The Rise of Barotse Separatist Nationalism in Zambia: Can Its Associated Violence Be Prevented?

Abstract

This paper explores the idea that poor governance explains the rise of separatist nationalism in situations such as Zambia, Eritrea, Sudan and Somalia (in Africa) that had previously been independently governed during the colonial times, but later joined other states at independence to enjoy normal politics, but later degenerated into violent separatist nationalism. Our argument is that centralisation of power in an environment in which cultural groups are calling for regional autonomy, for even development, and for the international community to intervene on the side of peace, create grounds that explain the rise of violent separatist movements. The Barotseland Protectorate negotiated for autonomous development and, after securing constitutional guarantees in its favour, voluntarily joined Zambia in what was expected to be a one nation, two states system. After four decades of resisting constitutional amendments in favour of the centralisation of power, the Barotse of Zambia abandoned the politics of autonomous development and started calling for a separate state. Their resolve to remain peaceful is not aided by the international community that is reluctant to intervene, exposing the political process to radicals who consider violence as an alternative. The paper argues that violent separatist politics is preventable.

Democracy and Electoral Politics in Zambia

“…Nevertheless, the Lozi, a relatively small minority group, has in the recent past articulated radical nationalist sentiments even threatening secession. They complain of political and economic marginalization at national level (Maundeni, Bwalya, and Kwerepe, 2015) Ethnicity, Inequalities and Electoral Conflict they (or at least their traditional rulers) have enjoyed a uniquely favoured position since the beginning of British South Africa Company colonial rule. The paradox of a wealthy Litunga lording it over impoverished subjects dates back to the colonial agreements between British imperialism and Barotse feudalism but it, in many ways, mirrors that of a mineral rich Zambia whose people are generally poverty stricken.…”