Recently, renowned economist Gift Mugano announced on the micro-blogging website, X, that he was retiring from commenting on the economy.
This was after the ruling party’s (Zanu PF) spokesperson Chris Mutsvangwa allegedly made several inferences about Mugano’s character, according to the economist.
In Mugano’s words, the economist told his followers that Mutsvangwa described him as someone who was anti-economic progress, among other name-calling insults.
Thus, the economist decided not to comment on the economy anymore. Can you blame him considering what the Zanu PF government has been linked to since independence: torture, abductions, murder, rape, and even the Gukurahundi genocide?
However, what is shocking about these alleged statements is that Mutsvangwa is not just a party official anymore, no, since September 2023, he is a sitting cabinet official.
He is the Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs minister.
What that means is that a government representative actively intimidated a well know official into silence.
The government for years has been accused of this for a long time, which it has denied, but now it’s on display for everyone to see.
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This Zanu PF government can no longer say it welcomes dissenting voices anymore as the “cat is out the bag”, again!
This is very sad because imagine running a country with just yes people.
Do you think under such conditions a country can grow? Problems can be heard? Solutions to challenges can be found? Local and foreign partnerships can be made? Accountability can be promoted? Transparency can exist? And, democracy can thrive?
Well, if you are a rational person no.
The 19th century English economist, John Stuart Mill, made this famous quote:
“The worth of a state in the long run is the worth of the individuals composing it.”
This implies that a society benefits from the diversity of perspectives and opinions, as it allows for a richer exchange of ideas and the potential for better decision-making. In the context of the economy, diverse viewpoints and dissenting voices can contribute to innovation, problem-solving, and ultimately foster economic growth.
In other words, being different means being an alternative not a stumbling block.
Basically, when economists say the government is delusional to think a currency depreciation of nearly 800% in one year and close to 50% in the first two weeks of the following year, it shouldn’t get mad, it should listen.
A diverse range of voices contribute to a more robust, adaptive and responsive economic system. It allows for the harnessing of collective intelligence, fosters innovation, and ensures that policies are more reflective of the complex and dynamic nature of modern economies.
A government that reflects the diversity of its populace is more likely to create policies that address the multifaceted needs of its citizens. Fair representation ensures that the concerns of different demographic groups are considered, fostering inclusivity and social cohesion. This not only strengthens the social fabric but also lays the foundation for sustained economic growth by reducing disparities and promoting equal opportunities.
The dynamism of economic conditions demands a flexible and adaptive policy framework. Differing voices contribute to the agility required to respond effectively to changing circumstances. Policies that are informed by a variety of perspectives are better equipped to navigate the uncertainties of a rapidly evolving global economy.
Folks, what we describe to you is called democracy!
