The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
Hopes that the July 30 election would mark a new chapter for Zimbabwe were quickly dashed when soldiers opened fire on protesters in Harare even before the results of the presidential race were announced.
Six people were killed — triggering global outrage and undermining efforts to re-brand Mnangagwa, a veteran 76-year-old ZANU-PF loyalist, as a fresh face.
The election result was also engulfed by accusations of fraud and opposition supporters and activists have since complained about constant harassment.
“If anything, things are getting worse,” said Ibbo Mandaza, head of the Southern African Political and Economic Series Trust think-tank.
“Mnangagwa had the opportunity to redeem his reputation but this has not happened. The election shootings and the rigged vote blew away that chance.”
ZANU-PF defends Mnangagwa’s first-year record.
“There has been pronounced freedom and democracy,” party spokesman Simon Khaya Moyo insisted.
“The economy is also showing signs of growth with many foreign businesses interested in investing. We have had hordes of foreign tourists. Those are clear signs that things have changed.”
The opposition Movement for Democratic Change disagrees.
“Shortages continue unabated and the government continues to intensify the suffering of people,” spokesman Jacob Mafume told AFP.
