Friday, 31st December 2010

Howzit

Well, there we have it. The end of 2010 – a year that saw very little happen in Zimbabwe except Mugabe clawing back as much of his power base as possible, a year when Mugabe placed as much political pressure on the two MDC faction as possible, a year when he stuck two fingers up at the world and continued with his dictatorial leadership style, a year when many innocent Zimbabweans fell victim of the dodgy coalition.

I could carry on, but those who have followed the news during this year will be aware of the main power plays and how the situation never improved over the last twelve months.

I am going to take a three day break and will be back on Tuesday the 4th of January 2011 - but that posting will be late as I have a dental appointment in the mid-morning...

All that remains for me to do is to wish all my readers a happy, peaceful and prosperous new year and thank you for your loyalty to this page.

-o00o-

The year 2010 comes to an end today. It witnessed numerous developments both in the social and political arena. Below are some of the quotes that made headlines in the local media.

“That’s a laughable argument. In fact it’s a very weak argument, perforated argument, I’m sure conceived by very weak and barren minds. There is no reason why a particular individual, particularly in this case, why a whole institution would try to hide behind a finger, the finger of the so-called restrictive measures,” MDC-T spokesman, Nelson Chamisa, responding to Zanu PF’s declaration that the party would not make any concessions before sanctions are removed.

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“The mischievous and barbaric calls for the prosecution of the Prime Minister of Zimbabwe over the WikiLeaks reports represent desperate acts by those whom the people unequivocally rejected in March 2008,” said the PM’s spokesperson Luke Tamborinyoka responding to calls by Zanu PF for Tsvangirai to be prosecuted over theWikileaks exposé. “Zimbabweans are not worried about what the US embassy in Harare cabled to Washington. They are only aware of their strong opinion which they cabled from the various polling stations in March 2008 entrusting their hope and faith in the person of Morgan Tsvangirai.”

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“We have seen criticism from the Reserve Bank governor this week again and we will only take note of (him) when the governor stops his megaphone criticism,” Indigenisation minister Saviour Kasukuwere commenting on RBZ governor Gideon Gono’s criticism of government’s decision to make it mandatory for foreign-owned companies to cede a 51% stake to blacks.

“When they are ready to talk we will listen. But in the meantime we will not listen to this kind of megaphone criticism. We remain determined to empower our people and we will not accept such criticism from individuals seeking relevance.”

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Methuseli Moyo, Zapu spokesperson, on Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai comments on the Matabeleland Zambezi Water Project:

“I think it was obvious from what he said that he is both ignorant and contemptuous. He is generally ignorant about Matabeleland and specifically ignorant about the Matabeleland Zambezi Water Project. Secondly, he is contemptuous of the person of a hero of the calibre of Dr Dabengwa and other Matabeleland leaders who initiated the project and pressurised the government to fund it. He doesn’t want to acknowledge the role played by our leaders through the Matabeleland Action Group.”

-———————–

“Anyone who believes they can deny the truth of our past is delusional. Covering up old wounds can only make them fester. We must face them so we don’t perpetuate the wrongs of the past” – Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai, while officially opening a photo exhibition showcasing gory pictures of the 2008 victims of violence. The police had tried to confiscate the pictures.

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Zanu PF Central committee member Godfrey Malaba on harassment of journalists:

“As a party, we also do not condone the harassment of journalists. We are in an inclusive government, so I do not see why people would say Zanu PF is harassing journalists. The co-minister of Home Affairs Theresa Makone is not a deputy minister but an equal one so it is not Zanu PF that is harassing journalists, but the inclusive government. Every ministry that is headed by a Zanu PF person, the deputy is MDC so you cannot blame Zanu PF on things done by the inclusive government.”

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Mines and Mining Development Minister Obert Mpofu on being President Mugabe’s “ever obedient son”:

“Joshua Nkomo brought liberation to this country, that is why he is called Father Zimbabwe; and President Mugabe also brought the liberation of this country. When you tell other people that you are their son they jump and say they have found a scoop.”

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“I would like to state unequivocally that the Prime Minister has spoken most definitely and conclusively on the issue of civil service remuneration. There is no government policy to freeze civil servants’ salaries at present. That is the position of the government which at the moment is cast in stone” – Public Service minister Eliphas Mukonoweshuro in support of PM Tsvangirai after Finance minister Tendai Biti had announced a civil service salary freeze, contradicting his boss, who insisted that there was no such policy.

“This government does not operate on the basis of super ministers who may frequently arrogate themselves responsibilities that are neither in their present province of competence nor designated mandate ,” he said, in clear reference to Biti.

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“The political crisis… no longer exists. The country is making progress and it is time investors started looking at Zimbabwe from a different perspective,” PM Tsvangirai tells reporters on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum on Africa.

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Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai on Minister of Local Government, Rural and Urban Development Ignatius Chombo’s alleged wealth:

“He has 15 cars. What does he want to do with all those cars? It is like a baboon that goes into a field and takes a maize cob and puts it under one armpit and then the other side. As it is walking it is attracted to another cob and breaks it again leading to many cobs collecting on the ground. That is primitive accumulation of wealth and it’s a shame.”

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“Zimbabwe shall recover by her wits and resources. Zimbabwe will not be saved by any country or organisation, least of all Western. Let our partners in the inclusive government get that so we do not waste our efforts on useless initiatives” – President Robert Mugabe addressing an ordinary session of the Zanu PF central committee in July, a week after a government delegation held a meeting with the European Union in Brussels, aimed at normalising relations between the country and the bloc.

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“They cannot be God to us today, when they were not good to us yesterday. They detained us, jailed us, shot at us, bombed us and slaughtered us in our hundreds. We bore the brunt of their cruelties and shall never forget” – President Mugabe, blasts Western diplomats during the burial of his sister Sabina at the National Heroes’ Acre in August.

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“(Prime Minister Morgan) Tsvangirai is just like a fly in a kombi or a bus. The fly can sit on the driver’s seat but that does not make it the one in charge of the bus” – War veterans leader Jabulani Sibanda, threatening villagers while on a terror campaign in Bikita West.

“He can be eliminated in the political set-up and life will go on. You can kill a fly by simply swatting it against a window.”

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“We have sought to re-engage the EU on the issue of the immediate removal of the evil sanctions that are hurting our people. We seek friendship and nor enmity, togetherness not apartness, good understanding not division” – President.

Mugabe said during the Heroes’ Day celebrations.

“But no sooner had we started the re-engagement than we realised that the EU is far from being sincere, as the bloc keeps shifting goalposts. The US and EU are keen to have our people continue suffering under the evil sanctions.”

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“Our position is clear. First and foremost, we do not recognise Zanu PF as the sole determiner of who goes to the Heroes’ Acre. We reject lock, stock and barrel the decision to deny Sibanda hero status. We are saying the Zanu PF politburo is not worthy of deciding who should go to the Heroes’ Acre or not,” said Deputy Prime Minister Arthur Mutambara after the Zanu PF politburo had denied the MDC-M vice-presidency hero status.

“Robert Mugabe has no locus standi to determine who is a hero or not.”

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“Unfortunately, we thought there would be serious revenue from diamonds. We only realised $56 million from the sale of 1,2 million carats of diamonds in the first sale. Chiadzwa has proved not to be an Eldorado” – Finance minister Tendai Biti, officially launching the 2011 National Budget consultative process.

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“For as long as I am chairman (of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission), I will do everything in my power to ensure that we never do anything that distracts our impartiality” – Justice Simpson Victor Mutambanengwe, addressing editors in Kariba.

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“By 2014, Zimbabwe will sit on high internet and you will be connected even if you don’t want. By year end we will have connected to the rest of the world and all those nightmares of boiling tea and have it before you are connected will be a thing of the past,” – ICT minister Nelson Chamisa.

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“We are on national duty giving birth. We gave birth to all of you sitting here today. You are ministers and presidents because of us, but you are now denying us the right of giving birth to the children that are going to be the leaders of tomorrow.” – Bulawayo East MP, Thabitha Khumalo (MDC-T) – December 7, 2010.

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“Mr Speaker, the Public Order and Security Amendment Bill was no great step forward. Those of us who have been in the political opposition since 2000 are well aware that all of us have been victims of this particular legislation.” – Bulawayo South MP, Eddie Cross (MDC-T) – October 5, 2010.

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“The reality of our situation today is that we have a form of education, rather than an education that is of a qualitative substance. We have schools, physical buildings and teachers in the classrooms, but the reality is that our education system has declined dramatically in the last two decades.” – Minister of Education, Sport, Arts and Culture, Senator David Coltart – March 3, 2010.

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“Mr Speaker, I wonder why Zanu PF MPs go out of the House each time an MDC MP presents a motion in this august House. My question is do they tell their supporters out in the country that we are scared of the MDC’s constructive presentations that are now awakening the country?” – Bikita South MP, Varandeni Jani (MDC-T) – Hansard October 19, 2010.

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“Madam Speaker, I will label Jabulani Sibanda as a step-child because he was not born and bred by Zanu PF. He is an insult to the Ndebele people. The people of Zaka demand this terrorist who is terrorising them to be ejected as soon as possible.” – Zaka West MP, Festus Dumbu (MDC-T) – October 19, 2010.

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“Honourable Mutseyami, the way you are dressed is not suitable for this august House. May you kindly go out and return in a proper dress code.” – Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Nomalanga Mzilikazi Khumalo (MDC-M) – Hansard November 16, 2010.

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“We are turning the National Heroes’ Acre into a National Heroes’ Hectare, full of people who do not deserve to be national heroes.” – Zaka West MP, Festus Dumbu (MDC-T) – Hansard October 19, 2010.

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“Furthermore, in terms of our superstars who are in the Diaspora that might have made mistakes – Mawere, Makamba, Ntuli Ncube and others have been de-specified, but Strive Masiyiwa has not been in the country for ten years. I have been out of the country where we were talking and discussing with people like Bill Gates and yet we cannot talk to our own superstars.” – Deputy Prime Minister Arthur Mutambara (MDC-M) – Hansard February 10th 2010.

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“Madam Speaker, the people of Zimbabwe have a right to know who killed and maimed their relatives, who stole their stock, who did everything? Zimbabweans demand that and we have a right to know.” – Kadoma Central MP, Editor Matamisa (MDC-T) – Hansard March 17, 2010.

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“My message is violence begets violence and if we train our youths to be violent, they will grow into violent adults.” – Mbire MP, Paul Mazikana (Zanu PF) – Hansard March 17th 2010.

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“We hear stories of people being arrested – it is normal. A person like Farai Maguwu can spend three weeks in jail and it is normal business as usual because there is that normalizing the unusual. So, we have a culture of being lackadaisical, indifferent, impunity, and we are trying to make a point in this statement that we cannot continue like that.” – Harare East MP, Tendai Biti (MDC-T) – Hansard December 9, 2010.

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“Madam President, there is an intruder in the House, you are breaking Zimbabwean law by allowing a stranger in the House, (referring to provincial governors unilaterally appointed by President Robert Mugabe” – Non- Constituency Senator Morgan Komichi (MDC-T) – Hansard September 9 2010.

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“Zanu PF members are a problem to me. The problem we have in this august House is that we are self-centred and not thinking about the grassroots. We are simply embarking on a pull him down syndrome, so that should there be any failures, we will apportion blame to an individual though that person would have done the work.” – Senator for Hwata, Rorana Muchichwa (MDC-T) – December 10, 2010.

-o00o-

Take care.

‘debvhu

Thursday, 30th December 2010

Howzit

The gas works continue in our street. Digging up of the road has proceeded apace, whilst we have other holes and drain covers lifted and surrounded with warning structures. The workers were in situ and working hard until about 8 o'clock last night.

This morning, I can still smell gas. The first truck arrived at 0855hrs...

-o00o-

"The Israel Diamond Exchange has expelled one of its members suspected of dealing in illicit 'blood diamonds' from a controversial Zimbabwe gem field, its president said on Wednesday.

One of the exchange dealers, David Vardi, was implicated in an attempt to smuggle 140000 dollars (107000 euros) worth of rough diamonds from Zimbabwe into Israel, said Israel Diamond Exchange president Avi Paz. "After a meeting it was decided to expel his from our ranks," paz, who is also president of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses, told AFP.

Last week Israeli customs detained an Israeli coming through the Ben Gurion International airport from waiting outside the airport."

Diamonds obviously have a lure for many people, and conflict or 'blood' diamonds seem to have an added attraction for those who might deal in that illicit trade.

It is very difficult to comment upon this sort of story as it all seems to be cut and dried. And sadly, it would appear that whatever money changed hands, it has already found its way into Mugabe's control.

-o00o-

Mugabe's party continues to use the Zimbabwe National Army to intimidate and terrorise the population as they attempt to 'educate' the masses into voting for Mugabe.

"Soldiers from the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) have embarked on a door to door terror campaign in Gutu threatening villagers to vote for President Robert Mugabe and his ZANU PF party in next year's touted election.

The military men are allegedly moving from house to house instructing the rural folks to support ZANU PF or risk losing their lives if they disobey their orders promising a devastating war should the party lose to long time political rivals Movement for Democratic Change led by Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai."

Mugabe has always depended upon the threat of violence to garner support at the ballot box. And this is one reason why he refuses to have international observers present in the country during any voting period.

Mugabe has even resorted to re-engineering the ballot after the fact, as seen in the first round of the presidential ballot in March 2008, when his party took the ballot boxes away for five weeks, finally announcing that Tsvangirai had indeed won the first round, but not by the 50%-plus-one-vote required for outright victory.

Mugabe and his senior party members have never been taken to task on this action, and it seems to have missed the notice of the MDC and all the supporters who voted for Tsvangirai.

Why has ZANU PF not been brought to answer for this action?

"A recent visit by Radio VOP to Gutu during the Christmas break holiday revealed that the soldiers deployed from the district's 4:2 infantry battalion were moving in troops of over 10 sometimes clad in their military fatigues and armed with AK47 assault rifles. They have re-established bases that were used to torture activists during the violent 2008 presidential election run-off."

Mugabe and his loyalists believe that if they keep quiet over the revelations, then the reports hold no water, or, if they do comment, it is to dismiss the story - and that, they erroneously believe, is the end of that...

-o00o-

It now would appear that the smaller faction of the MDC, led by Deputy Prime Minister Arthur Mutambara, are fully intent on ridding themselves of their leader before the congress next month.

"Deputy Prime Minister Arthur Mutambara faces a recall from the shaky coalition government after the elective congress of the smaller faction of the Movement for Democratic Change tentatively set for January 2011.

Mutambara, the present president of the MDC-M, has publicly stated he will not be seeking nomination at the party's elective congress as party secretary general Welshman Ncube has been nominated for the top post by nearly all political provinces of the party."

I stated just a day or so ago that Mutambara is a waning star in Zimbabwean politics and is probably headed back the the US as a rocket scientist...

"...it has been decided that congress will recall him from government because we cannot continue to have him as a GPA principal."

-o00o-

ZANU PF is making noises about cleaning up their act with regard to farms seized from the white commercial farmers. They have said that they will seize farms that are not being worked by the new 'owners'.

Sadly, they don't go any further with regard to multiple farm ownership which is against the policy made public by Mugabe himself, even though his family own as many as a dozen farms...

"The government will repossess farms that continue to lie idle while farmers failing to make improvements on their properties also risk losing their land, a cabinet minister has warned.

Agriculture Minister Herbert Murerwa said some beneficiaries of the government's controversial land reforms were undermining the programme to make productive use of their farms."

The failed former finance minister did not expand upon what would happen to the land so repossessed...

"We are now going to take farms back because they are tarnishing our image as ZANU PF."

You have to laugh. It is much more than the violent and racist farm seizures that have tarnished ZANU PF's image. They took the country by force, and now are intent on hanging on to it using the same means.

-o00o-

The mayhem on Zimbabwe's sub-standard highways and roads continues...

"Police say they have launched an enforcement blitz targeting errant motorists, in particular transport operators who flout the rules of the road, and impounding vehicle determined to be unsafe.

The number of people who have perished in Zimbabwean road accidents since the onset of the holiday season has risen to 68, authorities said Tuesday.

The toll climbed from 63 late Sunday to 68 Monday following a number of accidents across the country. Last year the holiday death toll exceeded 80."

The article also notes that motorists are surprised at the inclusion of armed soldiers at roadblocks on highways throughout the country.

"Activist Sydney Chisi, president of the Youth Initiative for Democracy in Zimbabwe, confirmed seeing armed soldiers at a roadblock. But he told VOA reporter Jonga Jandemiiri that he was not sure whether the soldiers had been assigned to that duty for political reasons or simply to monitor police accused of demanding bribes."

-o00o-

Take care.

'debvhu

Wednesday, 29th December 2010

Howzit

A few minutes after I finished yesterday's posting, I was stepping out the door to run a few errands and immediately I turned back, as I wanted to make a phone call to report the noxious and pungent smell of gas outside.

Even as I did, I saw a TRANSCO (now known as National Grid) vehicle arrive on the street, and they spent the rest of the day testing and checking every house in the street and worked all evening making the area safe.

Today we await the works team returning to effect a repair, the break looks like it could be from an underground line near our front lawn.

This is the scene that greeted us this morning...

I don't think that it is something we can complain about as these workers keep us safe when there is a serious threat. And if they had not been able to make the immediate area safe, then we would have been evacuated...

(Update: At 1145hrs this morning, the first workers came to begin work on the gas leak in our street.)

-o00o-

Political turncoat Jonathan Moyo has now used the Zimbabwe National Army to make Tsholotsho a 'no go' area for political activities, thereby guarding ZANU PF interests in the area.

We have watched Moyo being thrown out of ZANU PF, then manage to have himself re-elected as an independent MP, and very quickly thereafter, he rejoined ZANU PF and looks destined to take back his Information Minister job that he used so effectively against the MDC before he fall from grace...

"Former Information and Publicity Minister and MP for Tsholotsho North Professor Jonathan Moyo has declared areas in and around his constituency in Tsholotshp as no no areas for ZAPU and other political parties sources in the Zimbabwe security forces revealed.

In a statement released to the media ZAPU said it regrets to announce that police have barred our party from holding a public meeting at Tsholotsho Business Centre.

The meeting was scheduled for Wednesday 28 December. ZAPU president Dr Dumiso Dabengwa was billed to address the meeting."

So this is 'democracy' in Zimbabwe. Mugabe allows his devoted followers to beat up anyone who they don't like, whilst MPs have the ability to declare their constituencies 'no go' areas for other political parties.

Is this the only way that Mugabe can attempt to continue with his reckless, destructive and divisive rule? In my mind, making something 'illegal' makes it more curious...

And we have to recall that Tsholotsho is in Matabeleland North province, historically the stomping ground of the late Joshua Nkomo's ZAPU party. We have seen a resurgence of ZAPU activity in Matabeleland and the leaders of ZAPU no longer recognise the unity agreement signed by Nkomo and Mugabe in 1987 which brought the Gukurahundi to an end.

Moyo is a past master at the art of deception and mistruths - and he isn't wasting any time in asserting his authority.

-o00o-

And while Moyo enforces his brand of politics in Tsholotsho, the Zimbabwe National Army is being deployed into the rural areas with the apparent goal of intimidating the inhabitants of any given area.

The area selected is the Prime Minister's home area. More than just a threat then.

"Soldiers deployed here at the beginning of the festive season stunned villagers when they told them that they were trained to kill.

Villagers near Sungura shopping centre who confirmed living in fear said they were frightened by the message."

Hardly surprising really. When confronted with weapon-toting soldiers who have specific instructions to intimidate and oppress the people in a given area and these soldiers are aware that they have some sort of blanket immunity because the orders come from above - right at the very top - then I have to sympathise with the people on the ground.

But we also have to see it another way... These soldiers are taught to kill. Aren't all soldiers taught to kill - in defence of their country?

"They (soldiers) call for rallies from time to time," said a villager.

"We are not sure if what tomorrow will bring us. We live in fear that we may be beaten or even killed. We do not know the meaning of these threats," said another villager."

The article says that the police say villagers feeling that they are under threat should make a report to the local station - but we know that reports made to police only add fuel to the fire and the person making the report becomes an identified target.

Until the police are de-politicised, the idea of seeking refuge under the law is negated.

-o00o-

And the army is not content with being deployed into rural areas. Now they are manning road blocks throughout the country.

"The dreaded military police brandishing AK47 rifles have been roped into manning roadblocks alongside the Zimbabwe Republic Police force across the country raising fears among travellers who are often subjected to body searches.

The presence of the army on the roads has raised concern among travellers as many do not see the need for the army to be involved in civilian daily life especially this festive season when many people are travelling for holidays.

"A passenger travelling from Harare said that there is no need for the army to be at road blocks as that often causes unnecessary concern among passengers.

"I do not even see the need to have the army on our roads. Policemen are better as that is their duty to man roadblocks," said the passenger."

Zimbabwe does have a number of foreign visitors during the festive season, and, when travelling by road, one would assume that the impression given when passing through heavy manned and armed roadblocks that the visitors do not feel that the country is as peaceful as Mugabe would have us believe.

A very counterproductive move.

-o00o-

One of the reasons that Mugabe continues to hang on to power is the diamonds in the Manicaland Province on the Eastern border of the country with Mozambique.

Not only does the illegal trade of the precious stone stand to bolster his party's flagging financial resources, but the promise of more riches serves to feed his determination to remain in office... even if his party lost the election almost three years ago.

"Enos Chikwere spills nine uncut diamonds from a bag at Restaurante Piscina in Mozambique near the Zimbabwe border and says they're worth £75000.

"I can supply all the diamonds you need," said Chikwere, explaining that he sneaked them into Mozambique after buying them from Zimbabwean soldiers.

Chikwere and hundreds of other border smugglers are part of a chain whose money flows back into Zimbabwe, whose president for three decades, Robert Mugabe, has ruled over four violent and disputed elections since 2000. Mugabe's policies of land seizure helped cause the economy, once the second-biggest in Southern Africa to shrink by 50 percent in eight years."

Mugabe will argue the facts of the above paragraph, alleging that 'illegal and economic sanctions' instituted by the West have caused the economy to collapse.

He also will state that the MDC has been financed and supported by the West - something which he says WikiLeaks have confirmed in their publications, and his party is now intent on prosecuting the Prime Minister - MDC leader, Morgan Tsvangirai - with treason.

"Revenue from the mines is serving to prop up Mugabe and his cronies," Porteus said in a Dec 8 response to emailed question. "there are real concerns that diamond revenue will be used to fund political violence and intimidation of Mugabe's opponents."

I seem to always come back to the fact that the illegal trade of diamonds seems to come from deep within Mugabe's own formations. Chikwere says his sourced the diamonds from soldiers.

Quite a while ago, a soldier in Zimbabwe was quoted as defending the illegal diamond trade by stating that it is pointless dying of thirst when you are standing in a river - or words to that effect.

This thinking is rampant throughout ZANU PF. starting at the very top.

"Mugabe's party, the Zimbabwe African National Union - Patriotic Front, or ZANU PF, denies the smuggling allegations.

"These are just inventions of the western imperialists who are trying to discredit ZANU PF," party spokesman Rugare Gumbo said in a Dec 6 interview from Harare, the country capital. "There is no corruption at Marange and ZANU PF is not using the proceeds."

If we were to believe every allegation that Mugabe and ZANU PF make that the West have a 'regime change' attitude towards Mugabe, then we would be turning a blind eye to almost everything the Mugabe and his henchmen perpetrate.

-o00o-

For a few years in the mid-90s, I worked in the transport game, but managed to avoid Rautenbach and his pro-Mugabe proclivities, although it must be borne in mind that these only really started post-2000.

"President Mugabe has, without explanation and under unclear circumstances, withdrawn 15 of his trucks from businessman Billy Rautenbach's SABOT transport company which are now running under the name Earth Core.

A senior driver within SABOT transport (who declined to be named) which is co-owned by President Robert Mugabe, and ZANU PF sponsor Billy Rautenbach said Mugabe was no longer interested in his fleet crossing the borders.

"I do not know much about how much share the President has in the company but what I can confirm is his recent withdrawal of 15 trucks from the fleet which is running under the trade name Earth Core. These vehicles are now operating locally and we are told he does not want his vehicles to cross the country's borders. President Mugabe still has some trucks which are trading under SABOT," he claimed."

Whatever the reason for the withdrawal, we must be careful not to read too much into what we don't know. perhaps Mugabe has a contract locally which he needed the truck for... like shifting diamonds...

-o00o-

Take care.

'debvhu

Tuesday, 28th December 2010

Howzit

It actually snowed for about thirty minutes yesterday, but it didn't settle. It rained overnight, washing any stubborn snowfall away and it remains very cold here in Derby. We have been warned that more snow will fall before any warmth returns.

Today, B and I have lived in our little bungalow for ten years.

-o00o-

Before WikiLeaks there was a very dodgy 'power-sharing' coalition. Now, with the information that has been made public, ZANU PF are intent on taking Morgan Tsvangirai to court on treason charges for conducting 'confidential' talks with American diplomats.

I envisage all manner of problems in any investigation, because firstly the talks and their content have to be proven. Then, the idea that Tsvangiarai was discussing something that is deemed treasonous has to be proved.

WikiLeaks have largely been laughed off as a simple 'he said, she said', but Mugabe and his band of merry men are intent on attempting to bring and end to Tasvangirai's political career.

"Zimbabwe is to investigate bringing treason charges against the minister, Morgan Tsvangirai, and other individuals over confidential talks with US diplomats revealed by WikiLeaks.

Johannes Tomana, the attorney general, said he would appoint a commission of five lawyers to examine whether recent disclosures in leaked US embassy cables amount to a breach of the constitution. A cable dated 24 December 2009 suggested Tsvangirai privately insisted sanctions 'must stay in place'."

Tomana, himself the subject of much argument within the coalition government following his unilateral appointment by Robert Mugabe, should actually consider looking at the acts and actions of Mugabe as much of his activities involved a transgression of the constitution.

As I have written recently, whilst in office, the President has the protection of the constitution, but if he has used that protection to enact illegalities, then surely he should be held accountable by the very constitution that gave him immunity?

"The WikiLeaks appear to show a treasonous collusion between local Zimbabweans and the aggressive international world, particularly the United States."

Obviously the pro-Mugabe crowd have already made up their minds on the WikiLeaks affair.

How sad that the Mugabe administration are more intent on nailing Tsvangirai and his senior officials rather than effecting real change in Zimbabwe and returning the country to a real democracy.

-o00o-

A prominent human rights lawyer has stated that any probe into the WikiLeaks release will have to probe ZANU PF in equal measure, and some of Mugabe's loyalists could find themselves in hot water.

Similar to the election report of 2002 (which I note South African President Jacob Zuma has failed to hand over to Trevor Ncube following a second Supreme Court ruling) and the Dumbuchena report of the Gukurahundi, the reports are then deemed too damaging to the sitting government and have been blocked for publication.

"Human Rights Kawyers have insisted that the proposed WikiLeaks Commission should be impartial and also target ZANU PF officials named in the secret US documents made public by the whistle-blower website.

"If there is a commission to look into WikiLeajs, it will have to investigate everything WikiLeaks has discussed, including officials from ZANU PF. It cannot be selective," human rights lawyer, Beatrice Mtetwa told a British newspaper."

Past history will show us that Mugabe and his minions are very selective with what information they have and what they investigate. And the failure to release report like the Dumbuchena is as selective as they come. If that report were to be published, then Mugabe's tenure at the top of the political tree in Zimbabwe would be very short lived.

-o00o-

Mugabe is intent on naming his successor and having him takeover without an election and he is now in the process of finalising much of the detail. To this end, he has taken delivery of a Presidential helicopter for Emmerson Mnangagwa, Mugabe's Defence Minister, more proof that he has made up his mind about the future.

If Mnangagwa is to take over from Mugabe, then why not wait until Mugabe stands down before expending money on yet another helicopter?

"Mugabe's heir apparent, Defence Minister, Emmerson Mnangagwa, in now travelling in a new multi0million dollar Russian made presidential helicopter, as the chairman of the notorious Joint Operations Command (JOC) prepares to takeover from the aging leader.

Sources at Defence House in Harare said Mugabe and JOC, which comprises top generals and other security chiefs, directed that Mnangagwa be given presidential treatment to go along with his status as the 'President in waiting'.

A senior defence official said a Russian made 20-seater MIA presidential helicopter which was initially meant for Mugabe, was now being used by Mnangagwa who is often seen flying to his base and stronghold in the Midlands province."

Reading this article, I cannot help but believe that this is a bunch of warlords preparing for war against the people.

Mugabe was not elected - well, not fairly, having had the people beaten, killed and incarcerated in 2008 forcing Tsvangirai to pull out of the second round - and Mnangagwa will not be elected either.

Probably the quietest coup in history.

"Mnangagwa is now using the new Russian presidential chopper after Mugabe refused to use it because of security concerns regarding Russian made planes. The AFZ was then forced to bust sanctions by using a third country from West Africa in order to acquire critical spare parts for the old Presidential helicopter which is now up and running after being grounded for several months," said the defence official."

Here's a question... When Zimbabwe managed to stop the mercenaries en route to Equatorial Guinea in Harare, the aircraft they were using was forfeit to the State. What happened to the aircraft? I would have thought that it would make sense to either add it to the national carrier fleet, or turn it into the Presidential aircraft - but I can almost guarantee that the plane is standing unused and being stripped for parts somewhere at Harare airport.

A complete and utter, Mugabe-esque waste.

-o00o-

With the breakdown of normal life in Zimbabwe, there are so many things that have not been maintained in the country, and paramount among them is the state of the roads.

Morgan Tsvangirai's wife, Susan was killed in a road traffic accident that was caused by the uneven road surface leading to a vehicle crossing the central white line and punting the vehicle she and her husband were travelling in off the road.

This Christmas period has been another time of carnage on the roads in Zimbabwe.

"Five people died, two of them on the spot, when two minibuses collided along the Mutare-Masvingo road yesterday morning, bringing the death toll on the country's roads this festive season to a staggering 43 inside 10 days.

Police spokesman, Andrew Phiri yesterday said one of the minibuses burst a tyre and encroached into oncoming traffic, causing the accident. Three other people died on admission to hospital."

Not the accident in question, but an idea of the carnage...

In a country where the money to buy the necessary tyres and spares for motor vehicle is very hard to come by, whilst the state of the roads is deteriorating daily, it is only a matter of time before the death toll on the roads becomes a serious factor to 'life' in Zimbabwe.

Just last week, we read of a traffic accident in Harare where the minibus involved was fleeing from police. I do realise that the police have a job to do, but when their actions result in the death of innocent passengers, then we have to question the methods used.

"Phiri said as at 9am, 595 accidents had been recorded since the monitoring of festive season accidents started on December 15.

The police arrested 159 people for drunken driving and impounded 2336 unroadworthy vehicles.

A total of 31711 traffic tickets had been issued out.

Harare had the bulk of the accidents, totalling 288, followed by Bulawayo with 79.

Midlands accounted for 63 while Masvingo and Matabeleland South had 37 each."

When the country has a flawed government, a coalition that is overwhelmingly ZANU PF even though they do not have the popular mandate, the essential work of maintenance of national highways falls in the priority levels.

And people die as a result.

And why should Mugabe care? It just means less people for him to worry about... not that he does.

-o00o-

Take care.

'debvhu

Monday, 27th December 2010

Howzit

And compliments of the season to you all...

Christmas was a very quiet affair in our household, but we did get out and visit family and also went to the club for a couple of hours.

B and I were exhausted after rearranging the lounge with the new furniture yesterday and slept late this morning, but the results of our labours seem to be well worth it!

Thanks to M & K for their much-needed help!

-o00o-

The situation in Zimbabwe is bad enough without another African leader praising Mugabe for his stand in retaining power in the country, despite losing the 2008 election. And I am a little bit surprised that there doesn't seem to be the support from other African leaders for the MDC to be allowed to assume the mantle of power as handed to them by the popular mandate.

Why bother to have elections if the results are to be ignored?

"Ivory Coast strongman Laurent Gbagbo warned West African leader Sunday that any attempt to oust him by force could ruin the regional economy and trigger a bloody war.

On Tuesday, three West African presidents will visit Abijan int a bid to convince the defiant 65-year-old leader to step down, a last-ditch plea that comes backed by a threat of regional military intervention.

Gbagbo said he took the threat 'seriously' but would never back down, and his lieutenants warned that any intervention could put the millions of West African migrants living in Ivory Coast in danger."

Gbagbo has a perfect template to follow - that of the 'revered' Zimbabwean leader, Robert Gabriel Mugabe. The Southern African regional is unable and reluctant to take any action against Mugabe who has effectively conducted a coup by remaining in office and having the entire democracy of the country turned on its head, leaving the party that won the election out in the cold.

"Several international leaders, including UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon, have warned Gbagbo's stubbornness could plunge Ivory Coast into civil war.

But Gbagbo's supporters turned the warning around, claiming instead that the threat of military action by the West African bloc ECOWAS poses a greater risk of mass civilian casualties and a regional conflagration.

Gbagbo said the West African move was the result of a Western plot directed by France and the United States, whose ambassadors he accuses of undermining Ivorian electoral procedures in order to propel Quttara into power.

"When you go through what I've been through, you tell yourself, 'Perhaps Mugabe wasn't completely wring after all,'" he said, referring to Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe, who clung to power after losing the election."

Using Mugabe's actions as a benchmark is entirely wrong. He has refused dialogue, embarked upon a bloody campaign to remain in office now and after the next election - and now his ego will be stoked by Gbagbo's comments and his intentions.

But why do African leaders insist on showing how spineless they are by quietly acquiescing Mugabe's moves to remain in power? The threat of civil war in Africa has now taken root in the South and West of the continent, and cannot be more than a single rifle shot away.

-o00o-

Mugabe's apparent conception of power being infectious in another part of Africa aside, it is apparent that the old man of Zimbabwe is tired and in need of a rest. He insists on making long, rambling speeches which make the most absurd allegations against the West and Morgan Tsvangirai, and yet in meetings, he has developed a habit of nodding off.

This backs my theory that he is nothing more than a figurehead for the military leaders in Zimbabwe, who are busy priming their forces to take power in any new election by force.

This is further backed up by the public utterances of Mugabe's senior henchmen who have stated that nothing less than a Mugabe win will be acceptable to ZANU PF...

"President Robert Mugabe is tired and must go now, says firebrand Finance Minister, Tendai Biti.

Biti, a lawyer, said he had a two hour meeting with President Mugabe and he had slept during most of it.

"I met with President Mugabe two weeks ago and he slept most of the time during the two and a half hour meeting," Biti told a rally in Kuwudzana."

More information that backs up the idea that Mugabe is little more than a figurehead for the Joint Operations Command (JOC) consisting of the military chiefs and intelligence network leaders.

Mugabe will be 87 in less than two months - yet seems to be propped up in the zeal for ZANU PF to maintain control over anything remotely governmental or security related in the country.

-o00o-

The diamond market in Zimbabwe has been a thorn in the flesh of the Zimbabwean people as ZANU PF have thrown people of the land to ensure that no unwanted persons reside within the fields, but it hasn't stopped the trade of illegal diamonds by both illegal miners and the Mugabe party.

A trader from Guinea was murdered recently in Zimbabwe and there was an attempt to hide the killing by placing the body on railway lines to be run over by rail traffic.

"A diamond dealer from the West African country of Guinea was murdered by two Zimbabwean men after they lured him from his base in Mozambique.

Laye Fode Kaba was recently strangled to death and robbed of US$14000 after being lured into Zimbabwe for a non-existent deal."

On the face of it, a despicable act, but really no worse than the actions perpetrated upon the population in the area who have been killed, imprisoned or harassed by Mugabe's army, police and CIO. The two accused may have a defence that would state that their actions are no worse than those of the armed forces - ordered by Mugabe and the JOC.

"The state also argued the release of the accused after the death of a foreigner on Zimbabwean soil would induce pandemonium and jeopardise the public confidence in the Zimbabwe criminal justice system."

What confidence does the public have in the judiciary? Cases are not investigated or prosecuted against the pro-Mugabe criminals, whilst those who support the MDC find themselves rushed through court and prosecuted for largely trumped up charges.

The Mugabe-ites have the rule of the roost, but their deception won't be long in revealing their bias to the people - if not already.

There can be no worse crime than murder, but before the judiciary can fairly enact the laws of the country, they need to clean their own doorstep first.

-o00o-

Mutambara is a waning star in Zimbabwe. Whatever he has to say will be duly noted and added to the fire that threatens to burn Zimbabwe to a crisp.

His comments may hold some water, but coming from someone who leads with such ineptitude, they mean nothing to anyone.

"Embattled Deputy Prime Minister Arthur Mutambara, who faces a possible revolt at his party's next congress, says the armed forces should act professionally, be non-partisan and serve the interests of all Zimbabweans amid reports some could have been deployed to rural areas ahead of pending election next year.

Mutambara warned soldiers not to be used as spent forces by politicians who view them as cannon fodder.

The DPM was responding to an inquiry by Chipinge East Member of Parliament Mathias Mlambo on why the government had deployed soldiers in different parts of the country including in his constituency."

We have read of the intended military 'operations' planned for the election period, including the chopping off of limbs and the beheading of people who vote against ZANU PF.

This is almost a return to the dark ages, and Mugabe is quite happy to stoke the fires to raise the 'anger' within his party and the more abrasive and rowdy members of the militia and war veterans.

Mutambara's comments will not change a thing, and people will recognise the 'warnings' for what they are - lip service.

Of course, Defence Minister Mnangagwa has denied that soldiers have been deployed around the country.

-o00o-

Take care.

'debvhu

Saturday, 25th December 2010

Howzit

Take care.

'debvhu

Friday, 24th December 2010

Howzit

Take care.

'debvhu

Thursday, 23rd December 2010

Howzit

-o00o-

Twelve years ago today - which was the coldest day of 1998 and the shortest day of that year - my wife and I arrived in the United Kingdom to live...

The last twelve years have not been easy and we have learned a lot about people and community - and, of course, the medical delivery system in England.

-o00o-

A couple of days ago I wrote an editorial for Instablogs and I see that it has disappeared. No reason has been given to me as to just why it was pulled, but I do see that it was linked by "The Zimbabwe Situation" and obviously that no longer works.

So, rather than fight with other people and servers, this is that editorial (if the font style and size is different from the rest of the posting, it is Blogger doing it's own their own thing.

“FREE & FAIR” ELECTIONS IMPOSSIBLE IN ZIMBABWE

Mugabe is not interested in democracy. Neither is he interested in leading the country as a duly elected President should. He is more intent on enforcing his tenure in the top office of the land, come hell or high water.

Mugabe has no care as to how many lives will be snuffed out with his mission to intimidate and oppress the public into ‘voting’ for ZANU PF.

Polling stations will be very busy with policemen and other ZANU PF ‘helpers’ ensuring that people vote for the rowdy, vicious and violent party.

So when Mugabe tells his adoring supporters that he and his party are preparing to bury the MDC for once and all, we expect nothing more than a repeat of the events that raged during the run up to the elections in 2008.

And I find the use of the expression 'bury' to be rather offensive, and deeply ominous.

"Zimbabwe's Robert Mugabe has said his party is ready to bury his Western-backed opposition 'forever' as there are warnings his forces are fanning out across the country in a bid to intimidate voters ahead of elections.

Speaking to thousands of delegates at the annual conference of his ZANU PF party in the eastern city of Mutare, the 86 year old president said he wanted to see general and presidential elections held as early as June next year."

Mugabe is incapable of participating in a 'free and fair' election in Zimbabwe. Since 1980, Mugabe has used violence, intimidation, threats and oppression to force his way into office.

And he sees nothing wrong in this practise.

"Sources say the Zimbabwe National Army is already conducting reconnaissance missions and has orders to carry out raids on the MDC-supporting villagers, supported by local ZANU PF cadres.

Rumours are also swirling about a planned "Operation Headless Chicken" to follow on from the 2008 "Operation Short Sleeves" which saw the limbs lopped off those opposing Mr Mugabe as a warning to other voters."

I have not read of any incident to back up the idea that limbs are being cut off, but Mugabe may be playing the game with his cards VERY close to his chest. It is possible.

The apparent intimidation and the putting in place of Mugabe’s forces of oppression does remind me of the events that led to the massacre and genocide in Rwanda and Burundi in the 1990s.

The people driven encyclopedia "Wikipedia" has the following to say about that bloody event:

“The Rwandan Genocide was the 1994 mass murder of an estimated 800,000 people. Over the course of approximately 100 days from the assassination of Juvénal Habyarimana on April 6 through mid-July, at least 800000 people were killed, according to a Human Rights Watch estimate. Other estimates of the death toll have ranged between 500000 and 1000000, or as much as 20% of the country's total population. It was the culmination, largely influenced by the Belgian colonization which favoured the Tutsi minority group because of their more "European" appearance, of longstanding ethnic competition and tensions between the minority Tutsi, who had controlled power for centuries, and the majority Hutu peoples, who had come to power in the rebellion of 1959-1962 and overthrown the Tutsi monarchy.”

Wikipedia goes on to state: “The killing was well organized by the government. When it started, the Rwandan militia numbered around 30000, or one militia member for every ten families. It was organized nationwide, with representatives in every neighbourhood. Some militia members were able to acquire AK47 assault rifles by completing requisition forms. Other weapons, such as grenades, required no paperwork and were widely distributed by the government. Many members of the Interahamwe and Impuzamugambi were armed only with machetes. Even after the 1993 peace agreement signed at Arusha, businessmen close to General Habyarimana imported 581000 machetes for Hutu use in killing Tutsi, because at the time, machetes were cheaper than guns.”

Mugabe has had a major problem with importing arms into Zimbabwe, and the use of violence as opposed to guns has become more and more prevalent. And let’s face it, the Mugabe administration doesn’t care how the end is achieved, as long as it is achieved.

Civil war is not far away in Zimbabwe.

Robb WJ Ellis
The Bearded Man"

-o00o-

I have a distinct interest in the activities of Mugabe police as a former member of that force, and I also take an interest when things happen in areas and towns in Zimbabwe that I have worked and lived in. I worked and lived in Chiredzi from late 1988 until late 1991 when I was transferred on promotion to Mutare.

I loved the Lowveld, with its very hot temperature, and it was in Chiredzi that I took up golf - a game that I loved, although I wasn't very good at it - the lowest handicap I played was a 12.... but I worked closely with the sugar companies, Hippo Vally, Triangle and Mkwasine - so when Mugabe decides to 'have a go' at the sugar companies, having forcibly taken many of the farms away from the white commercial sugar producers in the area, I take a long look at his intentions.

"President Robert Mugabe, who has of late been in a combative mood attacking the West left, right and centre for their alleged regime change agenda, has warned sugar conglomerates Hippo Valley and Triangle Limited that they will find themselves in soup if they deny black farmers an opportunity to produce sugarcane.

Speaking in Gutu on Tuesday, President Mugabe said he would not hesitate to unleash Lands and Rural Resettlement minister Herbert Murerwa and Masvingo Governor Tutis Maluleje to investigate the claims of improper conduct with a view to bringing to book those found wanting."

I ask how come Mugabe has not seen fit to have the killings of commercial farmers in the landgrab investigated? How come the killing of workers in the Lowveld have not been investigated?

Does Mugabe believe that because the invaders were acting in his name that their actions are excused?

And how does Mugabe believe that the conglomerates will deny the farmers the ability to grow sugarcane? The ZANU PF government put the farmers there, so inputs for their sugar production should come from that party...

"We left the sugarcane industry to Hippo Valley and Triangle to farm, hoping that blacks would also be farming. But we see they don't want blacks to far,. We are looking into the matter to find the truth," President Mugabe said.

"Murerwa will go to Chiredzi with Maluleke and investigate the claims and sort things out. Blacks and government should get 51% control and leave whites with 49 percent. If they are to come, they should be under us. Those who don't want, we leave them alone. This is not the time to work for them, but to be employers or to be employed by blacks."

Mugabe has obviously got his sights on Hippo and Triangle and the companies will probably be forcibly taken over, even though the indigenisation laws have been suspended as the ZANU PF think tanks endeavour to iron out a few problems.

And then there will be a serious sugar shortage, as, when ZANU PF take over, the companies will be asset stripped and their ability to do anything curtailed to virtually nothing, And, when the sugar shortage does happen, it will be blamed upon the whites...

-o00o-

"The US Treasury Department imposed sanctions on Tuesday against Zimbabwe's attorney general, Johannes, saying his actions undermined the country's democratic institutions.

"(His) targeting of selected political opponents threatens the rule of law in Zimbabwe, harms the integrity of the government... and counters the will of Zimbabwean people who have expressed their desire to build a democratic society," said Adam Szubin, Director of Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control."

The obvious comment is that Tomana was appointed unilaterally with consultation with either Tsvangirai or Mutambara, but Mugabe is determined that he will remain in office for the balance of his tenure, and, if Mugabe has his own way, be re-appointed again.

Not only was his appointment unconstitutional, but Mugabe's judicial sector sees nothing wrong with the attempt that Tomana made in introducing false evidence in the Roy Bennett trial which Tomana appeared for the State.

Had this been attempted by anyone else, they would now be resident inmates at Chikurubi High Security Prison just outside Harare on the Arcturus Road.

"Treasury said Tomana, appointed by Mugabe, "has selectively prosecuted political opponents and their perceived supporters in an effort to undermine Zimbabwe's democratic processes and institutions."

Before ZANU PF there was a democracy. Before Mugabe started changing anything, the will of the people was observed and respected. That was then - this is now...

-o00o-

There was a WikiLeaks article published today that details discussions between Mugabe and a US congressman. In the summary there is emphasis placed on Mugabe's mental attitude and his alertness.

Given that he is nearer 90 than 80, I suppose cognisance must be given to his state of mind, but I am not convinced that Mugabe is the statesman that everyone seems to think he is.

"On May 30 president Robert Mugabe received Congressman Donald Payne (D-NJ), Ambassador McGee, and staffer at his State House office for a nearly three-hour-long meeting. Throughout the marathon meeting Mugabe was alert, articulate, in apparent good health, and defiant. Congressman Payne gently and masterfully praised Mugabe for his liberation credentials before confronting him about human rights abuses. Mugabe neither confirmed nor denied the abuses."

Not the reaction we would expect from an innocent person - but Mugabe is an academic and he has the ability to play the game in multiple levels, giving away nothing, but gleaning much from the other participant in discussion.

I had the huge misfortune of meeting Mugabe on a one-to-one basis when I was in the police, and I felt dirtied by the experience. I think it was this sort of event that convinced me that my tenure in uniform was limited.

"Despite his defiance, Mugabe articulated his deep desire for acceptance into the international community again, although he did not offer to make any concessions or policy revisions that would lead to Zimbabwe's full reintegration in the community of nations."

Mugabe gives nothing, and takes as much as possible.

-o00o-

Take care.

'debvhu

Wednesday, 22nd December 2010

Howzit

-o00o-

As we head into the home straight for Christmas, I do note that news on Zimbabwe is a little thin on the ground. Not that I am worried - especially today, as B and I are expecting some new lounge furniture and to put it in place, I will have to rework the entire internet connection and the sound system.

There is no rest for the wicked.

And it snowed again overnight.

-o00o-

Mugabe will say anything for appearances sake.

"Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe on Tuesday called for peace ahead of the planned 2011 elections in that country. The surprise statement came just two days after he waned opponents that they might be crushed in the upcoming elections.

He was delivering the end of the year statement on power-sharing government.

Flanked by Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai and Deputy Prime Minister Arthur Mutambara, Mugabe called on reporters at State House to help bring peace to Zimbabwe. During the last elections in 2008, his supporters violently crushed opponents.

Mugabe also appeared to have agreed to the new constitution ahead of polls, despite previously threatening tp proceed with elections without a new constitution."

When Mugabe appears with Tsvangirai/Mutambara, he always seems to be friendly, jovial and quite understanding of the situation on the ground - only to come out with some serious threats and promises of violence when he is back in the company of his vicious party.

Much of what he says has to be taken with a dose of salt.

-o00o-

An this article from SW Radio Africa tends to agree with my sentiments...

"A few days after vowing his ZANU PF party would 'crush' the MDC at the next election Robert Mugabe exchanged kind words with Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai, at an end of year press conference at State House. The function was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister Arthur Mutambara.

Over the weekend Mugabe told his annual ZANU PF party conference that he was not happy with the coalition government and wanted a fresh election. He also said that the MDC would finally be 'crushed'. But on Monday the 86 year old was singing a different tune, claiming the coalition is making progress and had given people 'a sense of togetherness' despite the partners being 'at each other's throats'."

I cannot fathom Mugabe. We are aware that he has a habit of changing colour to match his environment, rather like a chameleon, but here he is showing the absolute duplicity of his political being.

He encourages his ZANU PF to whip the MDC, to take them on toe to toe, and then appears in public rubbing shoulders with the very person he despises, laughing and joking with Tsvangirai and being all cordial.

"Tsvangirai returned the pleasantries by saying, "We have made gains in economic reform and public services," before blaming a shortage of money and resources for preventing them from achieving more. "This inclusive government will not collapse. We will make sure that it does not collapse," he said. Strangely, Tsvangirai also said he had 'camaraderie' with Mugabe, a contradiction of his outburst in October when he accused Mugabe of betraying him."

-o00o-

"Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe said the coalition government with Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai is working even though the two sides criticise each other.

"Let is not be said that we're dysfunctional," Mugabe told reporters in the capital, Harare, today. "We started off as parties that were disparate, which fought each other and has grievances against each other and wanted to settle scores. Now as Zimbabweans, we have no option but to work together."

With Mugabe continuing to work unilaterally to the coalition, we have to believe what we see, not what we hear...

-o00o-

"Ten people including a mother clutching a baby died here on Tuesday in one of the worst road carnage which can be blamed squarely on the Zimbabwe Republic Police as the commuter omnibus rammed a truck while running away from the police along Simon Mazorodze Road.

The Glen View commuter omnibus was bound for the city when it was chased by the police resulting in the crash.

Among the deceased was a mother clutching her baby in her hands. The baby survived the horror crash."

When I was in the police I often attended road crashes, and I think the worst I ever attended was an army heavy personnel carrier - called a Puma - which flipped on a dirt bridge South of Mballaballa which killed about twenty youngsters who were being transported for screening about alleged dissident presence in the area.

A vehicle filled with people is very unforgiving in an accident and the youngsters were ripped to pieces when the accident happened.

The accident was so horrific, I wrote about it in my book, "Without Honour".

"Commuter omnibus passengers blamed the police for the accident as most police officers were demanding bribes leading to the cat and mouse game."

-o00o-

Take care.

'debvhu