In a blatant display of power and manipulation, ZANU PF, the ruling party in Zimbabwe, has resorted to a series of undemocratic actions to maintain its grip on the nation’s political landscape. Their attempts to demobilize and decimate the legitimate opposition have raised concerns about the future of democracy in Zimbabwe.

The Paralyzed Judiciary and Collusion with ZANU PF

ZANU PF’s use of lawfare through the paralyzed judiciary, coupled with its dominance in the national assembly through alleged electoral theft, has resulted in the forced removal of legitimate popular representatives from office. This calculated move serves as a means to an end for ZANU PF, aiming to weaken and ultimately eliminate the opposition. Amidst allegations of looting and plunder, ZANU PF’s obsession lies in eradicating any genuine opposition, hindering Zimbabwe’s transition into a democratic society.

Stifling Democracy through Unlawful Expulsions

ZANU PF’s futile attempts to demobilize and decimate the opposition are designed to deter Zimbabwe’s inevitable transition from a ZANU PF-dominated political system to a true democracy. The ruling party seeks a national assembly filled with its proxies or actual members, as this facilitates the erosion and violation of the nation’s supreme law.

The unlawful removal of legitimately elected members of the national assembly and local government officials did not take into account the need for constitutional replacement through by-elections. By postponing and delaying these by-elections, ZANU PF disregards Section 158(2) of the constitution, which mandates holding by-elections within 90 days of a vacancy in local government or the national assembly.

Disregarding Constitutional Obligations

ZANU PF’s actions imply a disregard for this constitutional provision, even as the 90-day deadline passes. The ruling party conveniently blames the pandemic for its inaction, using it as a scapegoat to avoid fulfilling its constitutional obligations.

There is no valid excuse for not holding elections, which are a fundamental constitutional liberty. Given ZANU PF’s claims of economic recovery and budgetary surplus, there should be sufficient resources to adapt elections, allowing for virtual or mail-in ballots. This would negate ZANU PF’s weak excuse for not conducting these crucial by-elections.

ZANU PF’s Fear of By-Elections

ZANU PF’s reluctance to hold by-elections stems from the fear that the same representatives they expelled will be re-elected. The ruling party can manipulate the presidential election but cannot rig individual members of the national assembly or local government, making by-elections a threat to their dominance.

This presents a conundrum for ZANU PF, as it cannot replace the expelled legislators with its own members, leading to the postponement and delay of elections. ZANU PF’s ultimate goal is to eliminate opposition from parliament entirely, as their success in doing so would cement their authoritarian rule. Accountability, transparency, responsibility, and the rule of law would all be casualties in their pursuit of unchecked power, while the welfare of the people would be neglected.

In conclusion, ZANU PF’s undemocratic tactics and disregard for constitutional obligations raise serious concerns about the state of democracy in Zimbabwe. The ruling party’s attempts to maintain its grip on power through unlawful means threaten the nation’s transition towards a true democratic society, and the international community must closely monitor the situation to ensure that the people of Zimbabwe are not deprived of their fundamental rights and freedoms.