A Critical Reflection on the Persistence of Electoral Instigated Violence in Zimbabwe (2000-2018)

Abstract

This study investigated the causes of Zimbabwe’s electoral violence from 2000 to 2018. It was underpinned by the defective democracy theory in understanding the dynamics that shape the conditions for violence each time Zimbabwe holds elections. This study is premised on the fact that politically motivated violence towards, during and immediately after elections is a common feature in Zimbabwe, particularly the period after 2000. Given this trend in politically motivated violence against opposition supporters in Zimbabwe, this study specifically looks at the period from 2000 to 2018. This period was chosen because it witnessed one of the most terrifying incidents in the history of Zimbabwe’s general elections. This is also the period where ZANU (PF) faced one of its toughest challenges from an opposition party since independence in 1980. It is also the period when the SADC became involved in trying to find a lasting solution to the country’s election related violence. The study was qualitatively done. Data were collected from both primary and secondary sources. Interviews and document analysis were used to collect data. Data collected enabled the assessment of the imperatives that underlie the country’s propensity for violence every time elections are held. ZANU-PF’s insatiable quest to remain in power and the party’s failure to acknowledge the main opposition party, the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) characterises its intolerance of those who oppose its rule. This study argues that due to ZANU-PF’s intolerance of opposition parties, MDC party members are kidnapped, intimidated and tortured by its unruly hooligans to prevent them from voting for the latter. The study concludes that during elections, the ruling ZANU-PF party abuses the country’s security forces by deploying them to manipulate the electoral process. Using the defective theory, the study explains the existence of electoral violence in Zimbabwe. To achieve sustainable peace and uphold the rule of law during and immediately after elections, the study suggests the country’s continuous engagement with the international community.