Since the signing of the agreement that led to a government of “national unity,” there was an expectation that this could be the start of a new era in  Zimbabwe. However, the promise of real power-sharing seems to elude the new government; the old structures are tenaciously holding on to power.  In spite of these obstacles, the opposition remained optimistic that it could use its smaller share of power to advocate for change in the area of freedom and reforms of the constitution.  Unfortunately, they underestimated the resistance to change and in order to sustain hope, they held back from speaking candidly about issues in case they lost the little power that they have. So last week, as if sensing the futility of this facade, the opposition “flexed its muscles” and demanded that the governor of the reserve bank and attorney general resign — two issues that the “ruling party” is not prepared to even discuss or consider. So the battle lines are drawn. Whether this newfound voice and determination will change anything is hard to foresee, but it represents a break from previous statements that glossed over the reality of the lack of change and of powerlessness.  Your prayers as usual are deeply appreciated as we continue to search for a prophetic voice of hope and justice.

Nontando Hadebe, a former Sojourners intern, is originally from Zimbabwe and is now pursuing graduate studies in theology in South Africa.