Zimbos fret over army hand in politics

MOST Zimbabweans have expressed concern over the involvement of the military in civilian life and politics saying it is becoming a serious issue, a report by a rights watchdog has revealed, amid fears this could have repercussions on democracy and public trust.

In its 2023-24 Annual State of Peace Report, the Zimbabwe Human Rights Association (ZimRights) revealed that nearly 68% of Zimbabweans are worried about the military’s growing influence in government.

The report noted that the military, once seen as just a part of national security, has extended its reach to day-to-day governance.

“Citizens are feeling the weight of this increased military involvement, with 49% of respondents expressing that they feel directly threatened by the military’s role in governance,” the report said.

“This sense of fear, combined with political tensions, has fuelled an environment of intimidation, particularly during elections.