Natalie Nyathi
In a recent virtual address from Botswana, former President Ian Khama criticized Zimbabwe’s ruling Zanu PF party and its governance, comparing the current situation to the colonial era of Rhodesia under Ian Smith. His remarks were made at the launch of Footprints in the Chains: The Life Story of Job Sikhala, a biography of the Zimbabwean opposition politician, held in Harare.
Khama, unable to attend in person due to logistical challenges, stated that little has changed in Zimbabwe under Zanu PF, and in some ways, things have worsened. He said, “The only thing that changed was the name of the country and that of its leaders. The rest remains the same. Many Zimbabweans leave the country for the same reasons as before, because of a new elite that amasses wealth for their own benefit while the masses suffer.” Khama has long criticized Zimbabwe’s leadership for moving away from democratic values.
He highlighted a new generation of freedom fighters, including Job Sikhala, who he described as a brave advocate for democracy facing oppression from the government. Sikhala, known as “Wiwa,” has been arrested multiple times for opposing government policies. Khama urged the government to recognize the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Opposition leader Nelson Chamisa praised Khama’s speech as a strong show of support for Zimbabwe’s pro-democracy movement. Sikhala also commended Khama, calling him a champion of democracy in Africa and beyond, and noted that Zimbabwe has not experienced true freedom since its independence in 1980.
The book launch was attended by key figures from the original Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), highlighting growing frustration with Zimbabwe’s political situation and a renewed push for democratic reforms. The biography, written by Pastor Munyaradzi Angero Savanhu, aims to reflect on Zimbabwe’s journey since independence, focusing on perseverance and the fight for justice. A ZANU-PF youth leader even bought the book for $760, encouraging Sikhala to join ZANU-PF.
Zimbabwe has faced political and economic challenges, with a history of disputed elections and human rights violations. The ZANU-PF has dominated the country’s politics since 1980, with critics accusing the party of suppressing opposition and maintaining power through intimidation.