'Democracy in Zimbabwe From Liberation to Liberalization' by Alfred G. Nhema

This book examines the dialectics of political liberalisation in Zimbabwe, over time, from the settler period to the late nineties. The study takes in theoretical parameters for political and economic concepts and assumptions; and provides a historical overview of settler rule, civil society reactions, and political developments from 1945-1979. The author reveals stark historical continuities during this period. He argues that the post-independence state has sought, like its settler predecessor, to impose its hegemonic position by limiting the level of political space in which civil society could operate; corporatist structures and policies have militated against the establishment of a fully-fledged democratic society. The final chapter, which analyses structural adjustment and liberalisation, and the legacy of settler rule, offfers an assessment of the prospects of a lasting democractic process in Zimbabwe, and likely obstacles.