Truth, Justice and The Role of Social and Religious Leadership towards Reconciliation and National Healing in Post-Independence Zimbabwe: A Theological Perspective

Abstract

Abstract This thesis argues that the challenges Zimbabwe has been facing since her independence in 1980 are a result of bad governance. There is undeniably a leadership deficit in Zimbabwe, as in many countries across Africa, that is evidenced by the continuous deterioration of living conditions of the general populace. The oppressive policies that emanated from the colonial era are still being enforced in contemporary Zimbabwe. Unfortunately, such policies are being perpetrated by the black government against black people. As a result, the economy and social lives of the populace have been ravaged by corrupt leaders, both social and religious. Many people have died at the hands of irresponsible and egocentric politicians without account. What theology can the church develop to mitigate such pernicious politics in Zimbabwe by the liberation struggle movement ZANU-PF? The church should be a non-partisan entity that functions as the soul of the nation. It is the church’s mandate to facilitate reconciliation and healing through dialogues that unify the people of Zimbabwe. The auspicious moment for the church in Zimbabwe is to facilitate an unbiased dialogue that is imbedded in Christian theology, seeking to promote democracy and leading the country towards recovery. Christian theology does not evade truth, justice and repentance. These three remain as the prerequisites for genuine reconciliation. This is the message of the church to the world, and it should never be compromised for any ungodly gain and self-aggrandizement.