Unity Day reflections: A call to uphold our national cohesion
AS we celebrate National Unity Day today (Friday), Zimbabweans will be commemorating much more than the historic fusion of ZANU PF and PF ZAPU, or the cessation of hostilities in our post-independence country.
This day symbolises a reaffirmation of our collective dedication to the principle that unity is an intentional and collaborative effort. The Unity Accord, signed on December 22, 1987, stands as a profound testament to the necessity of active engagement and a united vision in placing the interests of Zimbabwe at the forefront of our national agenda.
The jubilation that marked Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980 was a defining moment, brimming with aspirations and the anticipation of a united future.
Yet, the years that followed unveiled a crucial truth: the path to harmony is not automatic, but one that necessitates deliberate and sustained effort, along with open dialogue.
Our journey taught us, often through difficult lessons, that the diversity within our nation, while undeniable, must be managed within the bounds of our constitutional and legal systems. These systems are designed to safeguard the collective interests of all Zimbabweans.
The Unity Accord, in this respect, was more than just a political agreement; it was a profound acknowledgment that when confronted with adversities, our instinct should be to collaborate and seek mutual understanding, not to indulge in blame games.
The Unity Accord represented a pivotal shift in our national mindset, underscoring the importance of rebuilding from our discord rather than allowing it to fester. It was a clear declaration that the responsibility to maintain unity lies in embracing our differences and finding ways to bridge them constructively.
This approach to national unity has since become a cornerstone of our identity as a nation, reminding us that our strength lies in our ability to unite in the face of challenges and to forge a path forward together.
The unification of ZANU PF and PF Zapu into a singular political entity represented more than just a strategic alliance; it was a crucial move towards fostering national unity. Despite the minimal ideological differences between these two dominant parties, their significant geographic and linguistic divisions posed a considerable challenge in post-independence Zimbabwe.
The merger, therefore, was a practical and necessary step in bridging these divides and promoting a sense of solidarity and cohesion across the nation.
Our neighbours, Mozambique encountered their own challenges with external forces exploiting internal discord.
Yet, through a different approach that involved depoliticising the military and committing to parliamentary debate, Mozambique achieved the unity it enjoys today, albeit with ongoing challenges in certain regions. The essence of their solution mirrored ours: stepping back from conflict and embracing dialogue and democratic processes.
In the contemporary landscape of Zimbabwe, the nation stands as a multi-party State, enriched by a tapestry of diverse political perspectives. Despite the myriad of views and ideologies, there is a prevailing sense of unity that underpins our society.
This unity is anchored in our shared allegiance to one flag and a common constitution, symbolising our collective identity and national ethos.
The differences among us, though sometimes profound, are an integral part of our democratic fabric. It is through these differences that the vibrancy of our democracy is maintained, necessitating a continuous commitment to nurturing the bonds that unite us as Zimbabweans.
The management of these differences is pivotal and is best achieved within the frameworks of democratic institutions and processes.
Parliamentary debates, characterised by robust, yet respectful discourse, play a crucial role in this regard, allowing for a healthy exchange of ideas and viewpoints.
These democratic processes are the cornerstones upon which our national unity is built and sustained, ensuring that even amidst diversity, our collective commitment to the progress and prosperity of Zimbabwe remains unwavering.
It is imperative that we maintain vigilance against forces that may seek to push our political discourse beyond the realms of reason and factual integrity.
Our nation’s history has provided us with invaluable lessons on the importance of upholding a discourse rooted in truth and rationality.
Straying from these principles can lead to misinformation and heightened tensions, undermining the very foundations of our democratic processes. Therefore, it is crucial that we collectively guard against any attempts to distort or manipulate political discussions, ensuring that our public discourse remains a reflection of our commitment to truth, transparency, and reasoned debate.
In light of this, the role of our security forces and the judiciary becomes increasingly significant.
The lessons of the past have underscored the need for these institutions to operate with the highest levels of professionalism and impartiality. Their ability to effectively manage and mitigate the repercussions of any political excesses is key to maintaining national stability and order.
It is through their unwavering commitment to justice and fairness that we can navigate the challenges of political overreach, ensuring that our democratic values are preserved and respected in all spheres of our national life.
National Unity Day is a stark reminder of the dangers of giving in to divisive instincts or allowing external manipulation. It also underscores the importance of having a Government that acts for all its people.
President Mnangagwa’s approach, informed by the lessons of the past, focuses on inclusive development that leaves no person or region behind.
As we commemorate this day, let us all — Government officials, political leaders, and citizens — renew our pledge to the spirit of unity. It is a time to reflect on our journey, celebrate our achievements, and collectively address our challenges.
Let us strive to embody the essence of unity, not only in our words, but in our actions, ensuring that every Zimbabwean feels a part of the fabric that makes up our beloved nation.
National Unity Day is not just a look back at our past; it is a reaffirmation of our future — a future built on the foundation of unity, peace, and progress for all.