In the heart of Southern Africa, Zimbabwe’s political narrative is being rewritten under the controversial leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Since his ascension to power, Mnangagwa’s tenure has been marred by a series of constitutional breaches, casting a long shadow over the country’s commitment to democracy and the rule of law.
Mnangagwa’s rise to power in 2017, widely regarded as a military coup, set a troubling precedent. The Zimbabwean judiciary’s passive acceptance of this upheaval underscored a systemic disregard for constitutional mandates. This was particularly evident when Mnangagwa bypassed the constitutional provision for Phelekezela Mphoko to assume interim leadership, signaling a cavalier attitude towards the nation’s legal framework.
The controversies didn’t end there. The legitimacy of Mnangagwa’s presidency continued to be questioned following disputed general elections, marred by allegations of irregularities and the involvement of compromised judges. The formation of an unconstitutional cabinet, including phantom provincial ministers, and the failure to appoint a State Security or Intelligence minister further raised alarms about the administration’s dedication to upholding constitutional norms.
Adding to the litany of governance issues, the recent scandal involving the Football Association of Zimbabwe (FAZ) and the apparent conflict of interest of Justice Loice Matanda Moyo in these matters has deepened concerns about the independence of Zimbabwe’s judiciary.
The cumulative impact of these actions by Mnangagwa’s administration is stark. It’s not just a series of isolated incidents but a systemic disregard for constitutional norms and procedures. This pattern of governance is eroding the pillars of Zimbabwe’s democratic institutions, diminishing the government’s legitimacy, and shaking public trust in the state’s capacity to govern justly.
The potential implications of these continuous breaches are significant. Each violation chips away at the foundation of Mnangagwa’s government, exposing him to the threat of impeachment. Political opponents and civil society groups could leverage these constitutional breaches as a basis for impeachment proceedings, presenting Mnangagwa’s governance as a direct threat to the rule of law and democratic integrity in Zimbabwe.
In conclusion, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s tenure represents a significant departure from constitutional governance and democratic principles. From the questionable legitimacy of his ascent to power to the recent scandal involving the appointment of General Sibanda, Mnangagwa’s presidency is increasingly defined by constitutional transgressions. These actions not only threaten the stability and legitimacy of his government but also endanger the democratic fabric of Zimbabwe. As the situation continues to develop, the specter of impeachment looms, underscoring the escalating dissatisfaction with Mnangagwa’s approach to leadership and his respect for the rule of law.