When I summarised the three solution models available for Zimbabwe to address its current challenges, many preferred the revolution model, because they think it will remove the root causes of all our problems once and for all.
I must admit that while I want us to remove the root causes of the problems we have in Zimbabwe, I am convinced that it is only a consensus model that can do that in a sustainable and less costly way.
Consensus is reached through dialogue, and hence require an initial deposit of humility from the parties involved. This is why many doubt whether the current actors are willing to do that. What are carrots and sticks to encourage dialogue?
Since consensus is reached thru dialogue, it is the only route that can instil TRUST and CONFIDENCE, the two ingredients we are currently missing for national convergence. Revolutions produce winners and losers and hence entrench mistrust.
Revolutions world over have tended not to deliver what they promised. Those who preside the revolution tend to be the most courageous but not necessarily the most intelligent. They then become the new oppressors. Examples abound!!
So while at face value a revolution promises a permanent solution, in reality, it can give you what you didn’t bargain for. Consensus demand exchange of ideas outcomes may not be perfect but have broad ownership.
LET’S END WITH A WARNING! A NATION THAT DOES NOT SATISFACTORILY ACT ON THE CRIES OF THE VULNERABLE, CREATES INEVITABLE CONDITIONS FOR A REVOLUTION. ONCE ITS FIRES HAVE BEEN LIT, NO AMOUNT OF AMMUNITION CAN STOP IT!
Pastor Kenneth Mtata Explains Why He Prefers The Dialogue Route To Break Zim's Political Impasse
