Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu PF, has hired a controversial firm, Forever Associates Zimbabwe (FAZ), to help it win the upcoming by-elections. The by-elections were triggered by the recall of 15 opposition lawmakers by a rival faction.
FAZ is a shadowy organization that has been accused of using dirty tactics and violence to campaign for Zanu PF in the past. It has also been linked to the abduction and torture of activists and journalists who expose corruption and human rights abuses.
According to sources, FAZ has deployed its operatives to various wards and villages, where they are distributing food and cash to voters, as well as intimidating and threatening those who support the opposition. FAZ is also allegedly using social media and fake news to spread propaganda and misinformation.
The opposition parties have condemned the involvement of FAZ in the by-elections, saying it undermines the credibility and fairness of the electoral process. They have called on the electoral commission and the international community to monitor and intervene in the situation.
The by-elections are seen as a test of the popularity and legitimacy of Zanu PF and its leader, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who came to power in a military coup in 2017. Mnangagwa has promised to implement political and economic reforms, but critics say he has failed to deliver and has continued the repression and mismanagement of his predecessor, Robert Mugabe.
The by-elections are also a chance for the opposition to regain its parliamentary seats and challenge the dominance of Zanu PF, which has ruled Zimbabwe since independence in 1980. The opposition hopes to mobilize its supporters and overcome the obstacles and risks posed by FAZ and the pandemic.
Source: Newsday Zimbabwe
