Zimbabwe’s Political Violence: The Exile of Francis Chipeperekwa

Francis Chipeperekwa never imagined his dreams of a prosperous life in Zimbabwe would end in exile. As a young boy, his ambition was to own a fleet of trucks, a dream he nurtured with the innocence of youth.

Fast forward to adulthood, Chipeperekwa achieved part of his vision, becoming a truck and bus driver. He felt freedom on the open roads of Zimbabwe, embracing the endless possibilities that driving represented. But everything changed in 2023 as political tensions in the country reached a peak. His life took an unexpected, terrifying turn.

Zimbabwe’s 2023 general election season was defined by a volatile political landscape. The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) opposition clashed head-on with the ruling ZANU PF. Violence became a grim hallmark of Zimbabwe’s streets, affecting ordinary citizens in all corners of the nation.

It was during this chaotic period that Chipeperekwa’s life was upended. What should have been a routine job—driving a group of CCC supporters to Murehwa—spiraled into disaster. After accidentally sideswiping a vehicle belonging to ZANU PF, his life was thrust into danger. This simple accident was perceived as an act of rebellion.

Political retaliation in Zimbabwe is often swift and severe, as illustrated by Chipeperekwa’s ordeal. His family became a target for harassment, and threats to his life forced him to make a harrowing decision. He left everything behind—his home, family, and dreams—to embark on a dangerous journey into exile.

Political violence in Zimbabwe is no stranger to those who follow the nation’s turbulent history. The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has repeatedly condemned acts of violence, especially in the run-up to elections. In January 2023, the assault of elderly CCC supporters in Murehwa made headlines, revealing the entrenched culture of intimidation.

The story of Chipeperekwa mirrors the experiences of countless Zimbabweans, forced to abandon their homeland to escape political persecution. His experience is a stark reminder of the deep societal wounds left by the intersection of politics and violence. For those like him, exile is not a choice but a survival mechanism.

Many Zimbabweans who have fled are left grappling with the psychological scars of displacement. The pain of being separated from their families, the homes they built, and the futures they dreamed of is immeasurable. Chipeperekwa speaks of his grief and the constant uncertainty about whether he will ever reunite with his loved ones.

Political violence has far-reaching implications beyond the immediate victims. The ripple effects on families, communities, and even the nation’s reputation are significant. Zimbabwe, once celebrated for its potential, now finds itself in the global spotlight for human rights abuses and systemic violence against political dissenters.

As the 2023 elections approached, tensions reached unprecedented heights, marking a dangerous period for opposition supporters. Zimbabwean authorities, often accused of turning a blind eye to violence, failed to stem the rising tide of unrest. The electoral environment was fraught with fear, intimidation, and constant surveillance.

However, these experiences are not isolated to Chipeperekwa’s story. Thousands of Zimbabweans in the diaspora face the reality of exile. Their voices, often drowned out by the larger political narrative, echo across borders. These exiles are seeking more than just refuge—they seek justice, peace, and the chance to rebuild their lives.

Chipeperekwa’s journey to the United Kingdom was one marked by peril, but also by resilience. The hope that his country will one day change is a sentiment shared by many in the diaspora. Though miles away, the dream of a free Zimbabwe remains alive for exiled citizens like him.

The Murehwa incident and its aftermath were clear signals that Zimbabwe’s political climate was deteriorating. The culture of violence has become ingrained, making it nearly impossible for peaceful political discourse to thrive. Opposition supporters and citizens have paid the ultimate price.

Zimbabwe’s 2023 elections were marred by incidents like Chipeperekwa’s, which showcased the lengths to which political actors would go to maintain power. Despite the denunciations from local and international groups, including the ZCC, the violence persisted. The global community remains watchful, but for many, it’s too late.

For Zimbabwe to move forward, it must reckon with its past. The violence inflicted upon ordinary citizens must be acknowledged, and the country’s leadership must face accountability. Without this reckoning, the cycle of fear and oppression will continue.

Chipeperekwa’s story is a microcosm of the broader struggle Zimbabwe faces today. His exile reflects the harsh reality that many Zimbabweans face: a future uncertain, dreams deferred, and a nation held captive by its own internal conflicts.

As Zimbabwe navigates its political future, the hope remains that the stories of those like Chipeperekwa will serve as a catalyst for change. Whether that change comes in time, however, remains to be seen.

The Zim Bulletin