This archive report was first published on 2 November 2019.
On October 25, Zimbabwe's government spent $4 million on an anti-sanctions march, which was ironically snubbed by its own citizens. This event highlights the country's deepening economic crisis, which has been exacerbated by a combination of factors.
According to the International Crisis Group, the sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe were a result of serious electoral irregularities and human rights abuses. However, other analysts argue that the actual trigger for the sanctions was the land invasions that saw thousands of white farmers lose their farms to Zimbabwe's business and political elites.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa's government has been criticized for its handling of the economic crisis. The opposition Zimbabwe African People's Union (Zapu) spokesperson, Iphithule Maphosa, blamed the government for the renewal of the sanctions, stating, 'The sanctions are meant to whip the military government into line. The government must stop whining and be responsible for its actions, reform and observe human rights before complaining against sanctions.'
Meanwhile, main opposition leader Nelson Chamisa termed the crusade against sanctions a propaganda effort aimed at masking the country's 'failed leadership.' Zimbabweans are polarized on whether sanctions or corruption is the main cause of the economic meltdown.
As the country struggles to recover from its economic crisis, it is clear that a multifaceted approach is needed to address the root causes of the problem. This includes reforming the government, observing human rights, and addressing corruption.
