The Hardest Lesson of Freedom
The Hardest Lesson of Freedom
“The hardest lesson of my life has come to me late. It is that a nation can win freedom without its people becoming free.”
- Joshua Nkomo
This profound statement by Joshua Nkomo encapsulates a deep paradox in the quest for national liberation and personal emancipation. Nkomo, a prominent figure in Zimbabwe’s fight for independence, highlights a critical distinction between political sovereignty and genuine freedom for the citizenry. This essay will explore the implications of Nkomo’s insight, examining historical and contemporary examples, and drawing on quotes from other influential figures to underscore the enduring relevance of his observation.
The Context of Nkomo’s Reflection
Joshua Nkomo’s realization emerged from the turbulent history of Zimbabwe, which achieved independence from British colonial rule in 1980. The struggle for liberation was arduous, marked by sacrifices and an unwavering desire to establish a nation free from colonial oppression. However, the aftermath of independence revealed a disheartening reality: the transition from colonial rule to self-governance did not automatically translate into freedom for the people.
The Illusion of Political Sovereignty
The case of Zimbabwe underlines the complexity of post-colonial governance. While the nation had rid itself of external domination, internal governance posed new challenges. Robert Mugabe’s regime, which initially symbolized the promise of freedom, soon became synonymous with authoritarian rule and human rights abuses. Nkomo’s words resonate in this context, as political independence failed to deliver the anticipated liberation for Zimbabweans.
Frantz Fanon, another towering figure in anti-colonial thought, offers a complementary perspective. In his seminal work, “The Wretched of the Earth,” Fanon argues that the post-colonial elite often replicates the oppressive structures of the colonial regime. This “national bourgeoisie” becomes more invested in maintaining power than in transforming society. Fanon’s insights echo Nkomo’s lesson, emphasizing the need for a deeper, structural change beyond mere political independence.
Contemporary Reflections
South Africa’s journey post-apartheid offers a parallel narrative. The end of apartheid in 1994 was a monumental achievement, heralded as the dawn of true freedom for all South Africans. However, the persistence of economic inequality and social disparities illustrates that the promise of freedom remains unfulfilled for many. Nelson Mandela’s successor, Thabo Mbeki, acknowledged this gap, noting that political liberation was not enough to eradicate the legacy of apartheid’s socio-economic injustices.
Economic Freedom as True Emancipation
Economic freedom is a critical component often overlooked in the discussion of liberation. Nkomo’s reflection implies that true freedom encompasses not only political rights but also economic empowerment and social justice. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first president, famously stated, “Seek ye first the political kingdom, and all else shall be added unto you.” While Nkrumah emphasized political sovereignty as a precursor to other forms of freedom, the experiences of Ghana and other post-colonial states suggest that economic independence and equitable development are equally crucial.
The Role of Education and Consciousness
The path to true freedom also involves education and the awakening of social consciousness. Paulo Freire, a Brazilian educator and philosopher, posited in “Pedagogy of the Oppressed” that education is a tool for liberation. Freire argued that for people to achieve true freedom, they must first become aware of their oppression and develop the critical consciousness necessary to challenge and transform their reality. This aligns with Nkomo’s assertion, as a nation’s political independence without an educated and conscious populace can still lead to a form of bondage.
Cultural Freedom and Identity
Cultural liberation is another dimension essential for true freedom. Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, a Kenyan writer and academic, has extensively discussed the decolonization of the mind. He argues that the imposition of colonial languages and cultural norms stifles the true expression of the colonized people’s identity. For Ngũgĩ, reclaiming cultural heritage and fostering a sense of pride in one’s history and traditions are fundamental to achieving complete freedom.
Conclusion
Joshua Nkomo’s late-life realization serves as a powerful reminder of the multifaceted nature of freedom. Political independence is a significant milestone, but it is not the end of the journey. True freedom requires economic empowerment, social justice, cultural reclamation, and an enlightened populace. As history and contemporary examples demonstrate, the struggle for genuine emancipation is ongoing and demands a holistic approach. In honoring Nkomo’s insight, we are called to continually strive for a deeper, more comprehensive freedom that truly benefits all citizens.
Justin F. Miles
~ Freedom is a long walk and liberation is everpresent