Zimbabwe introduces new national law to ensure patriotism: Opposition alleges legislation to Curb Dissent

(3 minutes read)

• Parliament in Zimbabwe has approved a controversial new law that criminalizes acts that damage “the sovereignty and national interest” of the country.  The new legislation came into effect hours after the government announced nationwide elections for August 23^rd

Parliament in Zimbabwe has approved a controversial new law that criminalizes acts that damage “the sovereignty and national interest” of the country.  The new legislation came into effect hours after the government announced nationwide elections for August 23^rd, which a large section of the people believes will kill the freedom of speech and particularly the right to dissent.

The ruling party sources opined that the new law was aimed at encouraging Zimbabweans to be “patriotic”. But the critics do not think so and they dub the new legislation as a means to shut the dissent. Being made a law before the country is going to polls, the critics see this as a covert measure to bring the ruling party to power.

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 Emmerson Mnangagwa (80) replaced former autocratic ruler Robert Mugabe in 2017 after a military-led coup. He is now seeking a second term in August. His main challenger is Nelson Chamisa (45) a lawyer and pastor, who leads the recently formed CCC party.