By Anesu Pedzisayi
The sanctions’ debate in Zimbabwe will always remain an emotive issue to citizens for various reasons. Not only have they hampered the country’s economic progress, but also caused irreparable damage to most Zimbabwean livelihoods. However, Government and other supportive stakeholders have been making frantic efforts to ensure the economy is revived, despite being isolated and cut off through sanctions.
Recently, Econet founder and Executive Chair, Strive Masiyiwa, had an interview on CNBC Africa, where he called for the removal of sanctions, describing them as unjustified and said that Zimbabwe deserved a chance. He also said that President Mnangagwa was sincere in the things he wanted to do, therefore it was imperative that the country gets support from local and international players.
These sentiments have been shared before by African Union Chairperson and Rwandan leader, Paul Kagame, who, during United Nations General Assembly held in New York, said that President Mnangagwa needed to be given a chance so that Zimbabwe would progress.
What is of importance from the two mentioned above, is the focus on rebuilding the country, ending the country’s isolation as well as having confidence in the leadership to redress the economic challenges that the country is currently confronted with. National interests have to be put first by all citizens, regardless of economic standing and political affiliation.
What is disheartening is the barrage of criticism that is coming from opposition, especially MDC supporters, who are bent on having the sanctions and the country’s isolation remain in place, simply because their leader, Nelson Chamisa is not the one at the helm. They seem to be ignorant of the fact that economic sanctions have ripple effects, more so down to the ordinary citizen, who is not protected by the same Chamisa who is only keen on realising personal gains.
Opposition politicians should be cognisant of the fact that now is the time to further mature politics, development and progress. Individuals should not try to fulfil personal political agendas through pushing for measures that affect the ordinary person on the ground. If individuals campaign for the removal of economic sanctions, or supports any progressive move that is in line with the Government’s agenda, he does not have to be an enemy of the opposition. Neither should it be seen as retrogressive when one does not disagree or support the opposition.
It would also be wise for the opposition and it’s supporters to bear in mind Dr Thokozani Khupe’s words that opposition should put forward ideas on how to solve the problems the country faces. Dr Khupe summed it up well when she said, “it should not just be about power but all Zimbabweans who want a better life, but if we pull in different directions, it is not going to help any of us. The people who suffer are our followers; let us talk about the future.”
It is the same reason why President Mnangagwa has been engaging with all critical sectors that have influence on the economy, including the business community so that positive trajectories are forged. National development and economic growth should be everyone’s focus. Support towards Government should not be defined by political affiliation, but should come out of patriotism and a hope to create a better livelihood for all Zimbabweans.
There is need for all citizens to change their mentality so as to have a positive outlook of their future. There is also need to do away with the mentality that anybody who does not toe the line of opposition ideology is wrong, if the country is to move forward. At this time, Government needs all the support from all corners to create an environment that fosters growth, investor participation and diverse dynamic regeneration of the economy. At the end of it all, Zimbabweans can choose to be visionaries with future orientation, where national interests will be a priority.
