Traditional justice mechanisms and reconciliation in Zimbabwe: assessing the benefits

ABSTRACT This article, using documentary evidence and interviews, discusses the benefits of deploying traditional forms of justice as one of the strategies to address the persistent challenge of political violence in Zimbabwe, especially before, during and after election periods. It argues that it is important to recognise the roles traditional leaders play, particularly in creating cultural social spaces, encouraging social harmony and promoting tolerance in communities. Experiences from states emerging from conflict have shown that justice is usually elusive for the victims. Victims are at most left to feel sorry for themselves. It is therefore important to harness the benefits of traditional justice systems in transforming relationships and bringing social change. While traditional justice predominantly favours lower-level offenders, this can prove invaluable in the short to long-term efforts aimed at building peace in affected communities.