This is the final blog for the second semester of 2009 International Relations course on the current situation in Zimbabwe. In closure of the blog project, this analysis will consist of articles providing some sort of outlook on the future of the Republic of Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe Activist Freed on Bail
In the previous blog concerning Zimbabwe, the unjust imprisonment of innocent activists and opposition party supporters was discussed. On May 6th, fourteen of eighteen activists were released from prison on bail, including a leading human rights campaigner, Jestina Mukoko. This was the second time they had been arrested since December 2008. Whether or not these particular activists were innocent has not yet been determined by Zimbabwe’s court of law. The released activists “face charges of plotting to overthrow President Mugabe.” However, as mentioned, arrests of this type revealing innocent detainees are not uncommon in Zimbabwe. The unity government has been affected by these arrests, as “western donors have demanded the unity government demonstrate effective power sharing and that political prisoners be freed before they open their wallets.”
Fragile Signs of Hope Emerging in the Gloom of Mugabe’s Rule
As mentioned in the last sentence of the previous article summary, primary donors in the West are demanding changes and cooperation by the unified Zimbabwean government. These donor countries struggle with the idea that the millions of dollars going into Zimbabwean may only be “propping up Mr. Mugabe, feeding his patronage machine and extend his disastrous three decades in power. But this money is desperately needed in Zimbabwe.
As donors have begun refueling Zimbabwe’s economy, grocery stores have been full and schools are reopening. Last year, the majority of Zimbabwean teachers left their jobs as hyperinflation boomed and their paychecks became worthless. Now, the teachers have agreed to come back to work with a mere $100 monthly pay. However, if they do not see a pay increase soon, many, including the minister of education, fear they may leave again.
The reopening of schools is a glimmer of hope for the country. There are also many other “signs of hope” Zimbabwe is heading in the right directions. “Never before has ZANU-PF been so weak” or has the opposition party been in office. There are still diplomats suggesting Mugabe will most likely “sabotage the power-deal and the infusion of Western aid.” This article provides an example of Robert Mugabe’s attempt to manipulate government newcomers, in that he offered every new minister a brand new Mercedes. Some members of the opposition party turned down the luxury vehicle, while others justified accepting the offer claiming, “I know it’s not a good excuse, but will I make a difference if I turn this down?” In my opinion, the opposition would have made a stronger statement through collectively turning down the offer.
Zimbabwe Finance Minister Biti Voices Satisfaction at Washington Contacts and Window’s of Opportunity
Zimbabwe’s new Finance Minister, Hon. Tendai Biti, member of the MDC, also mentioned “window’s of opportunity” at a forum last week. At the forum, Biti expressed his contentment with the contracts discussed with the Obama administration on April 27th. Biti, faced with the job of “resuscitating the country’s collapsed economy”, is relying on potential US support and aid on behalf of his country.
“U.S. officials have repeatedly stated that Washington will not extend aid beyond humanitarian assistance to development or reconstruction funding until there is clear evidence Harare has undertaken meaningful reform on human rights, the rule of law and other issues.”This being said, hopefully Zimbabwe will see change and cooperation between the Prime Minister and the President, the ZANU-PF and the MDC. The International Fund Board will also be considering and evaluating the situation in Zimbabwe.
There is potential for the country. Optimism can be found in parliament, which is divided, almost evenly, by the two major parties; developments being made in rural areas; and the newly established voice of Zimbabwean citizens who can now hold their elected officials accountable. However, until major collaboration emerges from the power-sharing deal, the country will remain in somewhat of a gridlock.
