Why Did the Wakandans Hunt Down Zemo After Bucky Freed Him?

The complex dynamics of post-conflict relations and international law were on full display when the Wakandans sought to apprehend Zemo after he was released by Bucky Barnes. This intricate situation involved the interests of the UN, the principles of international justice, and the internal politics of Wakanda itself.

Revenge and Reconciliation

The Wakandans were determined to recapture Zemo due to his direct involvement in the death of their revered King, TChaka. The loss of their leader was a significant blow to the cultural and political fabric of Wakanda, and the memory of this tragedy was a stark reminder of the chaos that Zemo had brought into their lives. It was crucial for them to have closure and justice for their king, even if it meant being urged by the international community to use an external prison.

International Relations and Factorization

Wakanda, having embraced its new role as a global powerhouse, was obliged to maintain diplomatic ties with the United Nations. The decision to send Zemo to The Raft, a notorious US facility, was a strategic move that balanced their internal justice with the need for international cooperation. This choice to hand Zemo over was tempered by a practical understanding that The Raft would ensure he received the kind of trial and sentence that international law and political circumstances required.

It’s also noteworthy that the events following the release of Zemo from Hydra's clutches could have been influenced by other players within the Pantheon itself. Contessa Valmont and Ross didn’t necessarily want to see Zemo held in a Wakandan prison, given the potential flashbacks and emotional burden it would bring to Wakanda's citizens. However, the international nature of Zemo's crimes and the desired neutrality of the Wakandans' legal proceedings meant that an external facility was the only viable option.

A Power Play

The decision to send Zemo to The Raft also served a broader purpose. By sending Zemo to the United States, the Wakandans were making a political statement. It demonstrated their willingness to play by international rules and their openness to working with global powers. This move was a power play of sorts, a recognition that their influence had grown beyond their borders and that their actions had consequences on a worldwide scale. The choice to involve the UN and the US in Zemo’s case underscored the complex web of international relations and the delicate balance of power that existed in the modern world.

Moreover, the engagement with the international community could have been a strategic opportunity for Wakanda to align itself with major global powers, such as the United States. By taking this path, Wakanda was positioning itself as a responsible and cooperative member of the international community, aligning with global norms and expectations. The decision to allow Zemo to face an international trial was a demonstration of their commitment to justice on a larger scale, beyond the borders of their secluded nation.

The Raft: A Unique Legal Entity

It's important to understand that The Raft, while operated by the United States, is a distinct legal entity. No single nation holds absolute control over it, and it serves as a refuge for the world's most dangerous felons. This unique configuration of governance made it an ideal choice for housing Zemo. Governments, recognizing the Raft’s irreplaceable function, often defer to its use, understanding that it provides a necessary and centralized location for global justice.

From a pragmatic standpoint, the Raft offered a solution that served the dual purposes of justice and diplomatic balance. Allowing Zemo to be detained there was a calculated move to uphold international law while respecting the political sensitivities of the Wakandan people. It was a compromise that allowed for the necessary legal proceedings while minimizing the emotional impact on the citizens of Wakanda.

Conclusion

The decision to send Zemo to The Raft was a multifaceted move that encompassed geopolitical strategy, legal obligations, and cultural considerations. It was a testament to the complex interplay of international relations and the need for a unified global justice system. In the grand scheme of things, this decision was more about ensuring international cooperation and upholding the rule of law than it was about the personal vendettas of the Wakandans.