\n<\/p>\n
Citizens Want Real Freedom, Not Symbolic Independence, Opposition Movement Declares<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
Tinashe Sambiri\u2013 The Action Democratic Movement (ADM) has issued a strongly worded Independence Day message calling for what it describes as \u201creal freedom\u201d in Zimbabwe, arguing that political independence has not translated into meaningful change for ordinary citizens.<\/p>\n
In a statement released on Friday titled \u201cIndependence Message to Zimbabwe, Africa, and the World,\u201d the opposition movement said the country faces a \u201cpainful contradiction\u201d where sovereignty exists in name, but many citizens still live without basic freedoms and dignity.<\/p>\n
\u201cToday, we stand at a painful contradiction. Zimbabwe is an independent, sovereign nation \u2014 recognized by the world. But for many of our people, true freedom remains a distant dream,\u201d the statement read.<\/p>\n
ADM paid tribute to liberation war heroes, saying their sacrifice was meant to secure a just and equal society that has not yet been realised.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe honour, with deep reverence, our fallen heroes \u2014 the brave sons and daughters of this soil who sacrificed their lives for a Zimbabwe that was meant to be just, equal, and free from corruption and oppression,\u201d it said.<\/p>\n
\u201cTheir vision was not for a nation where poverty is widespread, hospitals collapse, young people are unemployed, and voices are silenced.\u201d<\/p>\n
The movement questioned whether the current state of the country reflects the ideals of the liberation struggle.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs we remember the Unknown Soldiers, we must ask ourselves: Is this the Zimbabwe they died for?\u201d it said.<\/p>\n
Turning to ordinary citizens, ADM said independence should be measured through living conditions rather than symbolism.<\/p>\n
\u201cTo the ordinary Zimbabwean \u2014 the vendor, the teacher, the nurse, the youth, the farmer \u2014 we see your struggle. We hear your cry. Independence must mean dignity in your daily life, not just a flag and a national anthem,\u201d the statement read.<\/p>\n
The organisation also called on its members to remain committed to constitutionalism and citizen-focused politics.<\/p>\n
\u201cTo members of ADM: this is our moment of responsibility. We must remain principled, people-centered, and fearless in defending the Constitution and the rights of every citizen,\u201d it said.<\/p>\n
ADM urged national unity beyond political affiliation, arguing that economic hardship affects all Zimbabweans equally.<\/p>\n
\u201cFreedom cannot be partisan. Hunger does not choose a party. Suffering does not discriminate. Let us unite around justice, accountability, and national renewal,\u201d it said.<\/p>\n
The statement also extended its message beyond Zimbabwe\u2019s borders, linking the country\u2019s challenges to broader continental struggles.<\/p>\n
\u201cTo our brothers and sisters across Africa: Zimbabwe\u2019s struggle is not isolated. It reflects a broader call for genuine democracy, economic justice, and leadership that serves the people,\u201d it said.<\/p>\n
ADM called on regional and international actors to support democratic reforms, saying stability must be grounded in justice and human rights.<\/p>\n
\u201cTo SADC and the international community: we call for solidarity, not silence. Stability in our region must be built on justice, human rights, and the will of the people,\u201d it said.<\/p>\n
The movement also acknowledged Zimbabweans living in the diaspora, describing them as an essential part of the nation\u2019s future.<\/p>\n
\u201cTo the diaspora: you remain an integral part of this nation. Your sacrifices, your voices, and your hopes matter. Zimbabwe is your home, and its future is tied to you,\u201d it said.<\/p>\n
Concluding its message, ADM said Zimbabwe must move beyond symbolic independence toward what it termed \u201ctrue liberation.\u201d
\u201cWe do not reject independence \u2014 we reclaim its meaning. We call for real freedom, not symbolic independence; leadership that serves, not rules; a Constitution that is defended, not manipulated; and an economy that works for the people, not the privileged few,\u201d the statement read.<\/p>\n
\u201cLet this be the turning point where we move from independence without freedom to true liberation. Zimbabwe must rise \u2014 not for a few, but for all. The struggle continues, but so does our hope,\u201d it added.<\/p>\n
\t\t\t<\/p>\n
<\/p><\/div>\n
\n