In recent decades, Zimbabwe's security sector has undergone a transformation that has far-reaching implications for our nation's governance, democracy and human rights. The exploitation of the security sector, particularly the military and police, has become a critical issue that affects not only our societies but also the very essence of our democratic institutions.
The roots of the current situation can be traced back to Zimbabwe's liberation struggle, where the military played a pivotal role in securing independence from colonial rule. Post-independence, the military was envisioned as a protector of the state, with a mandate to ensure national security and safeguard the country's sovereignty. However, over time, this mandate has been outright distorted.
The 1980s saw the infamous Gukurahundi massacres, where the military was deployed against civilian populations in Matabeleland, leading to the deaths of an estimated 20,000 people. This dark chapter in Zimbabwe's history highlighted the beginning of the security sector's exploitation, as it was used to suppress political dissent and consolidate power for the ruling party, ZANU-PF. The scars of Gukurahundi still linger and the lack of accountability for these atrocities has set a dangerous precedent for the unchecked use of military force. It was indeed a moment of madness in our nation’s history.
In the years that followed, the security sector increasingly became a tool of political control rather than a neutral entity dedicated to national security. The military's involvement in the controversial land reform program of the early 2000s and the violent suppression of opposition during the 2008 elections are clear examples of how the security forces have been co-opted to serve the interests of the ruling elite.
The 2017 military intervention, which led to the ousting of Robert Mugabe and the installation of Emmerson Mnangagwa as President, further entrenched the military's role in governance. While this event was initially celebrated by many Zimbabweans as a potential turning point, it has since become clear that the military's involvement in politics has only deepened, leading to the erosion of civilian control over the government. The exploitation of the security sector has had devastating consequences for human rights in Zimbabwe.
The Constitution of Zimbabwe, particularly Sections 208 and 213, clearly outline the apolitical nature of the security forces and restrict their involvement in politics. However, these provisions have been routinely ignored, leading to widespread human rights abuses.The military and police have been implicated in the arbitrary arrest, torture and intimidation of opposition members, activists and ordinary citizens. The heavy-handed response to peaceful protests, such as those seen in January 2019 and July 2020, where security forces used excessive force against unarmed civilians, has further highlighted the systematic abuse of power. The security sector's exploitation has also undermined the principles of democracy. The militarisation of elections, where security forces are used to intimidate voters and opposition candidates, has rendered the electoral process in Zimbabwe neither free nor fair. This has led to a growing disillusionment among Zimbabweans, who feel that their voices are being silenced and their democratic rights are being trampled upon.
Beyond political control, the security sector has also been exploited for economic gain. Senior military officials have been accused of benefiting from Zimbabwe's vast mineral resources, particularly diamonds, through corrupt practices and illicit activities. This economic exploitation not only enriches a select few but also deprives the nation of much-needed resources that could be used to address pressing issues such as poverty, unemployment and healthcare.
As we reflect on the state of our nation, it is clear that the exploitation of the security sector poses a grave threat to Zimbabwe's future. The United Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA) calls for comprehensive security sector reform to restore the sector's integrity and ensure that it serves the people of Zimbabwe rather than the interests of the few elite.
Zimbabwe's true heroes are those who stand up for justice, democracy and the rule of law. It is time to honour their legacy by building a nation where the security sector is a guardian of the people's rights and freedoms, not a tool of oppression. Only through such reforms can we hope to achieve a Zimbabwe that is truly united, free and prosperous.
