In a country plagued by political turmoil and economic hardship, it appears that some elements within Zimbabwe have managed to carve out a semblance of a luxurious lifestyle amidst the suffering of the masses. While the ordinary citizens endure oppression, unemployment, food insecurity, and a skyrocketing cost of living, there exists a group seemingly immune to the consequences of a paralyzed state. These privileged few are none other than the impoverished, partisan, and politicized police and the rank and file of the military.
The state of Zimbabwe has been grappling with a dire situation, largely driven by the actions of the ruling party, Zanu PF, which has been accused of being a criminal enterprise that has plunged the nation into chaos. The political illegitimacy, tyranny, authoritarianism, and rampant corruption within the party have resulted in a paralyzed state, teetering on the brink of complete failure. The consequences of this state paralysis are far-reaching and threaten to destabilize not only Zimbabwe but also the entire region, much like the crises seen in West Africa.
However, amid this chaos and turmoil, the politicized police and military forces seem to be living a life that can only be described as heaven on earth, especially when contrasted with the dire conditions faced by the rest of the population. These forces, instrumental in enforcing the will of the ruling party, have enjoyed certain privileges that shield them from the hardships faced by ordinary Zimbabweans.
One striking aspect of this stark contrast is the existence of specialized facilities and services exclusively available to the politicized forces. Reports suggest that they have access to special hospitals and schools, where their families receive top-notch healthcare and education, while the rest of the population grapples with a crumbling healthcare system and underfunded schools. This preferential treatment extends to shopping, with specialized stores catering to their needs while ordinary citizens struggle to afford basic necessities.
Perhaps the most egregious privilege enjoyed by these forces is access to a special currency immune to the rampant inflation that has plagued the nation. While the Zimbabwean dollar has experienced hyperinflation, eroding the savings and livelihoods of countless citizens, the politicized forces seem to have been shielded from this economic catastrophe through their exclusive access to a stable currency.
This disparity is not only a symbol of the deeply entrenched inequality within Zimbabwe but also a manifestation of the authoritarian regime’s commitment to maintaining its grip on power. The politicized forces play a crucial role in suppressing dissent and ensuring the ruling party’s continued hold on the country. Their privileged status serves as a potent tool in keeping them loyal to the regime.
Historically, we have seen the politicized forces deployed to quell any challenges to the ruling party’s authority. The events of 2018 serve as a stark reminder of their role in suppressing dissent. Following contested elections, the military was deployed to crack down on unarmed civilians protesting electoral irregularities. Tragically, this led to the loss of lives and further eroded the trust between the government and the people.
Furthermore, figures like Job Sikhala, an opposition lawmaker, have faced arrest and detention, highlighting the authorities’ crackdown on political opposition. Such actions demonstrate the extent to which the politicized forces are willing to go to protect the interests of the ruling party.
In conclusion, while Zimbabwe faces an ongoing political and economic crisis, it is disheartening to witness the stark contrast in the quality of life between the politicized police and military forces and the rest of the population. The existence of specialized facilities, access to stable currency, and preferential treatment serve as a stark reminder of the entrenched inequality and authoritarianism within the country. As Zimbabweans continue to grapple with the consequences of a paralyzed state, addressing these disparities must be a crucial step towards building a more equitable and just society.