This chapter draws on theories of the nation and narration to reflect on the political performances of President Mnangagwa and the political philosophy (or lack thereof) that frames his politics. The terms “EDism” and “Ediocy” invoked in the title of this chapter refer to a political system (EDism) that draws its energies from the personality of President Emerson Dambudzo (ED) Mnangagwa and his system of governance (Ediocy) that cannot pass the test of reason. These terms have been used by ordinary citizens on social media platforms to describe President Mnangagwa’s rule, particularly his affinity for dark humour and reckless utterances amid an unprecedented economic crisis. Doc Vikela’s comedies, which are the focal texts in this chapter, mock President Mnangagwa’s politics and political performances by adopting his regalia, gestures and utterances. I argue that through his comedies, Doc Vikela counters official narratives that portray President Mnangagwa as a progressive leader by highlighting his affinity for dark humour, reckless utterances and empty signifiers in the middle of a life-threatening crisis.

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EDism, EDiocy, and the Performance of Illegitimacy in the Second Republic: The Case of Doc Vikela’s Online Stand-up Comedies

  • Rodwell Makombe

摘要

This chapter draws on theories of the nation and narration to reflect on the political performances of President Mnangagwa and the political philosophy (or lack thereof) that frames his politics. The terms “EDism” and “Ediocy” invoked in the title of this chapter refer to a political system (EDism) that draws its energies from the personality of President Emerson Dambudzo (ED) Mnangagwa and his system of governance (Ediocy) that cannot pass the test of reason. These terms have been used by ordinary citizens on social media platforms to describe President Mnangagwa’s rule, particularly his affinity for dark humour and reckless utterances amid an unprecedented economic crisis. Doc Vikela’s comedies, which are the focal texts in this chapter, mock President Mnangagwa’s politics and political performances by adopting his regalia, gestures and utterances. I argue that through his comedies, Doc Vikela counters official narratives that portray President Mnangagwa as a progressive leader by highlighting his affinity for dark humour, reckless utterances and empty signifiers in the middle of a life-threatening crisis.