IJPSD

ISSN: 2360-784X

 International Journal of Political Science and Development
 

International Journal of Political Science and Development

Vol. 8(4), pp. 137-148, April, 2020. 

DOI: 10.14662/IJPSD2020.085

ISSN: 2360-784X

Research article

Military Intervention as a Means of Dealing with Dictatorship: THE Zimbabwean Experience

¹Anna Rudo Motsi and ²Jeffrey Kurebwa

¹Department of Peace and Governance, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura, Zimbabwe

²Department of Peace and Governance, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura, Zimbabwe

Accepted 30 April 2020

The purpose of the study was to understand the effectiveness of a military intervention in dealing with dictatorship. Qualitative methodology was used. A case study approach was used to explore findings in Zimbabwe. Key informant interviews and semi-structured interviews were used as data collection methods. The results showed that there was a degree of democracy that is currently enjoyed after the ousting of the late former President Robert Gabriel Mugabe. Harmonized elections held on 31 July 2018 were less violent, international observers were invited to observe and the opposition parties campaigned in areas traditionally regarded as ZANU PF strongholds. Results also showed that the military intervention was indeed constitutional as it was carried out observing the Constitution of Zimbabwe. Findings of the study also showed the link between democracy and military intervention. Recommendations proffered include formulating legislations that limit Presidential powers and for the President to account to Parliament. There is need to effect laws that govern the role of the military in civilian matters, so as to avoid another military intervention.  The international community is recommended to denounce military incursions in politics as soon as possible to stop the trend from erupting again. 

Key words: coup d’état, military intervention, Constitution, stability, Zimbabwe, elections, Robert Gabriel Mugabe, Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa