The more things change, the more they remain the same

PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government has been telling all and sundry that it was a new dispensation, but the arrest of peacefully protesting teachers last week is a huge indicator that there is little if any change.

The 16 educators were allegedly brutally bashed by law enforcement agents after they were detained for staging a protest demanding the US$540 salary they were getting before October 2018.

Demonstrating and picketing are guaranteed rights in the Constitution and detaining the activists is tantamount to the authorities shooting themselves in the foot, as it shows that the new administration is averse to people expressing themselves, just as the old one was.

Whatever you think of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe members and their approach to issues, that does not in any way justify the way they were treated and there is need for authorities to ensure that the rule of law is maintained, no matter the circumstances.

Mnangagwa, as the new leader, should know that such demonstrations shall be the hallmark of his time as a leader and detaining the activists is not always the answer.

The question his government should be asking itself is whether the activists have a reason to demonstrate and try and meet them halfway.

Trying to pretend their grievances are unimportant will only serve to galvanise others into demonstrating against Mnangagwa and his government and that is a powder keg.

Instead of trying to crush demonstrations, Mnangagwa should find ways of addressing issues that are raised.

The salaries of civil servants have been eroded by inflation and it’s high time government adjusted them or reverted to the United States dollar.

The only way to end those demonstrations is for Mnangagwa to begin an honest conversation with civil servants leaders and seek an end to the bitterness that continues to endure to this day.

Bureaucrats and the President’s advisers may be dismissive of the protests, but this is one thing that will haunt this administration if it is not handled well.

With elections set for next year, Mnangagwa’s presidency will depend on how he handles issues presented to him.

Pikirayi