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
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