We have a problem in that some among us have categorically endorsed our next president. The police and the army have put their stake in the ground and ours, like sheep to the slaughter, is to blindly accept and follow. That is democracy- Zimbabwe style.
I think that our curse in Africa is the lie that those who liberated us from colonial oppression are endowed with superior abilities required to lead us, forever. In my opinion, the creation of a new democratic social system in Zimbabwe is unlikely as long as we continue to limit the gene pool of those who lead us. Zimbabwe needs a continuous renewal of leadership if it is to progress. For me, the periodic renewal of political leadership is the cornerstone of democracy and cannot be denied.
The sad fact is that those who do not want change actually believe that their views are valid and justified. I would advise them that their options are pretty limited. A scorched earth scenario will not only destroy our beautiful country but will also destroy the very assets that they seek to protect.
Yes, democracy can be postponed or delayed but can never be forsaken. I am convinced that no matter what, there are reasonable men among us who know what must be done and that with the passing of time good always prevails.
It is encouraging to note that the SADC has raised its concerns around this matter but as ordinary Zimbabweans, we must gather our wits and confront this old thinking. We need to be prayerful and must not be shaken in our efforts to create a new social order where all can pursue their personal ambitions without limit.
I have given myself a task to promote Zimbabwe whenever I can because there is just too much negativity out there. Most of those outside want Zimbabwe to fail to confirm their prophecies of doom. The continued utterances by the police and army are certainly not helping the situation, but it is important that we remain positive and focused on creating better social conditions for our people who have unnecessarily suffered for far too long.
Zimbabwe has huge potential. In my opinion we can even surpass South Africa in the future and our generation has the responsibility to accelerate that. We cannot achieve it as long as we continue to ignore the poverty around us and be obsessed with the accumulation of personal wealth at all costs. This cancer seems to have overtaken our society. What is the difference between this and those who seek to maintain the status quo at all costs?
In my opinion, change is going to be difficult but we must endure the pain because it is worth it. – vtmusewe@gmail.com
Post published in: Opinions & Analysis