In the face of adversity and oppression, some individuals rise above the rest, sacrificing their own lives for the greater good of their people and the pursuit of freedom. Such was the case with Nehanda, a fearless icon who paid the ultimate price for the liberation of her people. Her legacy is one of selflessness and unwavering dedication to the cause of freedom. However, the recent decision by the Zanu PF government to immortalize Nehanda has raised important questions about their true intentions.
Nehanda’s life and sacrifice stand in stark contrast to the actions and philosophy of Zanu PF. While Nehanda fought against tyranny and oppression, Zanu PF has been associated with corruption, human rights abuses, and a self-serving agenda. It is, therefore, a perplexing choice for Zanu PF to honor the memory of such a noble figure. One cannot help but wonder about the true motives behind this decision.
The statue of Nehanda may serve as a diversion from the pressing issues facing Zimbabwe today. The government’s focus should be on addressing the needs of its citizens, such as fair compensation for cotton farmers, adequate salaries for teachers, and a functional healthcare system. Instead, we see resources being directed towards a statue, while essential services remain underfunded and inadequate.
The questions raised by this decision are significant. How would an immortalized Nehanda appreciate the investments of cotton farmers or the struggles of underpaid teachers in Zimbabwe? How would a statue help a snakebite victim in Dande reach a hospital on time, or ensure access to life-saving treatment? These questions highlight the need for a government that prioritizes the welfare of its people and governs with their consensus.
Zanu PF’s legitimacy has been questioned, with allegations of captured courts and manipulated elections. This raises further doubts about their intentions in immortalizing Nehanda. What does Zanu PF hope to gain from this gesture, apart from perpetuating their grip on power and continuing to exploit the country’s resources?
Nehanda’s legacy deserves to be honored by a government that truly represents the will of the people and is committed to their welfare. It is clear that Zanu PF’s intentions are far from genuine, and this statue is merely a symbol of their futile attempts to maintain their political longevity.
The aspirations of Zanu PF for a one-party state are at odds with the values Nehanda stood for. She fought against tyranny and oppression, while Zanu PF’s actions have perpetuated these very problems. Fortunately, there are individuals today, like Erica Ndewera and Mamombe, who continue the fight for justice and freedom in the face of injustice.
The statue of Nehanda serves as a diversion from the pressing issues that Zimbabweans face. It reinforces the blinkers on the population, attempting to keep them apathetic and misinformed. However, the people have the power to recover their voice and their rights, and they can do so through a peaceful and democratic transition of power.
The restoration of the rule of law, accountability, transparency, and demilitarization of state institutions are essential steps towards a brighter future for Zimbabwe. Zanu PF’s attempts to deter this progress with a statue are futile and will not delay the inevitable.
In Zimbabwean culture, it is said that whatever flies will eventually land, and nothing lasts forever. Zanu PF’s reign, marked by suffering and oppression, will eventually come to an end. The opposition will gain power, and Zimbabwe will have the opportunity to rebuild and restore order. Nehanda’s legacy deserves to be honored in a government that embodies the principles she fought for – freedom, justice, and the welfare of the people.