Africa-Press – Zimbabwe. Dangamvura–Chikanga Member of Parliament, Prosper Mutseyami (CCC), has warned that attempts to criminalise criticism of the government under the pretext of promoting patriotism risk pushing Zimbabwe towards authoritarianism.
Speaking in the National Assembly recently, Mutseyami argued that true patriotism cannot be legislated or imposed on citizens.
Instead, he said, it should stem from a genuine love for one’s country, one that embraces honest reflection, accountability, and meaningful action. Said Mutseyami:
What then is true patriotism? Patriotism is not blind loyalty. It is not empty slogans. It is a conscious love for our country that demands honest reflection, accountability and action.
True patriots question injustice, challenge corruption and demand systems that serve the people, not select a few.
It is the voice that speaks when citizens are denied opportunities, when our youth struggle for employment, and when economic policies fail to uplift the masses.
Our patriotism must ignite participation, ensuring that every Zimbabwean plays an active role in shaping the future.
Mutseyami was responding to remarks by Zaka North MP, Ophias Murambiwa (ZANU PF), who argued that Zimbabweans should not criticise the government simply because it is failing to deliver basic services such as healthcare.
Murambiwa went as far as proposing that Parliament should pass a law criminalising negative comments about the country, with offenders facing long prison sentences.
ZANU PF, which now holds a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly, remains resolute in pushing for legislation that would criminalise criticism of the government’s failures, despite objections from opposition parties.
Recently, ZANU PF MP Joseph Mapiki tabled a motion advocating for the adoption of a National Ideology, currently being debated in Parliament, which he claims will promote patriotism and foster a unique Zimbabwean identity.
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