Clive Thabo Dube
THE OUSTER from power of the late former authoritarian President Robert Mugabe by the military in 2017, ending the 37 years of iron fist rule intended to bring a new dawn to Zimbabwe.
The ruling party ZANU-PF has for decades, even under the guise of the ‘Second Republic’, failed to deliver on economic promises dating back to 1980. Currently led by Emmerson Mnangangwa, the liberation party, during election season sings the same old song of economic revival without any practical applications.
Opposition parties and independent politicians have risen from the slumbers to try and tussle out Zanu-PF. A party which has ruled the nation since Independence, somewhat making Zimbabwe a one party state.
The 2018 elections saw over 23 presidential aspirants and formation of new political parties. The multiparty ballot battle brought restless nights for the ruling party, which has been used to battle it out with one opposition (MDC).
In order to limit the number of presidential candidates from the opposition, Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) stipulated exuberant fees. A few succeeded, one of them being Harry Peter Wilson, the leader of the Democratic Official Party (DOP) which amassed a paltry 0.10% of the counted votes in 2018.
Coming in for the second round, Wilson believes the dire economic crisis can be improved through prioritization of the education sector, creation of employment, infrastructure development, and plucking out corruption.
“I believe that education is the great equalizer, and l am resolute in my commitment to providing accessible, quality education to all Zimbabwean children. By investing in our schools, equipping our teachers, and empowering our students, we will unlock the potential of future generations. Ensuring that no talent goes untapped.” Said Wilson.
The 62 year old politician said through DOP, conducive entrepreneurship and innovation environment will flourish and through infrastructural development, jobs will be created.
He added that if he won the election, he will eradicate corruption.
“Equally important is the eradication of corruption, and establishment of transparent governance. Corruption hampers progress, undermines trust, exacerbates inequalities.”
Politicians are known to make promises during election season to lure in voters, the electoral commission fails to hold those disinforming voters accountable. As it stands, false and unachievable campaign promises are mostly spread in Zimbabwe’s rural communities, the ruling party’s strong hold.
Throughout history, aspiring candidates have failed to deliver on these campaign promises either elected or not. Failing to learn from experience, voters continue to believe the same message.
Heading into August 23, older voters’ political dissatisfaction continues to grow. We await on whether the ruling party Zanu-PF and opposition parties will be as hyped and deliver in the pre-post election period.
Zim GBC News©2023