Former opposition legislator Fadzayi Mahere has launched a sharp attack on Zimbabwe’s ruling elite, arguing that the country’s Unity Day no longer reflects genuine national cohesion. Instead, she says, the holiday only serves a privileged few whom she labels “Vene” — meaning “owners” — and should be renamed accordingly.
Zimbabwe marks Unity Day every year on 22 December to commemorate the signing of the Unity Accord, which brought together the former liberation movements ZANU and ZAPU in 1987.
However, Mahere contends that the spirit behind the accord has been abandoned. She insists there is no meaningful unity to justify a public holiday, arguing that the actions of those in power have instead deepened divisions across the country.
According to Mahere, elected representatives have been removed from Parliament despite receiving a popular mandate, while opposition political gatherings are routinely blocked. She also accused authorities of intimidating citizens, harassing those outside the ruling party, and using fear — including the destruction of homes — to silence dissent.
Mahere further alleged that access to economic opportunities has become politically conditional, claiming that individuals who do not openly show loyalty to the ruling establishment are excluded from gold trading, national tenders, employment, and financial opportunities. She said even young people and artists are affected, with musicians allegedly barred from performing if they are perceived as politically misaligned.
She also criticised what she described as intolerance toward independent voices, accusing those in power of attempting to shut down radio stations that give space to alternative political views. In her view, the refusal to allow free and fair elections, coupled with violations of the constitution, demonstrates that genuine unity is not being pursued.
Mahere questioned who exactly benefits from the unity being celebrated, arguing that it does not include the wider population. She concluded that the holiday should be renamed “Vene Day,” suggesting that ordinary citizens should go about their work while those in power celebrate among themselves.
“What is being practised is not unity,” she said, “but a form of disunity that continues to harm the nation.”
