Over the past two decades, Zimbabwe has been marked by political turmoil, economic hardships, and allegations of election manipulation. The ruling party, ZANU PF, has consistently tried various tactics to consolidate its power and undermine the opposition. From violence to defections and capture of local government operations, these efforts have largely failed. In this article, we explore why ZANU PF’s desperate attempts to thwart the opposition’s resilience have fallen flat.

ZANU PF’s early 2000s strategy of using violence to coerce Zimbabweans into legitimizing their rule through the ballot box was met with widespread international condemnation and ultimately proved ineffective. Similarly, other machinations, such as lawfare, state capture, resistance to devolution, and partisan distribution of essential resources like food, have not succeeded in quelling the opposition’s spirit.

One of the key reasons for ZANU PF’s failures is the remarkable resilience of the opposition. Despite facing numerous challenges, including disillusioned officials defecting to the ruling party, the opposition has managed to maintain its core support base. These defectors are often seen as career politicians motivated by personal gain rather than a commitment to the people’s struggle against tyranny.

Moreover, the political apathy that ZANU PF exploited for years at the expense of economic development and growth has waned. Zimbabweans are no longer willing to follow the defectors or embrace ZANU PF’s tactics. Communities are still healing from the divisive and coercive strategies employed by the ruling party, and joining ZANU PF is viewed as a betrayal.

ZANU PF’s attempts to capture local urban government operations, such as water supply and refuse collection, are unlikely to lead to a landslide victory in the 2023 elections. Zimbabweans are well aware of the party’s history of economic mismanagement and corruption. The opulent lifestyles of some ZANU PF leaders, contrasted with the country’s crumbling infrastructure and struggling healthcare system, have eroded any trust the people may have had in the ruling party.

Furthermore, ZANU PF’s age limits and “Patriot bills” targeting the opposition have only fueled public anger and resistance. Many Zimbabweans see these measures as attempts to suppress genuine change and protect an unpatriotic ruling elite that benefits from the status quo.

In the end, ZANU PF’s desperate attempts to derail the opposition have hit a brick wall of resilience. The opposition remains the people’s choice and custodian of popular will and legitimacy. Despite the ruling party’s efforts, Zimbabweans are no longer largely apathetic and are determined to bring about meaningful change.

In conclusion, ZANU PF’s tactics have failed because the opposition’s resilience is unwavering, supported by a public that is no longer willing to accept empty promises and oppressive measures. The people have spoken, and the opposition remains their choice for a brighter future. ZANU PF’s attempts to maintain its grip on power will continue to be deprived of success as long as the people’s will prevails.