UNITY AND PRIDE: A TALE OF TWO NATIONS
My commitment to World Press Freedom Day meant I only caught fragments of the big event in the United Kingdom. Yet, even these snippets were enough to stir deep emotions. I have no personal ties to this Western European nation, but seeing the strong unity and pride of its people for their country and leaders left a deep impact on me.
Displays of nationwide togetherness always resonate with me. A country united in patriotism shows true national strength.Seeing so many people waving their national flag in support of their new king brought a feeling of joy that was almost too much to handle. The shouts of “God save the King!” hit home, not because they came from overly political people or poor communities forced to attend, but because they came from people who truly love their king.
This event was not just a big show for the public or a way to make the crowd look bigger. Even though some protested against the monarchy, saying it was outdated and costly, it was clear that most people – including many from other countries – were there out of real admiration for the monarchy.
This made me wonder why we don’t see the same kind of patriotic unity in Zimbabwe. Our President, Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, went to King Charles III’s coronation. Did he ever wonder why he doesn’t get the same kind of real affection from Zimbabweans?The truth is, the ruling ZANU PF party often uses pressure tactics, making less privileged communities show false support out of fear or promises of help, rather than true affection. Without the promise of farming support, food, entertainment, or the threat of severe punishment, would Zimbabweans willingly rally for Mnangagwa?
Sure, some people pretend to be loyal to get jobs or benefits. But Mnangagwa’s rule has caused widespread hardship and poverty. Who would willingly support a leader who has made their lives so difficult?How can there be any real affection for a leader who cares more about getting rich than the welfare of his people, openly stealing national resources for himself and his close friends?
What kind of attachment could anyone have to a regime known for brutally crushing any opposition, especially from a population left poor and desperate by their policies?So, the reason why Zimbabwe lacks the patriotic unity seen in the United Kingdom becomes clear. It is nearly impossible to see similar scenes happening in Zimbabwe anytime soon.
Why would they, when we are ruled by a cold, selfish leadership focused on their own interests over the welfare of ordinary Zimbabweans?However, seeing the British cry, “Long live the king,” I too find myself echoing the sentiment. Any nation lucky enough to have a leader they truly love and respect should be allowed to cherish that leader indefinitely.
