In a recent audacious manoeuvre, Zimbabwe’s ruling party, ZANU PF, has flirted with actions that might severely threaten the pillars of accountability and transparency upon which a healthy democracy stands. This perilous endeavour has manifested through the allocation of new cars to the Political Actors Dialogue (POLAD), a political platform, ostensibly funded by donations facilitated by a close and influential client of ZANU PF, Tagwirei. This act unveils a dual-core strategy that demands an intensive examination. The automobiles, designated for POLAD’s use, serve a dual purpose – they are not just a mode of transport but also potent tools for manipulation and incentives, aiming to further the ruling party’s narrative.
At the kernel of this strategic manoeuvre is a bid to shape perception. Firstly, these automobiles act as blinkers, diverting the focus of POLAD beneficiaries away from pressing issues that necessitate immediate attention. Secondly, they stand as a captivating incentive, anchoring these political figures to ZANU PF’s cause. The gravity of this strategy is better understood within the larger scheme of ZANU PF’s relentless quest for a one-party state—a quest that, if fulfilled, would bestow upon them unrestrained power to exploit national resources.
The distribution of cars to POLAD is enveloped in a mire of controversy. Proponents argue that it’s a government initiative rather than a ZANU PF stratagem, which presents a skewed narrative and masks the very essence of POLAD’s existence. However, such a narrative blatantly overlooks the gargantuan issue at hand: the legitimacy crisis of ZANU PF emanating from unconstitutional retention of power. This crisis is a byproduct of the blurred boundaries between the ruling party and the enfeebled state, characterized by the concentration of power which diminishes checks and balances.
The degradation of Zimbabwe’s constitutional bedrock has bred a culture of rule by law and impunity, establishing a ripe environment for unchecked looting and plundering. This pursuit of a one-party state by ZANU PF is designed to perpetuate this vicious cycle, ensuring a continual flow of resources for self-aggrandizement while the public welfare and service delivery are left in the lurch. The brazen and criminal tendencies displayed by ZANU PF against constitutional liberties, human rights, and the misallocation of public resources accentuate the urgency of the constitutional crisis.
This crisis underscores the irrefutable necessity to address issues of legitimacy, popular will, and consensus. The argument by POLAD beneficiaries that ZANU PF isn’t synonymous with the government falls flat in the wake of this crisis. The amalgamation and subsequent paralysis of the state have propelled Zimbabwe towards instability and potential collapse. Unfortunately, this perilous amalgamation remains unchallenged, chiefly due to the acceptance of cars from ZANU PF, an entity that has effectively overshadowed the government.
In view of these unfolding events, ZANU PF has skillfully forced POLAD into a state of submission and sycophancy. The beneficiaries, now indebted for their new cars, have been strategically positioned as pawns to serve the ruling party’s interests. This setup portrays a misleading image of inclusivity and democracy, shielding ZANU PF from accountability. As rule by law and impunity continue to flourish, Zimbabwe precariously teeters on the brink of paralysis.
The repercussions of this well-orchestrated strategy are severe. Zimbabwe’s journey towards democracy remains a mirage, as the looting and plundering rage on. While the beneficiaries of POLAD cars may find themselves with outdated vehicles in a few years, ZANU PF and its patrons continue to bask in opulence through the spoils of self-enrichment. Amid these compounded tragedies, it’s paramount that the citizens of Zimbabwe remain vigilant, ensuring that accountability, transparency, and the sanctity of the constitution triumph over political manipulation and opportunism.
About The Author
