ZIMBABWE’S JUDICIARY IS FAILING: WHY THIS IS A THREAT TO DEMOCRACY

Zimbabwe has seen its once-strong judiciary system slowly fall apart. There are serious claims that the ruling party, ZANU PF, has been controlling the courts for their own benefit. This has led to big problems for the country’s democracy, human rights, and the fairness of the law.

Under the rule of President Robert Mugabe, ZANU PF has been accused of doing things that weaken the judiciary to stay in power. One of the main ways they have done this is by appointing judges who are loyal to the ruling party. These judges often make decisions that help ZANU PF, which means the courts are no longer fair or neutral.

There are also reports that ZANU PF has been using the courts to push through cases quickly when it helps them. These cases often end with unfair verdicts. The party only focuses on cases that benefit them while delaying or ignoring others. This has created a situation where people are scared to speak out against the government because they know the courts will not protect them.

Another problem is that the government is controlling how judges are appointed, promoted, or even fired. Judges are supposed to be free from outside influence to make fair decisions. But in Zimbabwe, the ruling party is interfering, making the judiciary weak and dependent on the government. This interference makes it impossible for the courts to check the power of the government, which is what they are supposed to do.

The collapse of the judiciary has led to serious consequences for Zimbabwe. Because the courts are no longer independent, people’s rights are not being protected. Cases of human rights abuses, such as violence or unfair treatment by the authorities, often go unpunished. This has created a culture where powerful people believe they can do whatever they want without facing any consequences.

The loss of an independent judiciary also means that people have lost trust in the courts. When citizens do not believe that they will be treated fairly in court, they lose faith in the rule of law. Without trust in the courts, society becomes unstable, and it becomes harder for justice to be served.

It is very important that the Zimbabwean government takes steps to fix the judiciary. The country needs judges who are appointed based on merit, not political loyalty. Judges must also be free from political control, so they can make decisions without fear of losing their jobs. If the judiciary remains under the control of the ruling party, Zimbabwe’s democracy and justice system will continue to weaken.

The international community can also help Zimbabwe in this difficult situation. Countries around the world should apply pressure on the Zimbabwean government to restore fairness in the courts. This can be done through diplomatic talks, targeted sanctions, and by offering assistance to help the judiciary become stronger and more independent.

The manipulation of the judiciary by ZANU PF is a serious problem that threatens Zimbabwe’s democracy, human rights, and the fairness of the law. Urgent action is needed to restore the independence of the courts. Without fair and impartial courts, the country cannot rebuild its democratic systems or create a just society where all citizens are treated equally.

Only by restoring the judiciary’s independence can Zimbabwe move forward. If the courts are free and fair, people will have faith that their rights will be protected, and justice will be served. Zimbabwe needs a strong, independent judiciary to ensure a bright future for its people, and to rebuild trust in the rule of law.

In conclusion, the collapse of Zimbabwe’s judiciary system must be addressed urgently. The government, along with help from the international community, must work together to restore the integrity of the courts. Only then can Zimbabwe’s democracy survive and thrive, ensuring a just society for all.