African governments and regional blocs, including Sadc and the AU, have been accused of betraying the continent’s liberation ideals by perpetuating repression, tribalism and authoritarian rule decades after independence.
Mthwakazi Republic Party president, Mqondisi Moyo, said many liberation movements have transformed into “instruments of fear, repression and authoritarian rule” after taking power.
“Political authority is increasingly treated not as a democratic responsibility entrusted temporarily by citizens, but as a permanent entitlement belonging to ruling elites,” Moyo said in his Africa Day message.
He condemned the use of tribal identity in African politics, arguing ethnic divisions have fuelled instability, conflict and coups across the continent.
Turning to Zimbabwe, Moyo accused Zanu PF of abandoning liberation struggle ideals through corruption, repression and political violence.
He revisited the Gukurahundi atrocities of the 1980s, describing them as one of the “darkest chapters in post-independence African history.”
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“Thousands of innocent civilians lost their lives,” Moyo said. “Entire communities were traumatised…Where was Africa when innocent civilians in Matabeleland and Midlands were dying?”
He accused African regional bodies of remaining silent during and after the massacres, saying liberation solidarity among ruling parties overshadowed justice for victims.
Ibhetshu Likazulu secretary general, Mbuso Fuzwayo, said African leaders have deviated from the Ubuntu doctrine.
“Individuals have taken all the resources for themselves, leaving locals with nothing,” he said.
Gukurahundi survivor, Ben Moyo, said African leaders have failed to tell each other the truth.
“They have watched others destroy their economies, commit genocide, and done nothing about it. By their silence, they have connived in the abuses we see,” Moyo said Zapu secretary, Vivian Siziba, said only political independence has been achieved.
“Economic independence that would deliver its populace from poverty and gross human rights violations remains elusive. Instead we get poor governance, corruption, looting of natural resources, and civil wars.”
Freedom Alliance leader Presia Ngulube added: “Africa Day was meant to symbolize unity, dignity and pride. Today many Africans no longer find joy in their identity because of suffering, corruption, poverty, violence and oppression.”