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.

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)