In recent times, Zimbabwe’s political landscape has been marred by a series of irregularities, marking a dark chapter in the nation’s quest for democratic consolidation. The recent elections were a spotlight, unveiling a tapestry of illegalities, brazen fraud, and a saga that further deepened the political quagmire. The elections were more than just a ballot battle; they unearthed the entrenched culture of electoral malfeasance and political high-handedness that seem to have taken root in the nation’s polity.

The aftermath of the disputed polls was nothing short of political drama, headlined by the acts of Sengezo Tshabangu, who fraudulently and unlawfully recalled 15 main opposition Citizen’s Coalition for Change (CCC) Members of Parliament (MPs). This act was not grounded on any legal basis nor had any authoritative mandate, yet it was executed with the apparent collaboration of the Speaker of Parliament, actors from the ruling Zanu PF party and the obscure, Central Intelligence Organisation-run Forever Associates Zimbabwe (FAZ) outfit which unscrupulously oversaw the elections.

The illicit recall of the opposition MPs was a clear affront to the provisions of Zimbabwe’s constitution. Not only did it violate the electoral mandate given by the citizens to their representatives, but it also undermined the essence of a multi-party democracy. The act was a conspicuous attempt to thwart the opposition and consolidate power amidst an already tense political milieu.

The Bulawayo Mayor, David Coltart, expressed his disdain over the political chicanery, branding the whole Tshabangu saga and Speaker of Parliament Jacob Mudenda’s subsequent actions as “breathtakingly illegal”. His remarks underscored the audacity of the illegality surrounding the expulsion of the CCC MPs. According to the constitutional provision, Section 129k, MPs can only be removed at the behest of a ‘party’ (which sponsored them during the elections), not by the whims of an individual. The law was clear, but the actors in this political theatre seemed to have thrown legality to the wind.

The actions of Speaker Mudenda in expelling the opposition MPs were not just an egregious breach of the law, but also an illustration of how the scales of justice could be tilted to favour the powers that be. The manoeuvre reflects a glaring abuse of power and a descent into political anarchy where the constitution becomes a mere paper tiger in the face of political expediency.

The narrative of Zimbabwe’s recent elections and its aftermath is a poignant reflection of a democracy in jeopardy. The blatant disregard for legal norms and electoral ethics by key political actors underscores a deep-seated culture of impunity. The essence of democracy is not just in the act of voting, but in upholding the rule of law, respecting the will of the people, and ensuring that political actions are grounded on legal and moral premises.

As Zimbabwe navigates through these murky political waters, the call for electoral reforms and adherence to constitutionalism becomes increasingly loud and clear. The citizens of Zimbabwe deserve a political environment that is conducive for democratic growth, where electoral integrity is not a far-fetched dream but a lived reality. The nation stands at a crossroads; the path chosen will significantly shape Zimbabwe’s democratic destiny.