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As Zimbabwe faces challenging times with economic instability, rising unemployment, and political tensions, the Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference (ZCBC) has released a powerful Lenten Pastoral Letter urging for justice, renewal, and national reflection.
Fr. Johnston Z. Mlambo – Harare.
Just before Ash Wednesday, the Letter was unveiled, shedding light on the country’s overwhelming public debt of $21 billion, far surpassing the estimated 2025 budget of $10.6 billion.
The economic crisis, compounded by corruption, business closures, and job losses, continues to widen the gap between the affluent and the impoverished in Zimbabwe.
Proclaiming the Year of the Lord’s Favour
Titled “…to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour” (Luke 4:19), the Pastoral Letter draws its essence from the spirituality of the Jubilee Year 2025, themed “Pilgrims of Hope.”
The bishops draw inspiration from biblical jubilee principles, emphasizing debt relief, social justice, and the restoration of dignity to the oppressed.
Highlighting the harsh realities faced by Zimbabweans, the Letter addresses the burden of high debt that continues to hinder development, with exorbitant interest rates imposed by international financial institutions perpetuating economic enslavement for Zimbabwe and other developing nations.
Divisive Politics as a Distraction
Quoting Pope Saint John Paul II’s call for decisive action on debt relief, the bishops advocate for global financial reforms to enable struggling nations to break free from the cycle of poverty.
Besides economic struggles, Zimbabwe grapples with political instability and internal tensions within the ruling ZANU-PF party. The recent arrest of journalist Blessed Mhlanga, accused of inciting violence, has heightened concerns of political suppression.
Furthermore, discussions on a potential ‘Third Term’ for President Emmerson Mnangagwa have caused rifts within the ruling party and society, diverting attention from critical national issues like poverty, unemployment, and corruption.
Call for National Metanoia
The Letter also sheds light on the pervasive corruption infiltrating various sectors of the economy, expressing worry over a governance system that rewards the corrupt while the majority suffer.
In response, the bishops call for a national metanoia—a true repentance and transformation. They stress the need for a collective shift in mindset, policies, and institutional structures to foster justice and the common good.
Relief at Government’s Abolition of the Death Penalty Act
The bishops commend the abolition of the Death Penalty Act as a step towards upholding human dignity. However, they emphasize the necessity for more actions to restore fairness, equity, and moral integrity in governance and society.
As Zimbabwe enters the sacred season of Lent, the bishops urge all faithful to reflect on the deeper meaning of the Jubilee Year 2025, emphasizing forgiveness, restoration, and justice.
Amidst economic hardships, political uncertainties, and social divisions, the bishops’ message serves as a call to action—to restore dignity, combat injustice, and embody true ‘pilgrims of hope’ during these challenging times.
