In Mozambique, ZANU PF finds itself in a predicament. Unlike its swift deployment in Congo, it hesitates to intervene in Mozambique, where it faces no prospects of extracting diamonds and strategic minerals. This article delves into the reasons behind ZANU PF’s reluctance and dismantles the misconception of imagined pressure driving its military involvement in Mozambique.
ZANU PF’s actions are primarily driven by a thirst for self-enrichment rather than the interests of the nation. This is why it quickly intervened in Congo but remains inactive in Mozambique. The instability in Congo posed no threat to Zimbabwe, while Mozambique’s state failure and ensuing humanitarian crisis threaten its national security. However, ZANU PF’s insatiable desire for plunder and looting stifles any motivation for military intervention.
The belief that ZANU PF is pressured to deploy troops in Mozambique hinges on an overvalued perception of its economic importance. However, ZANU PF thrives in a dysfunctional economy, maintaining control through partisan food aid schemes and discouraging land title deeds for independent loans. A competent economy with a politically aware middle class poses a threat to its power retention, as it loses its grip on vote-buying tactics.
When ZANU PF intervened in Mozambique previously, it cited reasons like protecting the Beira corridor and bolstering Zimbabwe’s economy. Ironically, it now seems to forget its duty to maintain Mozambique’s sovereignty and protect its own national security. Selective amnesia dismisses the notion of imagined pressure for military intervention.
ZANU PF often resorts to excuses, but it can’t use this tactic to justify its reluctance to intervene in Mozambique. It claims it can’t act alone, yet it previously engaged in military operations in Congo without SADC’s approval. This reveals its disregard for institutional constraints and its inability to generate solutions or confront equal forces.
The pressure on ZANU PF comes from its underperforming economy plagued by inflation, deficits, and corruption. Deploying troops would further cripple the economy and risk its hold on power, potentially leading to prosecution for human rights abuses.
ZANU PF’s previous intervention in Mozambique was motivated by the need to protect its interests. The consequences of instability remain the same, compromising the national security of both Mozambique and Zimbabwe. However, the actors and strategies have changed, and ZANU PF lacks the expertise for successful engagement in this new conflict.
In conclusion, ZANU PF’s reluctance to intervene in Mozambique stems from its incapacity to extract oil and gas through plunder, its lack of expertise, and its selfish interests. The party’s insatiable appetite for looting hinders it from preempting national security threats in Mozambique, potentially destabilizing the region further.