Legislators from the ruling ZANU PF party are steadfast in their efforts to introduce laws that would make it illegal to criticise the government’s failures — a move facing strong opposition from rival political parties.
Recently, ZANU PF Member of Parliament Joseph Mapiki proposed a motion in Parliament advocating for the adoption of a National Ideology. The proposal, currently under debate, is aimed at instilling patriotism and shaping a collective Zimbabwean identity.
Fellow party MP Ophias Murambiwa echoed these sentiments, suggesting that highlighting state deficiencies, such as the lack of medication in hospitals, should not be seen as unpatriotic.
“It is surprising that some Honourable Members express dissatisfaction with the state of healthcare and then claim they no longer love their country,” Murambiwa remarked. “The absence of medication today does not mean there won’t be any tomorrow.”
He went further to suggest legislation that would penalise citizens who criticise the country.
“Loving our country should be unconditional — in both good and difficult times. I propose that this Parliament draft a law that punishes those who speak negatively about our nation, with jail time as a consequence,” said Murambiwa.
ZANU PF has long floated the idea of enacting laws to penalise unflattering commentary about Zimbabwe under the guise of promoting patriotism. The National Ideology initiative mirrors the teachings of the party’s Herbert Chitepo School of Ideology and is also intended to be introduced into the national education curriculum.
However, the opposition has raised alarm over the implications of such an ideology, warning that it could be weaponised to stifle dissent.
Opposition MP Prosper Mutseyami cautioned that Zimbabwe could be heading down an authoritarian path if such ideas are implemented.
“True patriotism is not about blind loyalty or empty slogans,” Mutseyami stated. “It is about honest critique, demanding transparency, and pushing for systems that uplift the whole nation, not just a privileged few. Patriots speak out against injustice, corruption, and economic mismanagement.”
He argued that genuine love for the country should encourage citizen engagement and foster accountability — not silence.
ALSO READ : Over 2 500 women, girls in Reusable Sanitary Pads Production
