THE IRONY OF JUSTICE: ZIMBABWE’S MISGUIDED WAR ON DRUGS

In the current landscape of Zimbabwe, a reality both complex and challenging unfolds. The government, led by the ZANU PF party, has launched a new initiative that, on the surface, appears to be a war against drug abuse. This development, however, is not without its ironies and misconceptions, raising questions about the true intentions and efficacy of such a campaign.

At the heart of this initiative is a focus on the users of drugs, primarily the youth, who have turned to substances as a coping mechanism in a country riddled with economic and social challenges. Zimbabwe, within the SADC region, reports alarmingly high rates of drug abuse, a statistic that correlates strongly with the nation’s staggering unemployment rates. These young individuals, rather than receiving support and rehabilitation, are being vilified and targeted by the state’s efforts.

The strategy employed by the government overlooks the root causes of this epidemic. The emphasis is on the symptoms – the drug users – while the deeper issues, such as the smuggling and distribution of illegal drugs, remain largely unaddressed. It’s a superficial treatment of a problem that is deeply embedded in the fabric of Zimbabwean society.

One cannot help but notice the glaring exemption of drug dealers and lords from this war on drugs. This selective approach to justice casts a shadow over the intentions behind this campaign. It raises questions about the priorities of the ruling party and the effectiveness of a police force that has been criticized for its partisanship and politicization. In a setting where the police should serve the community, there seems to be a disconnect between the needs of the people and the actions of law enforcement.

Moreover, the role of the ZANU PF in the current state of affairs cannot be ignored. The party’s policies and governance have been marked by controversies and accusations of corruption, leading to a deterioration of public welfare and trust. The diversion of resources from public welfare to private enrichment, the alleged manipulation of elections, and the disregard for constitutional governance have all contributed to a climate where issues like drug abuse are symptoms of a larger problem.

The irony lies in the fact that the government, which should be the guardian of public welfare, appears to be contributing to the very issues it claims to fight. The approach to drug abuse in Zimbabwe needs a reevaluation. Instead of a war against the victims of a failing system, there should be a concerted effort to tackle the systemic issues that lead to such social problems. This includes addressing unemployment, ensuring transparency in governance, and fostering an environment where the youth can find hope and opportunities, rather than resorting to substance abuse.

As Zimbabweans, it is crucial to scrutinize the actions of our leaders and demand accountability and genuine solutions to our problems. The fight against drug abuse should not be a war against our youth but a campaign to heal and rebuild a nation struggling under the weight of its challenges.