEC, a distressing indictment of an institution meant to safeguard democratic principles.
In an open letter to President Mnangagwa, the Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition portrays a bleak path to the 2023 Elections, rife with tension. The burden of reviving Zimbabwe rests on its people, amid daily hardships and scepticism. Disenchantment with a skewed system has eroded trust, particularly among the youth, who are vital for the nation’s future. Afrobarometer’s survey reveals a significant generational gap, with young Zimbabweans disheartened by past political engagement’s perceived ineffectiveness.
Amidst this maelstrom of challenges, a glimmer of hope still persists. Regardless of the election’s outcome, the citizens’ yearning for a nation free from corruption, grappling with a more manageable cost of living, and fostering stability in the local currency remains unquenched. The road ahead may be treacherous, yet the collective aspiration for a brighter future unites Zimbabweans in their pursuit of change.
In conclusion, as the countdown to August 23rd continues, Zimbabwe stands on the precipice of a critical moment in its history. The shadows of repression and scepticism may swirl, but the unwavering hope of the people serves as a beacon of resilience. As the nation steps into the election, it is imperative that transparency, fairness, and accountability prevail. The world watches as Zimbabweans summon their collective strength, poised to reclaim their agency and shape a destiny that resonates with the aspirations of all its citizens.
