Zimbabwe has a long history of having very few true patriots. But there are always a few brave people who stand up against tyranny and show true leadership. From historical figures like Nehanda and Chitepo to more recent ones like Tsvangirai and Mamombe, these courageous individuals have caught the attention of those seeking enlightenment. However, standing up against the oppressive Zanu PF regime on an individual level has proven to be very costly, as seen in the tragic case of Dzamara. Yet, hope remains in the form of institutions that dare to defy the status quo.
In the battle against the cruel Zanu PF regime, which disregards human life, organizations like the Young Lawyers Association of Zimbabwe (YALZ) and Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) play a crucial role. While the stakes are high for individuals who dare to challenge the system, institutions have a unique advantage. Unlike individuals, they cannot be easily silenced, and they maintain momentum that undermines the regime’s unconstitutional choices. They serve as a strong deterrent against Zanu PF’s futile pursuit of a one-party state.
YALZ and ZLHR have made it clear that the constitution is the people’s will and cannot be ignored by any entity, including Zanu PF. These institutions hold the constitution as sacred, protecting the people’s interests and ensuring that their will remains preserved. Their relentless efforts have given hope to the people, proving that Zanu PF is like a paper dragon, cowering before the fiery power of the constitution. This power is wielded by impartial, nonpartisan, and independent judges who understand their duty as protectors of the constitution.
The brave judges within these institutions are rare leaders, risking everything to uphold what is right. They courageously stand against the disintegration of the constitution, preventing Zanu PF’s chaos and lawlessness. As human rights NGOs, they have become the defenders of constitutionalism in an increasingly shrinking democratic space. YALZ and ZLHR understand that the constitution reflects the people’s will. But with Zanu PF targeting and demobilizing the population, the people are unable to protect their own constitution and safeguard their interests.
It is important to emphasize that YALZ and ZLHR are not partisan or unpatriotic. In fact, they are among the most patriotic citizens, recognizing the urgent need to fill the void of a vanguard that monitors and deters the mutilation of the constitution. This is especially crucial in a context of widespread political alienation and disenfranchisement. Their actions stem from a deep fear of Zanu PF’s cruelty, which seeks to prolong suffering and misery to retain illegitimate power and feed its malevolent ego, inevitably harming the average Zimbabwean.
For their unwavering dedication in challenging the oppressive Zanu PF regime, Zimbabweans deeply appreciate the efforts of YALZ and ZLHR. These organizations risk everything to protect the sanctity of the constitution, uphold the rule of law, and strive for a society free from paralyzing fear. Their bravery and commitment shine a beacon of hope in a country that yearns for true patriots to lead the way towards a brighter future.