The correct option is (c).
Explanation
Zimbabwe attained independence from White minority rule in 1980. Since then, the political landscape has been dominated by the party that led the liberation movement, though the nature of governance evolved into an authoritarian regime over time.- Statement 1 is Correct: Since attaining independence in 1980, the country has been ruled by ZANU-PF (Zimbabwe African National Union – Patriotic Front), the party that led the freedom struggle. Its leader, Robert Mugabe, remained the dominant political figure for nearly four decades.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Robert Mugabe ruled Zimbabwe from 1980 until 2017. Although elections were held regularly, they were often marred by unfair practices. Furthermore, his government amended the Constitution multiple times to increase the powers of the President and make him less accountable, rather than ruling democratically without amendments.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Under Mugabe's regime, opposition party workers were harassed and their meetings disrupted. Public protests and demonstrations against the government were declared illegal. Laws were established to limit the right to criticize the President, and the media was heavily controlled to favor the ruling party.
Key Takeaway: Popular approval in elections is not a sufficient guarantee of democracy; governments can become undemocratic and authoritarian by amending constitutions to consolidate power and suppressing civil liberties, as seen in Zimbabwe under Robert Mugabe.