Torture, Bombs, and Forced Loyalty

The Cracks in the Regime’s Facade

The recent crackdown on Tendai Biti and others who oppose the planned revision of the constitution to serve the interests of a few has once again revealed the deep-seated hostility of this regime towards democratic principles. The presence of armed police with dogs at the offices of Biti, the convenor of the Constitution Defenders Forum (CDF), underscores how far the country has fallen from the ideals of democracy since the so-called “second republic” was established through military force.

The abduction and torture of a CDF member simply for being part of an organization that opposes the erosion of the constitution is a chilling reminder of how this regime has regressed into the dark ages. This comes on the heels of the bombing of Sapes offices, which were set to host an event opposing the constitutional changes. Such acts are not only disgraceful but also signal the transformation of the country into a banana republic, where power is wielded without regard for the rule of law or public safety.

If there is indeed widespread support for extending the leadership of the current president, marked by economic collapse, job losses, and poverty, then why the extreme measures to suppress dissent? The government’s actions mock the very slogan it claims to uphold: “The voice of the people is the voice of God.” Instead of holding a referendum to allow citizens to decide on the constitutional amendment, the regime has opted to rely on a parliament filled with loyalists and opportunists, further exposing its desperation to cling to power.

A Regime in Disarray

The leadership at Munhumutapa building has been characterized by a lack of integrity and vision. Joji, the president’s spokesperson, recently delivered a vitriolic attack on the late broadcaster John Masuku, accusing him of being a Western agent and a supporter of Rhodesian propaganda. This outburst reveals the callousness of a regime that uses the death of a national figure as a platform for political attacks.

Masuku played a crucial role in shaping the country’s broadcasting landscape, both for state and private media. The fact that Joji is so disturbed by the public’s grief and admiration for Masuku highlights the regime’s inability to engage in constructive dialogue. Such behavior is not only offensive but also reflects a broader culture of entitlement among those in power, who believe they alone can define patriotism.

Youth Minister’s Threats and Missteps

Tino, the youth minister, has long been seen as lacking in intelligence, but his latest threats against unindoctrinated youths have reached new lows. He warned that students without a National Youth Service certificate may struggle to find jobs, a statement that is both shocking and tone-deaf in a country grappling with high unemployment and rising drug abuse.

Instead of addressing the root causes of youth unemployment, Tino focuses on punishing those who do not conform to his ideology. His remarks reveal a complete disconnect from the realities faced by young people, many of whom are trapped in the informal sector with no access to stable employment. It is a scandal that a minister responsible for youth development would prioritize ideological conformity over genuine solutions.

This is not the first time Tino has made controversial statements. He once criticized the personal life of an individual during an inquiry into the transparency of his ministry, showcasing a pattern of inappropriate and unprofessional behavior.

A City in Chaos

Jakobo, the mayor of Harare, recently toured First Street after a scandalous revelation that buses now use pedestrian pavements in the area. His promises to improve the street, which has become a symbol of the country’s decline, are met with skepticism given the city council’s poor performance in providing basic services like clean water. Residents are charged exorbitant fees while receiving little in return.

Jakobo would be wise to focus on delivering essential services before making grandiose promises about reviving the area. The failure of the city council to meet the needs of its residents is a clear indication of the broader dysfunction within the regime.