What role do Zimbabwe’s security institutions play in the governance of Zimbabwe and the management of its economy? What part could they play in the transition to a post-Mugabe Zimbabwe? This background briefing from the Council on Foreign Relations outlines the role of Zimbabwe’s security institutions. It finds that as Zimbabwe’s economic crisis has deepened, President Robert Mugabe has ceded significant power to the country’s security forces. However, experts are divided over whether the security sector can help to bring in a new government in Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe’s security sector reports directly to, and is funded from the office of, Robert Mugabe, who seeks above all to remain in power. Since the 2002 elections the state has become more militarised, with military figures occupying high-level positions in civilian institutions. The cabinet’s authority has been superseded by that of the Joint Operations Command, which consists of the heads of intelligence, the military and the police. Mugabe’s dependence on the military also extends to the economy, which is overseen by the National Security Council. The military’s role in the economy has been destructive and has led to massive hoarding and acute shortages of basic goods.
Analysts are divided on whether Zimbabwe’s security institutions will help or hinder the transition to a post-Mugabe government. Splits within security institutions have become more pronounced and many within the security sector – particularly in the lower ranks – may no longer support Mugabe. Zimbabwe’s security sector consists of:
- The Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO), which is the most powerful arm of the security apparatus, deeply feared by Zimbabweans and thought to have thousands of operatives. However, some believe that the CIO is less powerful than feared.
- The military, which has been Mugabe’s bedrock of support. Mugabe has made a major effort to maintain the military’s loyalty, distributing rewards to military officials. It is nevertheless thought to be deeply divided, even at senior levels.
- The police, who execute the orders of the Joint Operations Command and are viewed by the public as untrustworthy. While experts believe that many policemen dislike how politicised the force has become, the head of the force is loyal to Mugabe.
- Militias made up of war veterans and youths, who loot land, beat opposition members and rape women and girls linked to opposition groups. Ahead of elections they are charged with distributing food aid and intimidating voters.
- demilitarising government functions;
- demobilising youth militias and war veterans, who are concerned that they may face legal retribution for acts of violence committed under Mugabe’s government;
- restructuring the intelligence organisation, military and police;
- training officials in civilian policing;
- institutionalising human rights and vetting officials for past abuses; and
- training parliamentarians to effectively oversee the military.
