Phillemon M. Chamburuka
A Theological reflection on Romans 13:1-7
in the 21st Century Zimbabwean Politics
Introduction
This paper focuses mainly on how Rom 13:1-7 has been interpreted by
the Zimbabwean government and how the so-called court prophets
(religious leader who blindly support the regime because they benefit
from it) have used this text to rubber-stamp political mishaps, mischief,
exploitation of the public (poor), plunder of national resources, dictator-
ship, tyranny, racism, alleged vote buying and vote rigging, rape, torture,
repressive laws, corruption, intimidation, murder, abductions, militari-
zation of state institutions, bizarre taxation; the list is endless. Special
reference will be on key topical events that took place in Zimbabwe with
the eclipse and dawn of the 21st century, these include, the formation of
a formidable opposition party (1999) in Zimbabwean politics, the his-
toric referendum in the year 2000, sporadic and haphazard land invasion
(the so-called fast track land reform programme), targeted sanctions on
the heavy weights of the former ruling party Zimbabwe African National
Party (ZANU PF), 2002 presidential elections, 2005 parliamentary elec-
tions, Operation Murambatsvina 2005, 29 March 2008 harmonised elec-
tions, 27 June 2008 runoff presidential elections, the signing of the
Global Political Agreement of 15 September 2008 and the formation of
the Government of National Unity in 13 February 2009. However, for
purposes of clarity, it is important to briefly highlight the socio-historical
context behind the writing of Rom 13:1-7 so as to avoid presupposed
prejudice on the interpretation of this text in the Zimbabwean context.
Factors that may have influenced Paul’s message in writing
Romans 13:1-7. Roman system of Governance
A number of scholars have come up with different opinions based on
Paul’s view of Roman political system. The first hypothesis or theory is
that Paul was seemingly benevolent to the governing structure of the
Roman Empire which was characterised by justice, peace and tranquil-
ity. Foster (1990:17) asserts that the Pax Romana (Roman peace) and
communications were indeed a preparation of the gospel. Meeks
(1985:17) also echoes this view in his assertion that the Roman power