Mthwakazi struggle far from over

The Mthwakazi Republic Party (MRP) has called on African leaders and the African Union (AU) to prioritise the unfinished business of liberation and self-determination for all marginalised communities across the continent, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by the Mthwakazi people in Zimbabwe.

In a statement issued during Africa Day commemorations, MRP president Mqondisi Moyo urged African countries to acknowledge the historical injustices committed against the Mthwakazi community and take concrete steps to address their grievances.

"For many marginalised communities, including the Mthwakazi people, the struggle is far from over," Moyo said. "We continue to face systemic marginalisation, human rights abuses, and denial of our right to self-determination."

He called on AU to live up to the original vision of its predecessor, the Organisation of African Unity, which was instrumental in fostering unity, independence, and solidarity on the continent.

"The strength and resilience demonstrated by African nations have propelled them towards significant achievements in democracy, peace, and socio-economic development," Moyo noted. "However, the African Union's support for indigenous and marginalised communities within Africa's independent nations has been marked by a troubling silence, underscoring a lack of meaningful action and solidarity."

Moyo criticised the AU for shifting from being a champion of human rights and justice to becoming a platform that protects ruling elites at the expense of marginalised and indigenous communities.

"This transformation has resulted in an organisation that prioritises the interests of ruling parties over the needs and rights of the people it was meant to serve," he said. "This has profound implications for AU's ability to effectively address human rights abuses, corruption, and social injustices."

Highlighting the plight of the Mthwakazi people, Moyo described decades of systemic marginalisation and oppression they have suffered in Zimbabwe, including the legacy of the Gukurahundi genocide, which claimed over 20,000 lives.

"The geographical and cultural separation between Mashonaland and Matabeleland reflects distinct identities and experiences," he said. "Yet the Mthwakazi people continue to face barriers to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and disenfranchisement."

He urged the African Union to acknowledge these historical injustices and take meaningful action to ensure the Mthwakazi community can determine its own future.

"We demand respect, recognition, and the right to be heard," Moyo said. "The Mthwakazi people deserve dignity and justice. It is AU's responsibility to protect and promote our rights. We will continue to fight for freedom and self-determination and expect the AU to support us in this struggle."

The MRP's call underscores ongoing challenges faced by indigenous and marginalised groups across Africa, urging continental institutions to reaffirm their commitment to liberation and human rights for all.