10 STEPS BACKWARDS
..as the culture of fear undermines freedom and peace
The visible and deliberate deployment of military personnel in press conferences and the use of heavy
artillery in the streets of Zimbabwe as witnessed in March 2025 represents a concerning normalisation of
militarisation in civilian spaces. This practice, which has been on the rise during politically sensitive
periods such as planned protests or election seasons, sends a powerful and chilling message to citizens
that ‘the state is watching, and any action will be met with force.’ Historically, Zimbabweans have borne
the brunt of brutal state crackdowns. From the Gukurahundi massacres of the 1980s to the bloody postelection violence in 2008 and the 2019 shutdown protests, security forces particularly the military have
played a central role in suppressing dissent. These events have deeply scarred the national psyche,
fostering a culture of fear that continues to haunt communities across the country.
When government officials address the public flanked by soldiers or when anti-riot tanks patrol otherwise
peaceful streets, the symbolism is unmistakable: the state is prepared to use force. This intimidatory
posturing silences critical voices and deters public participation in civic life, including constitutionally
protected acts such as peaceful protest, petitioning, and free expression. Rather than promoting peace,
such displays might undermine it. True peace is not the absence of visible conflict but the presence of
justice, freedom, and open dialogue. By equating civilian engagement with insurrection, the state erodes
public trust and alienates the very citizens it purports to protect.
In the long term, this militarised governance not only shrinks democratic space but stunts the growth of a
peaceful, active citizenry. It stifles the development of inclusive politics and discourages people,
especially the youth and women from participating in building a just, accountable, and democratic
society. For Zimbabwe to move toward genuine peace and development, the state must demilitarize
public life and affirm the primacy of civilian authority and constitutional rights. This requires respecting
freedoms, holding security forces accountable, and fostering a culture of engagement rather than fear.
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