Zimbabwe is facing a big problem with its elections coming up on August 23. In Bulawayo, 12 candidates from the opposition party have been disqualified. Another candidate, Saviour Kasukuwere, who wanted to run for president as an independent, has also been disqualified. People in Zimbabwe are worried because many believe the courts are now being used for political reasons, which is unfair. They think this is happening to make sure President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his party, Zanu PF, stay in power. This is causing many people to feel that democracy in Zimbabwe is being taken away, and that the country is moving towards more control by one party, without room for opposition voices.

Zimbabwe’s democracy is at risk, and the way the elections are happening is becoming less fair. Zanu PF, the ruling party, is known for using both good and bad ways to win elections. Sometimes they give people things like food or money to get their votes, but they have also used fear, threats, and even violence to make sure they stay in control. Since 1980, Zanu PF has ruled Zimbabwe and they have always found ways to keep winning elections. In 2017, President Robert Mugabe was forced to step down after being in power for almost 40 years, but his removal did not change much. Mnangagwa, who took over after Mugabe, came to power with the help of the military. Many hoped things would improve, but it seems Zanu PF is still using its power in unfair ways.

Now, with these recent disqualifications of opposition candidates, it seems that the courts, which are supposed to be fair and protect the rights of all people, are being used to help the ruling party. This is what people call “partisan judicialisation.” It means that instead of being fair, the courts are being controlled to make sure that Zanu PF keeps its hold on power. This is a serious issue because it shows that even the justice system is not safe from political control.

In 2021, Mnangagwa decided to extend the job of the Chief Justice, Luke Malaba, for five more years. This decision raised concerns because it seemed like Mnangagwa was changing the rules to make sure the courts remain under his influence. This has made people even more worried about the future of the judiciary in Zimbabwe. When the courts are not independent, it means they can be used to keep one party in power, and this threatens democracy.

Zimbabwe has been trying to build a democracy for over 40 years, but with actions like these, it looks like the country might be heading towards even more control by Zanu PF. Many people around the world are watching Zimbabwe and are concerned about what will happen next. The international community, which includes other countries and global organizations, is hoping Zimbabwe can still change its path. They may need to apply more pressure to help the country move back towards democracy. Things like sanctions or diplomatic talks could help push Zimbabwe in the right direction.

Zimbabweans deserve free and fair elections, where everyone’s voice is heard. The recent disqualifications show how much is at stake. The courts are being used to make sure Zanu PF stays in control, which makes it harder for opposition parties to stand a chance in the elections. If things continue like this, Zimbabwe’s democracy could be in serious danger.

This is a time for Zimbabwe to stand up for its democracy. People in the country and those around the world who care about justice must act to make sure Zimbabwe does not fall deeper into a one-party rule where the courts, elections, and even the future of the country are controlled by one group. Democracy is fragile, and Zimbabwe must find a way to protect it.