Are Zimbabweans cowards
For years, I held the belief that Zimbabweans were passive, even cowardly, when it came to confronting the challenges that have plagued our nation for decades. But this notion was shattered when I came across a story that truly underscored the courage many Zimbabweans possess, a group of war veterans openly demanding the resignation of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. This act of defiance, coming from individuals who were once pillars of the ruling system, is a testament to the simmering frustration and resilience within the Zimbabwean populace.
The demand for Mnangagwa’s resignation highlights the severity of the challenges Zimbabwe faces. From a crumbling economy to rampant corruption, the country is on the brink of collapse. Inflation is soaring, basic commodities are increasingly unaffordable and public services such as healthcare and education are in shambles. The gap between the ruling elite and ordinary citizens has never been wider. For many, survival has become a daily struggle, with no relief in sight.
Corruption, in particular, has become the cancer eating away at Zimbabwe’s potential. Resources meant for development are siphoned off by those in power, leaving the majority to languish in poverty. Grand-scale looting scandals, such as the “gold mafia” revelations, have painted a picture of a government more invested in self-enrichment than in serving its people. It’s no wonder that even war veterans individuals who once fought for the country’s liberation are now expressing disillusionment. The ideals they fought for have been betrayed by the very system they helped establish.
Yet, for years, the perception has been that Zimbabweans are unwilling to challenge the status quo. This assumption has often been fueled by the lack of widespread protests and the apparent tolerance for poor governance. But this view fails to account for the harsh realities faced by those who dare to speak out. Zimbabwe’s history of political repression has created an atmosphere of fear. Activists, journalists,l and ordinary citizens who voice dissent often face intimidation, arrests or worse. In such an environment, self-preservation can easily be mistaken for cowardice.
However, beneath the surface lies a bubbling discontent that cannot be ignored. The bold actions of the war veterans are a reflection of a broader shift in mindset. Zimbabweans are reaching a breaking point and the question now is not if change will come, but when. The courage displayed by these war veterans is a call to action for all Zimbabweans to stand up against the systemic rot that has held the nation hostage.
The path forward is fraught with challenges. Overcoming years of mismanagement and rebuilding trust in institutions will require collective effort and visionary leadership. Zimbabweans must find common ground and work together, regardless of political affiliation or background, to demand accountability and push for meaningful reform. It’s a daunting task, but the alternative continuing down the path of economic ruin and political decay is far worse.
The international community also has a role to play. While external intervention is not the ultimate solution, global pressure can help create an environment conducive to change. Targeted sanctions against corrupt officials and support for civil society organizations can empower Zimbabweans to reclaim their future.
Ultimately, the courage of the war veterans serves as a reminder that Zimbabwe is not a nation of cowards. Despite the challenges, there is a deep reservoir of resilience and determination among its people. The road ahead may be long and uncertain, but as the saying goes, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” It’s time for Zimbabweans to take that step together, united in their desire for a better future. How long this will carry on depends on how soon we all decide that enough is enough. The time for change is now.
Engineer Jacob Kudzayi Mutisi
