Zimbabwe @ 36, Mugabe charges citizens to shun corruption

Zimbabwe marked 36 years of independence with President Mugabe calling on the citizenry to shun corruption, tribalism, and nepotism.

The long time president delivered a speech in the capital Harare in which he brought to fore issues affecting the southern African economy.

Zimbabwe: Independence day not about denouncing western powers, opposition tells Mugabe https://t.co/6vcLNn7BwR pic.twitter.com/cqmIUIcspt

— The Africa Report (@theafricareport) April 18, 2016

According to a state owned newspaper, Mugabe apologised for late payments to pensioners, as well as delays in paying salaries and bonuses to government employees.

The paper added that Mugabe praised security forces in the country saying that they have defended Zimbabwe’s sovereignty.

Some residents say that the country is not independent as only a small part of the population is benefiting.

“There is no independence because the country for which we fought was given to a few individuals at the top,” said a resident.

“It’s survival of the fittest, added another,” decrying the lack of job opportunities.

The celebrations come at a time that the county is facing the worst drought in decades forcing the government to declare a state of emergency in February.

An official of the ruling party identified as Saviour Kasukuwere, said that Zimbabweans must work to develop the country, but an opposition spokesperson Obert Gutu says the struggle continues.

News Agencies, AFP