"The political and economic crises in Zimbabwe are worsening at an alarming rate. The policies, corruption and repressive governance of President Robert Mugabe and his ruling ZANU-PF party are directly responsible for the severe economic slide, growing public discontent and international isolation of the country. In April 2006, inflation officially topped 1,000 per cent, helped by the decision to print $230 million worth of Zimbabwean currency to pay international debts and sustain operations. Unemployment is over 85 per cent, poverty over 90 per cent, and foreign reserves are almost depleted. Over four million persons are in desperate need of food. HIV/AIDS and malnutrition kill thousands every month. The government-sponsored 2005 “Operation Murambatsvina” to clear urban slums forcibly deprived more than 18 per cent of the population of homes or livelihoods and badly damaged the informal sector, the lifeline for many urban poor."http://www.crisisgroup.org/home/index.cfm?id=1233&l=1&gclid=CL-QjebgvYwCFQQ4TQodIXEvVw
I visited friends in Zimbabwe in 1991 and found it to be a success story for Africa. My friends warned me to not be too optimistic. Robert Mugabe was in charge of the country then and he still is today. I was told to watch and keep up with the goings on in the country, because it would change for the worse- those friends were right!
How has Robert Mugabe managed to stay in power since 1980? He led the fight against the white dominated government of Rhodesia and helped establish Zimbabwe and black rule. Since that point however, his human rights record has been on a continuous slide downwards. His condemnation of the gay community, his "land reforms", and his zero tolerance of any opposition in the country has led to a country in crisis.
I visited friends in Zimbabwe in 1991 and found it to be a success story for Africa. My friends warned me to not be too optimistic. Robert Mugabe was in charge of the country then and he still is today. I was told to watch and keep up with the goings on in the country, because it would change for the worse- those friends were right!
How has Robert Mugabe managed to stay in power since 1980? He led the fight against the white dominated government of Rhodesia and helped establish Zimbabwe and black rule. Since that point however, his human rights record has been on a continuous slide downwards. His condemnation of the gay community, his "land reforms", and his zero tolerance of any opposition in the country has led to a country in crisis.
2 comments:
I grew up in South Africa in the 70's, Rhodesia was one of the most beautiful countries I ever visited.
The situation is heartbreaking.
The only reason Robert Mugabe remains is because of the inability of the rest of Africa to be critical of him and force change.
There is still a huge reluctance in Africa's leaders to admit when one of fellow "statesmen" turns into a total despot.
South Africa is a prime example of this and should hang its head in shame, they have the most power to assist.
Colin, London
Thanks for your comments Colin.
Mugabe has had little concern with the pressure put on him by the west; the point needs to be brought to him by other African leaders.
When I visited Zimbabwe, my friend's mother told me I wasn't allowed to stay too long with them, because if I did, I would never want to leave Africa. That comment has remained with me to this day, and as you stated, it is "heartbreaking" to see where such a beautiful country is today! Terry
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