Political Correspondent
HARARE – ZANU PF Member of Parliament for Zvimba South, Taurai Malinganiso, has sparked controversy after declaring that labeling Zimbabwe as “full of corruption” without proof constitutes an “unpatriotic act” that harms the country’s image.
Speaking in the National Assembly on Wednesday, Malinganiso argued that such criticism amounts to “wrong marketing” and demonstrates a lack of loyalty to the nation.
“Without fear or favor, saying Zimbabwe is corrupt without evidence is a lack of patriotism,” Malinganiso asserted.
“We must promote our country, not tarnish its name.”
Patriotism Law Raises Fears of Crackdown on Dissent
His remarks come weeks after President Emmerson Mnangagwa signed the Criminal Law Codification and Reform Amendment Act, 2023—dubbed the “Patriotic Act”—into law on July 14, 2024.
The legislation imposes severe penalties, including the death sentence, for actions deemed to undermine national interests. It also grants the government sweeping powers to monitor and suppress political organizations, activists, and journalists critical of the state.
Government officials insist the law is necessary to protect Zimbabwe from “malicious falsehoods” and foreign interference. However, critics warn it will stifle free speech and entrench repression.
Human Rights Groups Condemn “Draconian” Measures
Human rights organizations have slammed the legislation, arguing that Zimbabwe’s history of political persecution makes such laws dangerous.
“This law is a tool to silence opposition under the guise of patriotism,” said RightsMatter ZW director.
“Instead of addressing corruption, the government is criminalizing dissent.”
The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) also warned that the act could be abused to target government critics, citing past cases where anti-corruption activists and journalists faced arrest for exposing graft.
Public Reaction Mixed
While some citizens support the MP’s stance, others argue that denying corruption does not make it disappear.
“If corruption is a lie, why arrest whistleblowers?” asked Harare vendor Tinashe Moyo.
“Real patriots demand accountability, not blind loyalty.”
As debates over patriotism and free speech intensify, analysts fear the new law could further isolate Zimbabwe internationally while deepening its democratic backsliding.
“This isn’t about patriotism—it’s about control,” said political analyst Rejoice Ngwenya.
“A government confident in its integrity doesn’t need laws to punish critics.”
With Zimbabwe’s 2028 elections looming, the Patriotic Act is expected to play a central role in shaping the political landscape—raising concerns over whether fair opposition will still be possible.
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