How corruption is reflected in language: the case of Zimbabwean Shona

Abstract

This paper informed by Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), the Speech Act Theory (SAT) and the Functionalist Theory of Language, argues that many Zimbabweans as reflected in the Shona language have become corrupt. It puts forward the theory that in most cases where services are asked for or are supposed to be provided, there are certain words and phrases that are couched in a manner that is reflective of people requesting for or demanding bribes. The paper laments that attempts to eliminate corruption are almost insurmountable because the rot affects almost everyone, the rich and the poor as well as the powerful, and those without power. It does not however suggest that people become corrupt because of language, but that language becomes reflective of the cancer that has largely blighted the country. The paper does this through an exegesis of selected phrases such as Pano panoti ini (This is my space) and Regai vambodyewo (It is their time to eat, viz, Let them loot or enrich themselves since it is their time) that show the depth of the rot with some people even condoning it. The paper concludes by pointing out that although language has always been used as a vehicle in corrupt transactions, the Shona language is today more reflective of this cancer largely because of the economic challenges that the country of Zimbabwe is facing.