On March 9, 2015, prominent Zimbabwean pro-democracy activist Itai Dzamara was abducted by what people believe to be government officials and has not been seen since. “Where is Itai?” The question is at the core of bubbling resistance.
On the 11th month since his disappearance, I decided to send a letter to the editors of the major opposition newspapers about Itai:
Editor – Just last week, I entered Zimbabwe for the first time. As a liberation theologian from the United States, I was hopeful to hear stories of people resisting the Mugabe regime. Instead, I’ve heard about chronic despair. The bus driver talked about being constantly afraid. The teacher talked about losing his farm. The businessman talked about corruption. The villagers talked about hunger. The student talked about leaving. The nurse talked about not getting paid. The clerk talked about pollution. The accounts of brutality were truly endless. I would imagine all the books of the world could not contain the present despair of Zimbabwe. People keep telling me that resistance is futile. Reading your news reminded me that Itai Dzamara didn’t think so. Repeatedly, Itai risked his life seeking to liberate his country. Through his prophetic sacrifices, Itai is calling a people forward. Where is Itai? While I hope he’s found alive, I pray that he will also be found alive in the hearts and minds of the people of this nation. Though I’ll be leaving soon, I know he’s in me.
Rev. Dr. Jeff Hood
Texas, USA
more info:
a link to an Amnesty International interview with Itai’s wife : https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/campaigns/2015/09/zimbabwe-where-is-itai-dzamara/
Pindula biography page:
http://www.pindula.co.zw/Itai_Dzamara
Amen.
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