Pushing back on Zimbabwe's regression

By Simbarashe Jingo.

the midst of Zimbabwe's political, economic, and social turmoil, the country had become increasingly inhospitable for its citizens. Ordinary people were bearing the brunt of the suffering, while opposition political activists found themselves targeted and oppressed. Human rights campaigners raised their voices in concern over the widespread demolition of houses, a move that left countless families homeless and vulnerable.

Among the victims of the recent land grab orchestrated by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, commonly known as ED, and his son, was Virginia Mutyambizi. She spoke out against the injustice, expressing her determination to organize petitions to international bodies such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and the United Nations, urging them to intervene. With a heavy heart, Virginia shared her personal experience, "We are organizing petitions to the US, UK, UN, and other international bodies to intervene. My house in Domboshava was demolished, and I had lived there for over 20 years."

Greatman Makipa echoed Virginia's concerns, shedding light on another issue plaguing the country: the unchecked digging for gold by top politicians. In their relentless pursuit of the precious metal, these politicians were ravaging the nation's natural resources, causing unprecedented environmental damage. Greatman's voice trembled with worry as he stated, "The digging of every corner of the country by top politicians looking for gold is a grave concern. It is causing environmental damage to an unprecedented level."

As the suffering continued to escalate, several individuals, including Kelvin Thembinkosi Mhlanga, Ronald Mutumbi, Basil Kamombe, Simbarashe Jingo, Daisy Elizabeth Mandianike, Tendai Mapfumo, Ketiwe Dahwa, and Letween Gusha, resolved to take action. They shared their plans for future campaigns and protests outside the Zimbabwe embassy, determined to shed light on the crisis and pressure the government to address the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding within the country's borders.

Kelvin Thembinkosi Mhlanga spoke passionately about their mission, saying, "We will continue our campaigns and protests outside the Zimbabwe embassy, demanding justice for the demolition of houses and the illegal mining of gold. The current situation is dire, and our voices must be heard."

The dire situation and the government's silence prompted attempts to seek official comments from the Ministry of Lands. However, they chose not to provide any response, further deepening the sense of desperation and frustration.

Daisy Elizabeth Mandianike, a tireless human rights activist, expressed her disappointment, "The suffering of ordinary citizens and the targeting of opposition activists cannot be ignored. We need international attention and action to address the humanitarian crisis in Zimbabwe."

The plight of the ordinary citizens, the persecution of opposition activists, and the wanton destruction of homes had created an unbearable atmosphere in Zimbabwe. The country stood at a crossroads, desperately in need of international intervention and assistance to alleviate the suffering and restore justice.

It was a time of uncertainty, fear, and determination as the people of Zimbabwe fought for their rights, their homes, and their future in the face of immense adversity.