Londonward

The ongoing Zimbabwean elections made me think back to the time I spent living in Zambia. Back then, in the mid-90’s, Zimbabwe was the epitome of an African success story, a country resplendent in its independence. The people seemed happier than in Lusaka, with streets bustling with commercial activity. The several holidays I spent on the Zimbabwean side of Lake Kariba were thoroughly enjoyable, with the region geared for recreation and tourism. I really looked forward to going down there every time.

Every public building from the border crossing office to hotel lobbies had a picture of the stern face of Robert Mugabe peering down on the activity, but so did the eyes of Frederick Chiluba look over rooms on the Zambian side. But therein lies the difference - despite upheaval and problems, Zambia has changed governments. In Zimbabwe, Mugabe still reigns with an iron fist, now aged 83. To be fair, he undoubtedly had popular support for his campaign where 1% of the population (the whites) controlled the vast majority of productive farmland, a staple of the Zimbabwean economy. I’ll readily admit that, as a Northern European, during my visits the western (northern) orientation of the country was attractive. Still, Zimbabwe is an African nation that should be ruled and managed by its majority residents if true democracy is to be upheld. The ruthless suppression of opposition political activity by the ruling Zanu PF and its allies goes too far, however.

I have watched coverage of Zimbabwean elections on several occasions, but this is the first time that I’ve really reflected on the appalling human rights record and economic state of the country that used to be such a model for success. The threats made by officials about any “unacceptable” outcome are truly chilling. Zimbabweans deserve better. I am not qualified in the least to preach on the best alternative, but it seems to me that Mugabe is delusional in his autocratic tirades of a “British conspiracy”. In a country where most of the electorate is struggling for their day-to-day existence due to crippling unemployment (80%) and staggering hyperinflation it is possible for the ruling coalition to discredit the opposition and blame problems on outside forces. Even if today’s elections mysteriously sweep the opposition into power, unfortunately I cannot say I see that as a stabilizing force.

Zimbabwe is a beautiful country. I fondly remember the people, abundant wildlife and natural beauty. Only now have I begun to realize how much time I spent in Africa has affected me. I hope to be able to return there soon, to a country on the road to recovery. If only there was an easy solution.

This entry was posted on Saturday, March 29th, 2008 at 13:56 and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.