Our dreams, dignity, loneliness, powerlessness and sacrifice in Zimbabwe are similar to Steinbeck’s story. Our history of the last thirty-three years will forever be etched in our minds as a terrible dream that must surely now come to an end.
Three weeks ago, I had an opportunity to pay a brief visit to the Highfield District Clinic, as I walked into the old building, a cold chill, like death itself, ran down my spine. It was dark because the power was off and it was cold and lonely. The maternity ward looked and felt like a place of death and not a fountain of new life. I noticed the old iron beds still standing strong from yester year, with ragtag linen on them that could hardly warm a mouse. It was spooky in there and utterly depressing.
I am ashamed have been born at that very clinic in 1963 when things were much better than they are now. I am disillusioned with of those out there in the Diaspora who come from or were born in Highfield and encourage them to do the little they can to make a difference. Nobody else really cares.
With regard to the elections, expect more drama and intrigue as the race to power hots up. There seems to be a huge confusion on when elections should be held, and how the new constitution fits in.
From my understanding, the provisions regarding elections must be in place before they are held. Surely this is clear to everyone? There have been attempts by Zanu (PF) to hold them in June, but that seems to have failed. The best laid schemes of Zanu (PF) do oft go awry. Indigenization is one and believe me, there is more coming.
I was quite dismayed the other day, when I spoke proudly of how Zimbabweans in the Diaspora can come home, apply their skills and experience to rebuild Zimbabwe. I was informed of the divisions over there. In Canada, for example, I am told that some now even have separate Shona and Ndebele churches and people are not helping each other.
I have been told by some Zimbabweans out there that they actually avoid mixing with others because all they talk about are the cars they drive, their girlfriends or boyfriends, houses and how much money they have made or are making. Apparently they are so jealous of each other that they even go to the extent of reporting each other to immigration officials. It has even happened in the USA. I have been warned, therefore, not to expect much from those in the Diaspora when they get back home as most of them have become materialistic and divisive.
I anxiously wait to be proved wrong because, that is the same attitude and value system that has destroyed our country. God help us if millions return with nothing to offer the country that so desperately needs their experience and leadership.
I pray that those guilty of doing the above will change their hearts and focus on those things that matter.
More important, they must help each other out there and unite so that it may be well with them. Remember, we are only on this earth temporarily to do good and help those who need us. In conclusion, I was shocked to hear that some youths here, who were sending sms messages to get other youths to register for the elections, were raided and their efforts disrupted by some thugs who, no doubt, represent the CIO.
They were threatened with unspecified action and I am surprised that not even the MDC has come out in their defense. In the meantime, we hear that the police are being taken in droves to register in specific constituencies that are deemed MDC strongholds. That is clearly unacceptable and shows that we have a long way to go to democracy. I guess we can expect more intimidation as we draw closer to the elections but my message is that; the darkest hour comes before dawn.
I once again encourage all those who possibly can to come home to register and vote so that we may accelerate the arrival of a new dawn in our country. – Please comment and share your views by emailing: vtmusewe@gmail.com
Post published in: Opinions & Analysis