Zimbabwe marks 27 years of independence today, but mounting economic problems and a government crackdown on the political opposition have overshadowed celebrations.
Critics accuse President Robert Mugabe, in power since independence from Britain in 1980, of plunging the southern African state into crisis through policies such as the seizure of white-owned farms and the lack of economic reform that has see inflation spiral to 1,700 per cent.
Mr Mugabe claims the highest inflation rate in the world and a rapidly shrinking economy is a result of economic sanctions imposed by the West.
Yesterday, he lauded his success in beating off an attempt by "evildoers" to unseat him and urged people to be patient as his government battles the economic crisis.
Speaking at a children's party ahead of the independence anniversary, the Zimbabwean leader said he had managed to "override the little storm" he said had been mounted by the opposition and his critics in the West.
Western powers deny there is a programme to overthrow Mr Mugabe unconstitutionally, but say they are merely trying to restore democracy in Zimbabwe and to help revive an economy battered by government mismanagement.
Rising consumer, an 80 per cent jobless rate, chronic food and fuel shortages have increased poverty levels in a country with potentially one of Africa's most promising economies.
The country will mark the anniversary today with rallies, military displays and sports festivities around the country.
Mr Mugabe, who has been endorsed by his ruling ZANU-PF party to run again for president in elections next year, will address the main rally at a stadium in Harare.
But growing economic hardships, especially in major towns, have overshadowed the celebrations.