Exactly 20% of Zimbabwean citizens believe the country has become more democratic over the past five years, according to an Afrobarometer survey. The findings contrast with 25% of respondents who report that the nation has grown less democratic during the same period, while 41% perceive no change in the political trajectory under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration.
Public Assessment of Political Trajectory
The latest data maps a divided public sentiment regarding governance and political institutions under Mnangagwa. While one in five citizens see democratic progress, a slightly larger share feels conditions have worsened, and four in 10 detect absolute stagnation.
Ruling Zanu PF Party Maintains Strong Hold on Power
Political momentum continues to favor the ruling Zanu PF party, which maintains a strong hold on power through victories in local authority and parliamentary elections. The opposition has mounted minimal resistance against recent policy shifts, legislative amendments, and new laws. This lack of political friction has allowed the ruling party to cement its authority throughout the review period.
Historical Context of Mnangagwa’s Administration
The survey results provide a political boost for President Mnangagwa’s regime, which has carried a bad boy tag since taking power following the November 2017 military-led coup that unseated late President Robert Mugabe. Fewer than half of survey respondents currently classify Zimbabwe as a full democracy or a democracy with minor problems, matching the exact proportion that views the country as undemocratic.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Afrobarometer Findings
Where is support for democracy strongest in Zimbabwe?
Support for democracy as a preferred form of government is higher in the countryside than in urban areas, according to the Afrobarometer report.
How do citizens view the threat to democracy over the last five years?
Seven in 10 citizens report that democracy has not been threatened during this timeframe, and an equal number state they have never felt concerned about its status.
What proportion of the population considers Zimbabwe undemocratic?
Fewer than half of survey respondents consider Zimbabwe a full democracy or a democracy with minor problems, while the exact same share views the country as undemocratic.