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Political fear control Zimbabweans despite economic hardships

Leonard Mhlanga,

Research findings released by the Mass Public Opinion Institute (MPOI)  last week  showed that a growing number of Zimbabweans are expressing dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the economy. Research findings indicate that many people believe that the country is headed in the wrong direction, citing poor economic management as a major concern.

The research findings paint a dire picture of Zimbabwe’s economic situation. A staggering 68% of Zimbabweans believe the government is mismanaging the economy, which is compounded by the fact that 85% of respondents have lived without cash income over the past year. To make matters worse, 48% have gone without food.

These numbers suggest widespread economic hardship and dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the economy. The lack of cash income and access to basic necessities like food underscores the urgency of the situation.

“It is crucial for the government to address these concerns and implement policies that stimulate economic growth, improve access to financial services and ensure food security,” said Clari Madhuku, a participant at the research findings dissemination meeting in Harare.

While 6 in every 10 people feel close to a political party combined with a low trust in government due to economic mismanagement, 1 in every 2 responded that if elections were to be held today, they would vote for President ED Mnangagwa.

“It is quite surprising to see that despite widespread dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the economy, nearly half of the respondents would still vote for President Mnangagwa if elections to be held toaday,” said Prof Masunungure, Director of MPOI.

“This phenomenon is not unique to Zimbabwe because of factors that might be at play.”

The incumbency advantages such as control over state media and patronage networks influence public opinion coupled with what Professor Masungure termed “schizophrenic”. Zimbabweans are gripped with political fear due to a persistent use of political violence, intimidation and repression which has created a culture of fear.

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