Zimbabwe's Elusive Independence: A Cry from Ordinary Citizens - by Sakhile Ncube

18th April 2024

As Zimbabwe commemorates yet another Independence Day today, April 18th, the reality for many ordinary Zimbabweans paints a stark contrast to the celebratory narrative. For the past 44 years, since 1980, under the reign of the Zanu PF regime, the dream of true freedom and independence has remained just that – a dream.

Instead of progress and prosperity, what we've witnessed is a descent into chaos orchestrated by a selfish and brutal government and its cronies. Ordinary Zimbabweans who have exercised their right to vote find nothing to celebrate but a laundry list of grievances.

The promise of freedom has been tarnished by rampant corruption, oppression, and violence. Journalists are abducted, citizens are killed in broad daylight, some disappear, and those who dare to speak out for freedom are silenced. The dream of a liberated Zimbabwe has morphed into a nightmare of fear and suffering.

Zanu PF's legacy is one of failure and betrayal. Despite numerous elections, the plight of the people remains unchanged. Different currencies come and go like the wind, but the suffering and brutality persist. Many Zimbabweans have been forced into exile, enduring hardship in foreign lands, while those left behind continue to struggle under the weight of broken promises and unfulfilled aspirations.

As we reflect on Zimbabwe's Independence Day today, let us not forget the voices of ordinary citizens who are wallowing in abject poverty and crying out for true freedom and justice. #ZimbabweIsNotIndependent is not just a hashtag; it's a rallying cry for change and for a Zimbabwe where every citizen can truly experience the independence they deserve.

#ZimbabweanLivesMatter

#ZimbabweIsNotIndependent

About the author
Sakhile Ncube is a human rights activist and a member of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe based in the United Kingdom. She can be contacted by email at jsakhile@yahoo.com