After the upheavals of the past decade, during which countless injustices and atrocities were perpetrated against innocent citizens, Zimbabwe is supposed to have entered a new phase of national healing and reconciliation. (pictured: John Nkomo)The process is spearheaded by the Ministry of National Healing, Integration and Reconciliation, headed by John Nkomo of Zanu (PF) with Sekai Holland of the main wing of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) and Gibson Sibanda from the breakaway faction.
Events taking place in the country now, however, raise questions about the commitment of Zanu (PF) to the process. The recognition of the need for the country to confront its demons through this dispensation is, after al,l an admission that terrible injustices and atrocities were perpetrated and should never be allowed to happen again.
It is therefore highly disturbing that, before the responsible ministry even gets down to serious work, acts of intolerance, bigotry, harassment and violence continue. War veterans and Zanu(PF) gangs are reported to be on the rampage in the Mutawatawa area of Manicaland, where they are terrorising villagers.
In Chegutu, commercial farmers Ben Freethe and his father-in-law Mike Campbell are reported to have endured constant harassment, which recently culminated in the burning down of their homestead. The perpetrators of these horrible acts are said to be Zanu (PF) mobs – apparently acting on behalf of party bigwig, Nathan Shamuyarira, who wants to take over Freethes Mount Carmel farm.
It is believed Freethe and his father-in-law incurred the wrath of the powers-that- be when they challenged the governments attempt to seize the farm through the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) Tribunal and won. It now seems they are being punished because the SADC court ruled in their favour.
The process of healing and reconciliation is supposed to put human rights on the agenda as part of our national ethos. The observance of human rights in all situations and circumstances is supposed to be an urgent and imperative component of political and social behaviour. It is disturbing that such a fundamental truth continues to be denied by those who brought the country into the current mess.
Nothing will change in Zimbabwe as long as the atmosphere in which the seeds of healing must take root continues to be poisoned by hate, bigotry, intolerance and violence. Those behind the continuing atrocities must be reminded that reconciliation and healing will not pop out of a machine at an appointed time it is a process that must begin now.
Post published in: Editor: Wilf Mbanga