The political party in power, ZANU PF, widely criticized for its ostensible shortcomings, is once again in the public eye. The party, notorious for its alleged financial and natural resource misappropriation, has recently announced that unemployment in the country has risen to 19%. The number is staggering considering that the data comes from the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZIMSTAT), a body suspected of bias in favor of the ruling party.

ZANU PF, whose legitimacy has been frequently called into question, stands accused of prioritizing its political aspirations over the needs of the nation. Critics claim the party’s relentless push for a one-party state has led to governmental paralysis and a significant reduction in public service delivery. This, combined with an alleged looting spree, appears to be negatively impacting the welfare of the Zimbabwean people.

Observers are left questioning the authenticity of the unemployment statistic given ZANU PF’s alleged history of manipulating information. Is the 19% unemployment rate accurate or an underestimation of reality? They suggest that the party may be manipulating ZIMSTAT’s data as part of a wider propaganda campaign to persuade the significantly unemployed populace, estimated to be as high as 74%, into supporting them.

ZANU PF has faced long-standing accusations of insensitivity and unresponsiveness towards the plight of its people. Thus, one wonders why they would try to deceive the very populace they are said to oppress and neglect. Wouldn’t it make more sense to allow the people to evaluate their employment situation without interference?

The alleged distortion of unemployment statistics could be an admission by ZANU PF of their failure to handle the economy, leading to rampant joblessness. However, is ZANU PF ready to rule a state plagued by unemployment and on the verge of failure?

Experts posit that if ZANU PF were committed to a truly democratic system, they would uphold the principles of law, equality, separation of powers, and devolution of power. Unfortunately, critics contend that these ideals seem far from ZANU PF’s approach to governance.

ZANU PF is often blamed as the primary catalyst for the country’s high unemployment rate. The opposition argues that a change in leadership could quickly reverse the situation. The opposition proposes an initial focus on securing property rights, in stark contrast to ZANU PF’s alleged disregard for constitutional rights and human liberties.

ZANU PF’s critics argue that the party’s apparent obsession with achieving a one-party state could lead to the nation’s downfall. Their mismanagement, lack of transparency, and absence of accountability might precipitate a complete collapse of the state.

In a final note, critics argue that the people need more than manipulated unemployment statistics—they need actual jobs. And, if the unemployment rate truly sits at 19%, one might wonder where ZANU PF plans to find young recruits for national service. This query provides plenty to ponder.