Zimbabwe: #ThisFlag or #OurFlag? the Digital Fray for Zimbabwe's Soul

analysis

In the run-up to this year's Africa Day celebrations, two clashing social media movements are revealing Zimbabweans' political loyalties. TENDAI MARIMA rounds up the storm around #ThisFlag and #OurFlag, and asks whether either movement will show tangible results for Zimbabwe's long-suffering population.

Tagged #OurFlag, pro-Mugabe adverts are appearing on Zimbabwe state broadcaster and publications in the lead-up to the 25 May Million Man March in support of President Robert Mugabe. Reminiscent of yesteryear's fast track land reform program when the government flighted jingles to convince the people that controversial farm seizures were part of an unfinished Chimurenga (war), #OurFlag urges the masses to demonstrate in support of President Robert Mugabe. Themed with a song about Jesus - "Unconquerable" - as a suggestive reference to the 92-year old revolutionary, the adverts encourage people to join the Africa Day tribute to the world's oldest sitting president.

...

AllAfrica publishes around 400 reports a day from more than 100 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.

Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.