In-Depth Analysis with Lloyd Takawira
Lloyd Takawira is Freelance Writer / Publicist / Blogger / Research Consultant as well as Political and Social Analyst
Friday, December 27, 2024
Lessons from a Cybersecurity Nightmares
Monday, May 20, 2024
From Zimbabwe to Georgia: A Global Trend of Repressive Legislation
A
wave of repressive legislation restricting NGOs and media freedoms around the
world is slowly crippling in sending shivers down the spine of those who
believe in an egalitarian society. Is dictatorship winning? From Georgia's recent "foreign
agents" law to the Private Voluntary Bill in Zimbabwe, repressive regimes
are employing these laws to silence criticism and tighten their grip on power.
By Llyoyd Takawira (ZW)
For
several weeks, tens of thousands of Georgians have been protesting the “foreign
agent’s bill”, which many believe will lead to crackdowns on civil society and
the media and prevent the country from joining the European Union
Echoes of Authoritarianism: The Case of Zimbabwe
It
must be noted that, just like Georgia, Zimbabwe is coming up with a PVO
Amendment Bill. The bill according to critics mirrors exactly Georgia's
controversial law. Just like the Foreign Agents law in Georgia which requires
NGOs and media outlets receiving foreign funding to register as "foreign
agents," a label reminiscent of the Cold War era, the PVO bill in Zimbabwe
seeks to have the government over-meddling in the registration and management
of non-governmental organizations.
Pro-democracy human rights in Zimbabwe and
Georgia have raised serious concerns about the repressive laws, questioning the
motive behind such egregious laws. They argue that while the government
reserves the right to monitor non-state actors, its mandate must not,
therefore, restrict the operations of complementary actors.
The
Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), says it fears the law will stifle
civil society's ability to hold the government accountable. True to the fears
of the ZLHR, a vibrant civil society is essential for any democracy. It must be
noted that independent media is a cornerstone of a free society. The PVO Bill
threatens media outlets that rely on foreign funding, potentially hindering
investigative journalism and diverse viewpoints.
Furthermore,
it must be noted that the bill evokes memories of the repressive Smith regime
in Zimbabwe's past. Its monthly assessment, Accountability Lab Zimbabwe
Director, Dr McDonald Lewanika argues that a historical analysis of the PVO
Bill shows how previous iterations of the PVO Act were used to silence dissent.
"If you don't know the motivation, you won't know the implications." Lewanika
highlighted how this Act has been influenced by major political events, such as
the Economic Structural Adjustment Program, parliamentary elections in 2000,
presidential elections in 2002, the unpopular constitutional referendum, and
the devastating drought in Zimbabwe.
Why the heavy hand of violence in the ongoing public hearings:
Over
the past few days, there has been an orgy of violence with suspected ruling
Zanu PF party members, resorting to violence to disrupt public hearings on the
PVO Bill. Incidents in Masvingo, Chinhoyi, Gweru, Harare, and, Epworth paint a
harrowing picture of intimidation and suppression of public participation. Suspected Zanu PF supporters have been on a
rampage disrupting public hearings on the highly divisive Private Voluntary
Organisations (PVO) Amendment Bill.
Suspected,
Zanu PF hostile group members have been taking turns to voice their support for
the government-sponsored draft legislation, viewed by the opposition and civil
society as an attempt by the Zanu PF-led authority to meddle in the affairs of
NGOs that have kept the state under scrutiny in terms of rights violations and
poll fraud, among other violations.
“Vasingade ngavabude muZimbabwe. Bill redu torida muZimbabwe! (Dissenters should leave the country. We want our Bill),”. Zanu PF youths would chant opposing contributions by those with differing views.
Even
esteemed Members of the joint Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Public
Service, Labour and Social Welfare, and Thematic Committee on Gender
Development who are conducting the hearings have not been spared from the
violence.
So
dire is the situation that even the media has come under attack from the ruling
party in Zimbabwe. According to Newsday Zimbabwe, the ruling Zanu PF youth
leader Mr Taurai Kandishaya. Threatened to “deal with” NewsDay after a
journalist had called him asking about his possible links to rowdy crowds that
have been disrupting countrywide Private Voluntary Organizations (PVO)
Amendment Bill hearings. “Write whatever you want, but I will come and deal
with you, personally,” he retorted.” I am not going to comment on that.
“Even
if you say I was also seen in Botswana disrupting the meetings that is it. You
only saw me at Ambassador.”
A
Global Phenomenon:
Zimbabwe
and Georgia are not alone. Many countries are witnessing a rise in legislation
aimed at curbing dissent: Many wonder where this is coming from.
#Russia's
playbook: The Georgian law is explicitly modeled after a similar law in Russia,
highlighting a concerning trend of replicating authoritarian tactics.
Motivations behind the Repression:
The
motivations for these repressive bills are complex, but often include:
- Clinging to Power: Authoritarian regimes may see NGOs and independent media as threats to their control. By restricting their activities, they hope to consolidate power.
- Stifling Criticism: A free press and vocal civil society can expose corruption and human rights abuses. These laws aim to silence those critical voices.
- Demonizing Foreign Influence: By labeling NGOs and media as "foreign agents," these regimes attempt to discredit them and deflect blame for the country's problems.
The
Fight for Democracy: A Global Call to Action
It
is worthwhile noting and refreshing that in the face of trial, the world is not
silent. The global community has been standing and must stand together against
this erosion of democratic values.
In
an impassionate plea, NED President and CEO Damon Wilson, called out on the
Georgian government to rescind the foreign lobbying act, On May 14, Georgia’s
Parliament passed a controversial law that would brand NGOs and media
organizations receiving foreign funding as “foreign agents.”
The
Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) is deeply troubled by the Georgian
parliament’s vote on Tuesday to adopt the controversial Russian-style “foreign
agents” law that could target foreign-funded media operating in the country.
“The
passage of ‘foreign agent’ legislation by the ruling Georgian Dream party,
despite significant public opposition, is set to stifle media freedom in the
lead-up to the parliamentary elections in October,” said Gulnoza Said, CPJ’s
Europe and Central Asia program coordinator.
In
an article in the Journal for Democracy,
Ghia Nodia branded the new
Georgian law as “Russia’s law” for its similarities to Putin’s own version.
Ghia
Nodia writing in the Journal of
Democracy argued that the country’s only
hope for safeguarding its democratic freedoms.
• International Pressure: Democratic
nations can pressure Zimbabwe and other repressive regimes to withdraw these
bills and uphold their international human rights commitments.
• Supporting Civil Society:
Organizations like the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) can provide
critical support to NGOs and independent media in these countries.
• Raising Awareness: Shining a light on
these repressive tactics through media coverage and advocacy campaigns can help
de-legitimize them.
The
world cannot afford to be silent in the face of these assaults on democracy. By
standing together in support of civil society and press freedom, we can send a
powerful message that the flame of liberty will not be extinguished.
Saturday, March 16, 2024
Of sects and doomsday cults: Who will save us from Religious fanaticism
We do not attack people as reported by people who are fighting us. Our children, as well as our wives, are not comfortable seeing people holding guns. The team was led to a cemetery where shallow graves were dug around an anthill.
Dear reader, you may recall another disturbing case in 2016, where one Prophet Sanyangore, is said to have made his congregants drink urine as a form of "holy water". The controversial man of cloth admitted to have made his congregants drink raw sewage while clearing ground at his church stand along Seke Road. Speaking to H-Metro, the preacher said it was just a display of faith that everything is possible through the power of the Lord."It was just a demonstration of faith. We were far away from where we could get water and I just had to sprinkle salt and pray for the water.
- By speaking out against religious fanaticism and demanding transparency and accountability from church leaders, we can work towards creating a safer and more just society for all.
- In each case, the victims are exposed to mind control by charismatic religious preachers. The only difference is in the mode and motive for death in the name of the chosen cause.
- Every person has the right to freedom of conscience, religion, thought, belief, and opinion.
- The journal by Cornelius etal (2024), recommends that the government and non-state actors need to enhance child protection services and programmes in religious settings for the purpose of protecting and removing the vulnerabilities of girls within the church by prosecuting perpetrators.
- African governments needs an honest discussion about how regulations can safeguard the right, to prevent fake religious leaders from misusing it.
- Regulate Religious Organizations: The government should regulate the activities of religious organizations to prevent the rise of dangerous doomsday cults. This can include setting guidelines for registration and monitoring their activities.
- Address Socio-economic Issues: Poverty and inequality can make individuals more vulnerable to extremist ideologies. The government should address these issues and provide opportunities for employment and economic stability.
- Strengthen Mental Health Services: Some individuals may be drawn to doomsday cults due to mental health issues. The government should provide accessible and adequate mental health services to prevent and address such cases.
- Provide Social Support: The government should provide social support for vulnerable individuals who may be targeted by doomsday cults. This can include providing access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
Monday, August 14, 2023
#2023hamornizedElection: To the abyss or its redemption for Zimbabwe.
1) WHAT IS IT FOR THE COMMON MAN AFTER 2023 GOING FORWARD?
2) WHAT IS IN STORE IF THE STATUS-QUO REMAINS?
3) WHAT WILL IT ENTAIL, IF THE ALTERNATIVE UPSTAGES THE STATUS-QUO?
4) WILL IT NOT BE ANOTHER CYCLE OF DISPUTED ELECTION(s)?
5) WILL THE GHOST OF 1 AUGUST 2018 NOT STRIKE AGAIN?
Vote out career politician. In fact, "PASI NEMBAVHA" thunders Zanu-PF council of elders chairman CDE SEKERAMAYI. Yes pasi nembavha!!!!!!.
Tuesday, June 27, 2023
Remembering Zimbabwe's Election Violence: The Brutality of 27 June 2008
By Lloyd Takawira
'27 June ... Va Mugabe Mu Office ... 100% total empowerment' is the mantra that some shed tears upon+ hearing
June 27, 2008, marks a dark chapter in Zimbabwe's history, marred by violence, bloodshed, and political oppression. The brutal rerun of the election served to remind the world of the lengths to which Zanu-PF would go to maintain its hold on power.
On 27 June 2008, Zimbabwe experienced a bloody and controversial day that will forever stain its history. Following a stalemate in the February elections, in which the late democratic icon Dr Morgan Tsvangirayi had defeated former President Robert Mugabe who then went on to orchestrate a solo rerun, leading to widespread violence and atrocities. The horrifying events of days leading to the rerun, shed light on the brutalities inflicted upon the citizens and the subsequent formation of a Government of National Unity (GNU). It is essential to reflect upon this dark chapter that revealed the depths of political brutality and the impact it had on Zimbabwe's political terrain even today.
The Violent Election Day:
As June 27, 2008, dawned upon Zimbabwe, fear, intimidation and violence against opposition supporters became the order of the day. Opposition supporters and activists were targeted, with many brutally assaulted or murdered for their political beliefs. Homes and businesses affiliated with the opposition were torched, instilling fear in the hearts of those brave enough to dissent against the oppressive leadership of Robert Mugabe.
Riot police, allegedly taking orders from Zanu-PF, further fueled the chaos by ruthlessly attacking opposition gatherings and rallies. The streets of Zimbabwe became battlegrounds, tearing families and communities apart, and causing deep physical and emotional wounds that still haunt survivors today.
To the international community
As we remember this day, the international community SADC & AU must be reminded that extreme violence unleashed during the June 27 elections garnered international attention and condemnation should never be allowed again. The world stood witness to the horrors inflicted upon innocent Zimbabweans who dared to challenge Mugabe's regime.
The Evil of Zanu-PF:
It is important to acknowledge the role of Zanu-PF in perpetrating these acts of violence during the 2008 elections. The ruling party, which had maintained its grip on power since Zimbabwe gained independence in 1980, resorted to brutality and intimidation to protect its position.
Political analyst Malcolm Ziki had this to say
'Even today, Zanu-PF's tactics are driven by an unrelenting desire to maintain control, even at the expense of the lives and human rights of its own citizens. Through various means, including state-sponsored violence, corruption, and suppression of free speech, Zanu-PF aimed to silence dissent and solidify its power. The events of 27 June 2008 serve as a stark reminder of the depths of their evil and the devastating consequences inflicted upon the people of Zimbabwe.
As we remember this tragic day, it is crucial to acknowledge the resilience of the Zimbabwean people who endured unimaginable hardships and violence. By shedding light on the events of 27 June 2008, we honor their struggles, reaffirm our commitment to justice, and strive for a future where democracy and human rights prevail over tyranny and violence.
Saturday, June 17, 2023
Dear Politician !!!
By Lloyd Takawira
I write this letter , with so much sorrow and resentment to your flauntings . While you jostle theatrically to have pictures taken with us and leave in your SUVs and flamboyant vhuzis (cars) , have you thought of our predicaments.
While you leave for your state of the art flash houses in the posh low density suburbs , have you thought of our families who are struggling to put a simple meal on the table.
Deep down in the rural areas , as you leave in your posh cars , the dust from the graveled roads smoking us , some will be traveling over ten kilometers to and from school . Have you thought of us.
That year you visited our rural area you promised to build us a clinic alas it's been ages that promise hasn't been fulfilled yet you're here once again asking our parents to vote for you. To do what MR POLITICIAN . What evil is that .
Do you know that , the last time you visited us , Mai Jane died on her way to Chimukutu clinic which is over 20 kilometers from her village , Marutande . You never care for our basic needs because you think you're clever.
Can you imagine Mr Politician , that the same parents you're asking to vote for you , some of them were retrenched and never got a single pen owing to your actions .
Can you imagine that Mr Politician that our parents are going through serious challenges. Some of the challenges has left us destitutes . Sending us to school is nolonger an easy task , while you're kids are going overseas to learn.
Mr Politician can you self introspect!!!
Dear Politician l encourage you to read , "The cry of a child"
by ELIZABETH BARRETT BROWNING
Yes Elizabeth never minced here words in her poem. She wrote a very piercing piece that l would want you to read , maybe you can change your mentality.
In case you have never come across her poem .
She said:
" Do ye hear the children weeping, O my brothers,
Ere the sorrow comes with years ?
They are leaning their young heads against their mothers, —
And that cannot stop their tears.
The young lambs are bleating in the meadows ;
The young birds are chirping in the nest ;
The young fawns are playing with the shadows ;
The young flowers are blowing toward the west—
But the young, young children, O my brothers,
They are weeping bitterly !
They are weeping in the playtime of the others, In the country of the free."
Yes Mr Politician , l rest my case with a clarion call for you to desist from abusing us for selfie pictures . Address our plight Mr Politician.
Yours truly
The Child ( Zimbabwe)
Tuesday, December 20, 2022
Regime Change A Sole Privilege For Zimbabweans
Neighboring South Africa's governing party , the ANC concluded it's controversial elective congress in which cornered President Mr Cyril Ramaphosa won a controversial second term .
Lessons from a Cybersecurity Nightmares
In this age of digital interconnectivity, our lives increasingly depend on technology for convenience, communication, and commerce. However,...
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By Lloyd Takawira Religious fanaticism has been a pervasive issue in many societies, with church leaders often being viewed as gods and ab...
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A wave of repressive legislation restricting NGOs and media freedoms around the world is slowly crippling in sending shivers down the spin...
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By Lloyd Takawira As the country goes for the crunch harmonized election on the 23rd of August 2023, echoes of election euphoria are rever...