How to play a role in Zimbabwe

The country has been viewed through the lens of two opposing narratives – this monograph argues for a different approach.

Countries such as Zimbabwe tend to be viewed through the lens of two crude and opposing narratives – one depicting a contest between a dictator and democracy, the other, a legitimate leader embattled by Western regime change agents. This monograph looks at events in Zimbabwe since the advent of Emmerson Mnangagwa and shows how each of the protagonists invites political allies, internally and internationally, to line up uncritically behind their chosen narrative. This invitation should be declined as being unhelpful. Principle, rather than ideological solidarity, is more likely to be mutually advantageous.

About the author

Derek Matyszak is a well-known writer on Zimbabwean politics, law and the interface between the two. He has authored two books on Zimbabwe, and numerous papers and journal articles. Some of his work has been published through the ISS, where he worked from May 2016 to August 2019. He writes from Harare, Zimbabwe.

Picture: Kate Holt/AusAID