Mugabe reminds his supporters of ‘freedoms’ given
ROBERT Mugabe, on his final political campaign in eastern Zimbabwe, told thousands of supporters he had delivered political and economic freedom since he came to power in 1980.
But Zimbabwe is bankrupt – it cannot pay monthly government salaries on time and there is hardly any cash in the banks.
Mugabe, 93, is standing in elections for the last time next year and is expected to win.
The ruling Zanu-PF party said the rally was for the youth – most of whom are semi-literate and will never have a job.
Friday’s rally took place in shabby Mutare, capital of Zimbabwe’s eastern province and close to the Mozambique border over which Mugabe’s fighters surged during the 1970s’ war against whiteruled Rhodesia.
Three years after he won his first British-supervised elections in 1980 he ordered brutal attacks against the opposition in south and western Zimbabwe.
Thousands of civilians were killed and many fled.
Hours before Mugabe was due to arrive at the rally, the stadium in the Sakubva township was packed and more people surged across the fences as the huge Zanu-PF political machine arrived.
Mugabe and his wife Grace, 51, were welcomed by Zanu-PF youth leader Kudzai Chipanga, who told the crowd: “President Mugabe is our angel Gabriel. Vote for angel Gabriel at the elections.” Catholic Mugabe’s middle name is Gabriel. Taking thousands of white-owned farms crashed the country’s economy, but many believe it was land which ensured Mugabe will rule until he dies or his last term ends.
Veteran political analyst, Brian Raftopoulos, said: “This is Mugabe’s farewell election so Zanu-PF will be determined he will win at any cost.
“Mugabe is leaving behind a very problematic political and economic landscape. The land was key to him remaining in power.”