THE DEADLY SHADOWS OF FACTIONALISM: A LOOK INTO ZIMBABWE’S POLITICAL UNDERWORLD

In the complex tapestry of Zimbabwe’s political landscape, the recent death of a businessman linked to the controversial Scarfmore and the notorious political party Zanu PF underscores a deep-seated issue far beyond mere corruption. This incident is not just another narrative of power misuse; it’s a glaring spotlight on the lethal factionalism within Zanu PF, a party that has been at the helm of Zimbabwe’s governance, steering the country into a state of despair and dysfunction.

Zanu PF, long criticized for its governance marred by corruption and authoritarianism, is at the center of this unfolding drama. The party, described by many as a congregation of out-of-touch, senile old men and women, has been blamed for the country’s spiraling crisis. However, the focus here is not merely on the corruption endemic within its ranks but on the deadly factional battles that have recently led to the controversial deaths of key figures such as Moyo and Shiri. The blaze at senior politician Chinamasa’s residence only adds to the intrigue, suggesting that the fires of factionalism are burning brighter and more dangerously than ever.

The untimely demise of the businessman, once closely associated with Scarfmore and, by extension, with the criminal elements within Zanu PF, is a testament to the perilous path Zimbabwe is treading. Logic dictates that this incident, seemingly a natural death, is intricately tied to the worsening factionalism within the party, a dire situation that threatens to plunge the country into civil unrest or even collapse.

The root of this factionalism is not hard to trace. It stems from a deep-seated struggle for power within Zanu PF, a battle that sees no bounds in its quest for dominance. This internal warfare has not only exposed the country to the risk of a civil war but has also paralyzed it, making a mockery of the rule of law and the very foundations of democracy.

Zimbabwe’s plight is further exacerbated by a Zanu PF-led assault on the constitution, enabled by a rigged parliamentary majority and a colluding judiciary. This has led to the expulsion of opposition members who stood against the party’s tyrannical maneuvers to centralize power. In this environment, where the rule of law is sidelined, and the judiciary is compromised, Zanu PF members plunder the state’s resources with impunity.

The tragic fate of the businessman is a stark reminder of the dangerous game of power within Zanu PF. It reflects a grim reality where allegiance to the wrong faction can prove fatal. The incident is emblematic of a broader issue: the use of proxies in the factional battles within Zanu PF, a strategy that not only endangers the lives of individuals but also the stability of the nation. The message is clear – in the treacherous waters of Zanu PF politics, no one is safe.

As Zimbabwe stands at this precarious juncture, the need for a democratic transition has never been more urgent. The hope lies in the resilience of opposition forces and the possibility of a peaceful shift towards liberal democracy. This transition is crucial not only for the restoration of the rule of law and genuine governance but also for the very survival of Zimbabwe as a nation.

In conclusion, the death of the businessman linked to Scarfmore and Zanu PF is not just a tale of personal tragedy but a symptom of the deep-seated factionalism that threatens to tear Zimbabwe apart. As the country navigates these turbulent waters, the world watches, hoping for a peaceful resolution that will steer Zimbabwe away from the brink of collapse and towards a future of stability and democratic governance.