Zimbabwe

Originally concentrating on strengthening political party structures, the International Republican Institute (IRI) began its Zimbabwe program in 1993. The program quickly broadened its focus to include civil society organizations and their role in the promotion of good governance.

Strengthening Civil Society

The millennium ushered in a wave of violence in Zimbabwe reminiscent of the pre-independence struggle. Legislation, restricting free speech and movement, was enacted immediately after the June 2000 parliamentary elections. In light of these limitations, IRI has identified capacity building in all aspects of organizational communications as a key priority in its Zimbabwe program.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe's economy continues to shrink at an alarming rate. Operation Murambatsvina, the government-run "clean up" of urban shanty-towns, displaced more than 700,000 people and resulted in more than $60 million dollars of property damage. This has exacerbated the already rampant inflation, drained the economy of basic commodities, and put millions of Zimbabweans in need of food aid.

Robert Mugabe is the only ruler Zimbabwe has even known, having come to power at Zimbabwe's independence in 1980. Mugabe's Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF) party has ruthlessly dominated Zimbabwe's politics for more than 20 years. Although elections have been held regularly, none have been open or transparent. Mugabe and his ruling party have used violence and intimidation to keep opponents from voting and have rigged every election to their advantage.

The impact of IRI's program, which focuses on leadership cohesion, communications and building grassroots structures, has been vital, especially in the lead up to the 2005 parliamentary elections. IRI continues to work with our partners to better educate them on constituent relations and outreach.

Political Overview

Head of Government: President Robert Gabriel Mugabe Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front

Type of Government: dictatorship

Suffrage: universal, age 18

Elections Calendar

Program Overview

Focus of Program: strengthening democracy and strengthening civil society