In a country where medical practices are archaic and facilities are feudal, the prospect of heart surgery, let alone a transplant, seems like a distant dream. However, our focus today is not on Zimbabwe’s healthcare woes but on a different kind of operation – one that involves the heart of the nation’s economy, COTTCO (Cotton Company of Zimbabwe). Just as you cannot replace a faulty heart with another faulty one, you cannot expect a struggling company to thrive under the control of those who bear responsibility for its woes.

COTTCO, often referred to as a “dead donkey,” faces existential threats rooted in corruption, rule of law issues, and mismanagement. The ruling party, ZANU PF, is now planning to take a controlling stake in this ailing company, a move that could deal a fatal blow to both its production and the livelihoods of many Zimbabweans.

One of the primary reasons for COTTCO’s underperformance is the rampant corruption that has permeated its operations. Corruption has led to the diversion of inputs and funds meant for purchasing cotton from farmers, contributing to the company’s decline. Furthermore, the illicit stripping of company assets by both internal actors and ZANU PF members or clients exacerbates the crisis. If ZANU PF gains control, it could spell disaster for COTTCO, pushing it further down the path of self-destruction.

The prevalence of impunity among those plundering COTTCO is concerning. Many wrongdoers seem to believe they are immune from the law due to their association with ZANU PF. This culture of impunity poses a significant threat to the company’s recovery, as it discourages accountability and transparency.

During the period of 2008-2012, Zimbabwe witnessed a glimmer of hope when the opposition introduced economic liberalization policies. Struggling companies didn’t need to be forcibly acquired; they managed to bounce back with the right policies in place. This era showcased the importance of a liberalized economy, free from excessive government interference. ZANU PF’s preference for controlling stakes and interference, instead of allowing the private sector to thrive, has proven futile and detrimental to the country’s economic progress.

Transparency and accountability were cornerstones of the opposition’s governance during the Government of National Unity. These values struck a severe blow to corruption, resulting in a significant reduction in corrupt practices. The success of this approach demonstrated that fostering accountability and transparency can transform outdated and dysfunctional industries, ultimately prioritizing the welfare of the people.

However, the issues of rule of law, human rights violations, and property rights abuses persist, perpetuated by a government clinging to power. ZANU PF’s fear of accountability and a peaceful transition of power drives these violations, as they attempt to safeguard their ill-gotten wealth and shield themselves from prosecution. The crimes of the past cannot be wished away or buried; they demand accountability, which can only come with a change in leadership and a commitment to restoring the rule of law.

Instead of pursuing controlling stakes in already struggling companies, ZANU PF should consider reforming itself out of power. Allowing for a peaceful transition to opposition leadership is the only way forward for Zimbabwe’s economy. Restoration of the rule of law, constitutionalism, and property rights would discourage the need for controlling stakes, which only exacerbate the problems facing targeted companies.

In conclusion, ZANU PF’s quest for control over COTTCO and other struggling enterprises is a recipe for disaster. The party should instead focus on addressing the root causes of economic decline, including corruption and the erosion of the rule of law. A peaceful transition of power and a commitment to transparency and accountability are the keys to unlocking Zimbabwe’s economic potential and ensuring a brighter future for its people.