Zimbabwe politicians dazzle with hat campaign

Zimbabwe politicians dazzle with hat campaign

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By Staff Reporter

WHEN Zimbabwe's parliamentary elections are concluded next Thursday, this poll will probably be remembered more for the distinctive head gear of the main parties' leaders -- a break from the hate campaign which accompanied previous elections.

Under the baking African sun, President Robert Mugabe, opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai and the mercurial former Information Minister Jonathan Moyo have been leading a fashion revolution with some distinctive head wear.

At almost all their public appearences canvassing for votes, Tsvangirai and Moyo appear to have gone for the Cowboy hats.

Mugabe who has previously referred to himself as an "old young man" surprised party faithful at a recent rally when he appeared with his head drapped in a colourful bandana.

Mugabe, 81 this year, has also gone for caps with the national colours.

Princess Kwawula, a fashion columnist with the Fusion Voice newspaper said Mugabe was desperate to show his youthful side, but observed that it exposed him to ridicule.

"Head gears tell tales about the people wearing them. In most instances it`s always what they have to do with what they are wearing," said Khawula. "Mugabe is obviously an old man and by wearing a bandana he is desperate to prove he still got what it takes to be the last man standing. Wearing the national colours of Zimbabwe proves what he is working for as a politician and that gives him marks.

"Western hats are often worn with the impression of power and with men, that exceeds the personality on the outer level. With no exception of both Tsvangirai and Moyo, it's funny how they chose to come out with the same Cowboy hats. It reminds me of the TV series Dallas where tycoons were often at each other's throats to prove who is who in the business. One can question the credibility of these cowboys.

"Comparing them all, Mugabe speaks what he wears. His attire, no matter how ridiculous it makes him look, shows his passion for politlics. I have to give it to the old man."
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