Opinion / Columnist
ZANU PF, A reminder that roles can change, and the law applies to all
11 hrs ago | Views
One reality continues to echo loud and clear, positions of power are not permanent and the law does not discriminate. The incarceration of former Foreign Affairs Minister Walter Mzembi is a typical example of how roles can shift and how those once seen as untouchable can find themselves at the mercy of the very justice system they once presided over.
Walter Mzembi, a senior figure during Zimbabwe's First Republic, once graced international forums, represented the nation on the global stage and held influential cabinet portfolios. Today, he finds himself in remand prison, a facility he and many others in leadership once neglected to upgrade into a true correctional centre. The irony is bitter but not surprising. For years, James Makamba and Temba Mliswa made calls to transform Zimbabwe's prisons into humane rehabilitation institutions rather than overcrowded holding cells. Those in power paid little heed, never imagining they would one day experience these conditions firsthand. Yet today, Mzembi is living within the very system he helped shape or, more accurately, failed to reform.
This is a moment that serve as a reflective wake-up call to those in ZANU PF and the broader political class. No matter the prestige, no matter the portfolio, positions are temporary. Today's minister could be tomorrow's accused. Today's high table guest could be tomorrow's remand prisoner. The lesson is clear, leadership must be exercised with integrity, foresight and accountability, ladies and gentlemen.
One enduring hallmark of the ZANU PF-led government, often overlooked by critics, is its stated commitment to the rule of law. The case of Walter Mzembi reaffirms this principle. The justice system, albeit imperfect and burdened, has shown a willingness to pursue individuals regardless of their past prominence. Mzembi's legal troubles reinforce the notion that no one is above the law, not even those who once operated at the heart of government.
This principle extends to all corners of society. If a man of Mzembi's stature can be detained and prosecuted, it stands to reason that others, regardless of their wealth, popularity, or perceived protection must also be held accountable. High-profile individuals such as businessman Wicknell Chivayo, who has had his time at remand prison and Chikurune Maximum Prison, is often been associated with the corridors of power, are equally subject to the law. However, rather than wait for the justice system to remind us of this equality, such individuals can choose to contribute meaningfully to national development. For instance, Chivayo, with his resources and influence, is well positioned to champion or even source funding for the much-needed modernisation of Zimbabwe's correctional facilities, transforming them into humane rehabilitation centres fit for a just and democratic society. Equality before the law is not merely a slogan enshrined in the Constitution; it is a reality that must be matched with action and responsibility.
This is not to celebrate anyone's downfall, but rather to remind those in power that Zimbabwe is a country with laws and institutions that should outlast any political party or administration. When leaders act with impunity, believing they are immune to accountability, they not only undermine public trust but also erode the very institutions meant to safeguard national stability.
The shifting fortunes of figures like Walter Mzembi should serve as a tale, not only for politicians but for every public official and businessperson who believes their current proximity to power grants them permanent immunity. Today you may control policy, command respect and enjoy state security. Tomorrow, you may stand in court, shackled not by politics but by the consequences of your own decisions.
ZANU PF members and their allies must not ignore the writing on the wall, roles change, alliances shift and the law remains. The wise will govern justly, prepare for tomorrow and never forget that the same door you walk through in power, you might walk through in prosecution.
In Zimbabwe, the wheel of justice turns slowly, but it does turn. Keep up the good work Justice will prevail.
Engineer Jacob Kudzayi Mutisi
WhatsApp:+263772278161 email: jmutisi@gmail.com
Walter Mzembi, a senior figure during Zimbabwe's First Republic, once graced international forums, represented the nation on the global stage and held influential cabinet portfolios. Today, he finds himself in remand prison, a facility he and many others in leadership once neglected to upgrade into a true correctional centre. The irony is bitter but not surprising. For years, James Makamba and Temba Mliswa made calls to transform Zimbabwe's prisons into humane rehabilitation institutions rather than overcrowded holding cells. Those in power paid little heed, never imagining they would one day experience these conditions firsthand. Yet today, Mzembi is living within the very system he helped shape or, more accurately, failed to reform.
This is a moment that serve as a reflective wake-up call to those in ZANU PF and the broader political class. No matter the prestige, no matter the portfolio, positions are temporary. Today's minister could be tomorrow's accused. Today's high table guest could be tomorrow's remand prisoner. The lesson is clear, leadership must be exercised with integrity, foresight and accountability, ladies and gentlemen.
One enduring hallmark of the ZANU PF-led government, often overlooked by critics, is its stated commitment to the rule of law. The case of Walter Mzembi reaffirms this principle. The justice system, albeit imperfect and burdened, has shown a willingness to pursue individuals regardless of their past prominence. Mzembi's legal troubles reinforce the notion that no one is above the law, not even those who once operated at the heart of government.
This principle extends to all corners of society. If a man of Mzembi's stature can be detained and prosecuted, it stands to reason that others, regardless of their wealth, popularity, or perceived protection must also be held accountable. High-profile individuals such as businessman Wicknell Chivayo, who has had his time at remand prison and Chikurune Maximum Prison, is often been associated with the corridors of power, are equally subject to the law. However, rather than wait for the justice system to remind us of this equality, such individuals can choose to contribute meaningfully to national development. For instance, Chivayo, with his resources and influence, is well positioned to champion or even source funding for the much-needed modernisation of Zimbabwe's correctional facilities, transforming them into humane rehabilitation centres fit for a just and democratic society. Equality before the law is not merely a slogan enshrined in the Constitution; it is a reality that must be matched with action and responsibility.
The shifting fortunes of figures like Walter Mzembi should serve as a tale, not only for politicians but for every public official and businessperson who believes their current proximity to power grants them permanent immunity. Today you may control policy, command respect and enjoy state security. Tomorrow, you may stand in court, shackled not by politics but by the consequences of your own decisions.
ZANU PF members and their allies must not ignore the writing on the wall, roles change, alliances shift and the law remains. The wise will govern justly, prepare for tomorrow and never forget that the same door you walk through in power, you might walk through in prosecution.
In Zimbabwe, the wheel of justice turns slowly, but it does turn. Keep up the good work Justice will prevail.
Engineer Jacob Kudzayi Mutisi
WhatsApp:+263772278161 email: jmutisi@gmail.com
Source - Engineer Jacob Kudzayi Mutisi
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