An Overview of Zimbabwe’s Political and Economic Track 1980-2020

Zimbabwe has undergone remarkable political and economic changes since its liberation from British colonial rule in 1980. The first years after independence were characterised by optimism and progress. However, the nation also faced a plethora of hurdles, including political instability, economic decline and social unrest. Over time, the political environment became increasingly repressive. One cannot help but say that ZANU-PF as a whole has failed to meet the needs of Zimbabwean citizens. Zimbabwe continues to struggle with economic hurdles, political volatility, policy gaps, misgovernance, corruption, soaring inflation, unemployment and the need for sustainable reforms. The transition from colonialism to post-colonialism was characterised by violence and politicised identities, leading to false starts and repetition in the political landscape over the years. The situation in Zimbabwe is best described as from the gutter to the sewer. The Mnangagwa regime, which took over from Mugabe has made the situation worse for the citizens of Zimbabwe. Despite the holding of elections in 2018 and 2023, the political landscape in Zimbabwe remains tumultuous, characterised by intricate power struggles and counter-plots within the ruling party, ZANU-PF. The prevailing political culture has evolved into a labyrinthine and violent milieu, surpassing even the tumultuous nature witnessed during Mugabe's tenure. It is evident that the Mnangagwa regime is an outgrowth of Mugabeism, with the so-called Second Republic failing to effectuate a definitive departure from the Mugabe era.Munangagwa has not only failed to demilitarise the state, but has exacerbated militarisation, officially integrating the military into the nation’s political fabric.