Just a few words, but what difference will they make? Last night Former South African President Nelson Mandela used a London dinner marking his 90th birthday to criticise Robert Mugabe’s regime he spoke of the “tragic failure of leadership in our neighbouring Zimbabwe.”
It’s what many people in Zimbabwe have been calling for since the disputed presidential elections last month. Did Nelson Mandela go far enough, is this a defining moment for Zimbabwe, or too little too late ?
What power does Mandela now wield, is he still the leader of Africa? Or a 90 year old man who’s had his time? What effect have his words had in Africa, is it hardening opinion or making Mugabe supporters question their views?
Is this a decisive moment, or will nothing change? Did Mandela bow to western pressure?
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The old man did not bow to any pressure from any where. As to whether his criticism will have impact remains to be seen. Mandela can’t do more than what if has done. This man should be left alone to live the last years of his life in peace.
I don’t think it will make any difference. Mugabe has stated that only god can remove him from office. His supporters chant “Win or War!” Things are already wretched inside the country and sanctions will only allow Mugabe to blame the colonial powers he has based his career on opposing.
I think Mugabe is right. Only god, ie a natural or unnatural death, will remove him from power. I don’t see the African Union taking military action.
Well, only time will tell. I can’t imagine his words will have much of an effect though. It’s like Jean Chrétien saying he opposes the war in Iraq. Actually, it’s like a prime minister from 20 years ago saying they don’t support the war in Iraq. A former politician from another country has very little political power. I’m happy he still finds the time to do something he believes in, but I don’t see how it could have an effect over the situation in Zimbabwe.
Mandela spoke his own mind – he wasn’t pressured to state the obvious –
but his words will have no effect. Mugabe truly doesn’t care what the rest of the world thinks.
I do not think Mugabe will listen to anyone at this point in time, other than the Brittish Government.
If people listen carefully, they will hear that the man is so mad with the Brittish that they are the only people whom he is willing to talk to. Its sad, but the only solution right now if for the Brittish government reps to come down to Zimbabwe, agree to sit down and talk to Mugabe, and come up with a way forward.
As long as the Brittish continue the media posturing and say things about him, he will maintain his hard line stance. In as far as he is concnerned, he wants to prove the Brittish worng about land, and as long as the Brittish continue to argue on this, Mugabe will not relent.
I know the Brittish are too proud to admit this, but this is the unfortunate situation. Forget Mandela or any other African leader, Mugabe will not listen to them.
Mugabe is power hungry and believes he has was appointed by God. What Mandela thinks of him, or makes public proclamations of will have no impact. There are things I would like to see happen, among them include his henchmen turning against him.
Hello WHYSers
I disagree with most of these posts in that I believe Nelson Mandela has perhaps more prestige and credibility than almost any man alive ( maybe along with the Dalai Llama ). So what he says really does matter. The rest of Africa will have to listen to him.
It is funny how things work internationally – I think that things plod along and then, somwhere, thre comes a ‘tipping point’, when world opinion is completely different from what it was. It can happen almost imperceptibly. Maybe we are at that point now ie when the world agrees ‘there is nowhere to run – just get out’. I hope so.
If some would think that Mandella has no effect on what is happening in Mugabe’s regime then none would make any comment. Of course it matters what he says. A bit little, a bit late, but it matters.
Des Currie
@gabriel, i sympathize with your country, situation. I would like to if Mugabe doesn’t to common sense to know that it is not the British who are suffering from his senseless “RETRIBUTION” but rather innocent Zimbabweans? Gabriel sorry, but this is just a part of dictators and Mugabe is no different.
Finally the old man has spoken! I waited so long for him to do so. But, he took too long. This means that his words will not have the kind of impact it would have had if it came much earlier. Kudos to him though for speaking his mind and for speaking for a majority of Africans who feel that what is happening in Zimbabwe is a big shame to Africa.
@ Mohammed
Agree TOTALLY.
Mr Tilley. the issue is not whether Mandela spoke so much or so little. The issue is that a fellow country is on the Brink of complete collapse and the world and indeed Africa should by this hour be speaking with a single voice. What we are seeing, as of this minute does not appear to be the best. One side of the world is speaking of Negotiation and one side prefers Military Intervention. Other Governments like my Nigeria (who probably feel like ‘saints’) are keeping MUTE on this matter.
I would have preferred if the AU was more vocal, as of this second and if there was a Peace Keeping force ALREADY on Standby to enter Zimbabwe at the ‘right’ time
Mandela is a Hero in his own capacity and has lead Africa gallantly (far better than Mbeki) for many years. The man has a number of years more to spend in this world and we should take ALL that he can say and do as the BEST that can be done at his level. He could have done more if he had the power to ( I can bet you).
At this point in zimbabwe, robert mugabe is not ready to listen any one
he has his mind made up. only concrete action would make him listen to anyone sad to say including nelson mandela. talk shows will not bring peace to the people of zimbabwe.
The people of Zimbabwe should be foresighted and realise that its time for them to live in a democratic
place on earth.
If honorary granted to your own incumbant president mugabe is being withdrawn, then what is your fate?
To continue supporting such a fellow who is degrading your lovely country?
Children are being born day and night but there is lack of medical services because this mugabe. Aid workers perhaps are hiding in their houses for fear of violence.
Nobody even knows the fate of the judicial system now as well as the position of the electoral commission.
They could be staffing and ticking ballot papers now!
Mandela’s condemination of Mugabe has come at the right time given that he has history of understanding African leaders and his long time struggle.
Mandela rule only for one term and left without critism. Can Mugabe bring back the lives of those lost during his time. Ask for Armnesty Mugabe
I doubt Mandela’s words will have any real impact directly on Mugabe but, on the other hand, he still carries enough influence that he might bring other regional leaders “off the fence”. If he achieves this, Mandela’s speech may well become the “tipping point” steve b mentions.
“Did Mandela bow to western pressure?”
What western pressure?! I think Mandela, as an intelligent person, could not keep silent any more because of his own disappointment with a fellow African and freedom fighter, not because of western pressure.
Zimbabwe doesn’t have anything of interest to the ‘west’ other than as an example to perhaps Zambia and South Africa as to ‘what can go badly wrong’ when colonialism is really wiped out.
“Is this a decisive moment, or will nothing change?”
Well if a few words by the old and venerable man can create a “decisive moment”, someone should have told him earlier.
The reasons why South Africa in particular, never mind the west, has just sat back and watch the place rot might well have something to do with the South African banking system having a large (an declared) eye on eventually taking over what is left of Zimbabwe. Like any sensible property developer, better to wait for the old house to just fall down and hen move in to develop the empty plot, rather than going to all the (relatively) unprofitable trouble to renovate the existing Grade 2 listed wreck.
George w. Bush should be told they have a weapon of mass destruction, it’s called a Mugabe. Shame about the oil though. They ain’t got none!
Malc Dow
Off course, when Mandela speaks it does matter and will make differences. But it is too late, Because Timing is everything in Politics. At this point of time Mugabe doesn’t want to hear anyone. He is always seen as a power thrust.
Unfortunately Mandela is just one lone credible voice crying for change in the wilderness of corrupt and inept leaders on the continent. For his voice to get Mugabe’s attention, we will surely need 1,000 other Mandelas which is a rarity on the continent.
Imagine if you were a Nobel PEACE recipient–what you propose will always be limited to peaceful solutions, afterall, that’s your legacy and you don’t want to destroy that. So how is Mandela’s lofty pronouncements going to pack the punch?
Because in the real world that has to deal with rogue states, states who only understand power, non-peaceful choices must always be on the table, second-guessing those holding the cards. Carry a big stick, just try not to use it–too often.
Mandela has a global image of saintliness, similar to the late Mother Theresa. But he installed the useless and patrician Thabo Mbeki as his successor, who is corrupt and has done nothing for South Africa’s large underclass (but the whites and the West love Mbeki). His comments on Mugabe are too little and too late. And the West’s imbecility in dealing with Mugabe (who is a very clever operator) is breathtaking and is only matched by the brazen behaviour of Anglo American in announcing 25 June 2008 their new platinum mine investment in Zimbabwe. So who is running British foreign policy? – it is certainly not Gordon Brown, David Milliband or any of the politicians – the mandarins and the intelligence services are more than firmly in control, hand in glove with British and Global commercial interests. Mr Alex Weir, Harare and London.
Hi Chloe
Akbar here in Tehran
We have so many problems of our own such as the ban on the Syndicate of Iranian Journalists, further EU sanctions, – financial restrictions on Bank Melli of Iran, our Central Bank etc.., that it is hard to focus on anything else.
We now have petrol rationing, a novelty for a nation which holds one of the world’s greatest oil and gas reserves. We have set aside US $9 billion for gasoline imports and various other oil derivatives for next year.
We have had comments on the rising power of shia clerics in Iraq on the blog, but we are talking of getting rid of them altogether. Who says miracles don’t happen!
To cap it all, our great allies Syria and Hamas cronies are in peace talks with Israel. Good for Israel, but it does leave us in Coventry.
To cap it all, that most elegant of American ladies Condoleeza Rice is looking for accomodation here in Tehran to set up a US Interst Section. Do you think she’s serious?
By the way, there seems to be a wall of silence in Africa when you ask for comments on what is happening in Zimbabwe! Don’t blame them: It is the same in Mali, Sudan, Guinea or Somali, they see it coming, and they are right. They will be getting the same medicine sooner or later,
I owe you an apology, probably several.
God bless.
Mandela’s too late in speaking against Mugabe’s tyranny. Only God or an assassin’s bullet (not my option) will stop Mugabe’s ambitions. He’s sadly proof that African leaders can be worse oppressors than our colonial masters.
I don’t think that even Mandala can change Mugabe – Mugabe is a megalomaniac, there is nothing now that can be done other than Mugabe having a fatal slip in the bath…or something like that.
I think Will has it right. Regardless of what the people outside of Zimbabwe have to say it won’t make a difference.
Hi World Have Your Sayers
The tide against Mugabe was turned a long time ago. The problem why he is still in power is because the common conscientious Zimbabweans and other godfearing people worldwide are powerless to effect the necessary change.
Mugabe in power serves the purposes of tracist who believe “nothing black nuh good”. His continued despotism serves their purposes of psychological warfare well, because some simple minded ones will start to wonder why Africans don’t removed him from power as if it was a simple matter to remove a sovereign government. Foreign powers are right to be cautious about going to war especially in ight of the debacle that is Iraq.
What about the multinationals? Are they benefiting from Mugabe? Things are usually not as simple as they seem. World events are much more complex and complicated than they seem. Who is really rock Mugabe’s cradle (as in she who rocks the cradle rules the world).
And finally what is Mugabe’s consuming ideology- communism, catholicism, nationalism, atheism? What’s his ideology. Some people are saying this man is mad. I don’t agree. It is obvious that some force or ideology is driving this man. No one behave the way Mugabe does without been deeply convicted about what he is doing.
It is obvious to all expect Mugabe and his backers that whatever ideology drives him, he is misguided. He is delusional and dangerous. A menace to Zimbabwe and the world. He should be removed forthwith. But by whom? Mugabe will not leave voluntarily.
Carlos, Kingston-Jamaica.
Too late, and lets be reasonable it wouldn’t have mattered anyways. Mugabe isn’t a different person now than he has been in the last year… he’s just become desperate enough to show his true colors above and beyond all his previous evils. Whether confronted now or 6 months ago, his reaction would have still been the same.
re-post from other thread:
We shouldn’t have made to pester Nelson Mandela.
Having said that, nothing more could have made my day than to see him speak out against Mugabe.
NO. Mr. Mandela’s reference to the social strife and un-brotherly conduct by South Africans created by bottled anger against the British colonialists, and the unemployment that reminded them of that evil era in South Africa, and the political strife in Zimbabwe, over land and G.M.Foods issues, created by the British and USA governments, who obviously want Mugabe out as president and Trvangirai in, are very much beneath the wisdom, dignity and honour that I have held him in, because they are contrary to the problem and dispute management traditions among African, and they were made without due regard to their causes, in the wrong place, at the wrong time, and for the wrong reason.
Here are two Nigerian proverbs to buttress and underline my point and defand my assertion. Ndi Igbo say: Okenye anaro ano na uno ewu amuo na ogbu; while awon omo kaaro se o ji ire say: agba kii wa ni oja ki ori omotuntun wo. These mean, Igbo people say: An elderly person should not be at home and a goat gives birth while it is tethered; while Yoruba people say: An elderly person should not be in the market and the head of a child tilts.
Let the wise understand that contextual meaning.
Prince Awele Odor
Lagos, Nigeria
maybe it did help….
Zimbabwe’s Mugabe: Open to talks with opposition
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080626/ap_on_re_af/zimbabwe
We all love and respect Mandela but unfortunately his statement will have little or no effect, just as the statements by current african heads of state are having no effect. The only people who can oust mugabe are the zimbabwean peple themselves (which would involve more bloodshed) or the cabal that surrounds Mr Mugabe and at the moment neither seem likely.
NO. Mr. Mandela’s reference to the social strife and un-brotherly conduct by South Africans created by bottled anger against the British colonialists, and the unemployment that reminded them of that evil era in South Africa, and the political strife in Zimbabwe, over land and G.M.Foods issues, created by the British and USA governments, who obviously want Mugabe out as president and Trvangirai in, are very much beneath the wisdom, dignity and honour that I have held him in, because they are contrary to the problem and dispute management traditions among African, and they were made without due regard to their causes, in the wrong place, at the wrong time, and for the wrong reason.
Here are two Nigerian proverbs to buttress and underline my point and defand my assertion. Ndi Igbo say: Okenye anaro ano na uno ewu amuo na ogbu; while awon omo kaaro se o ji ire say: agba kii wa ni oja ki ori omotuntun wo. These mean, Igbo people say: An elderly person should not be at home and a goat gives birth while it is tethered; while Yoruba people say: An elderly person should not be in the market and the head of a child tilts.
Let the wise understand that contextual meaning.
Prince A
Lagos, Nigeria
Mandela has a global image of saintliness, similar to the late Mother Theresa. But he installed the useless and patrician Thabo Mbeki as his successor, who is corrupt and has done nothing for South Africa’s large underclass (but the whites and the West love Mbeki). His comments on Mugabe are too little and too late. And the West’s imbecility in dealing with Mugabe (who is a very clever operator) is breathtaking and is only matched by the brazen behaviour of Anglo American in announcing 25 June 2008 their new platinum mine investment in Zimbabwe. So who is running British foreign policy? – it is certainly not Gordon Brown, David Milliband or any of the politicians – the mandarins and the intelligence services are more than firmly in control, hand in glove with British and Global commercial interests. Mr Alex W, Harare and London.
hello,
still mandela is the best bet in africa among african nations. No other leader has his clout, and involving mandela in zimbawe earlier would have resolved the mugabe issue in a better way much earlier.
devadas.v
Dear Africa, my fellow Africans and all WHYS listeners.
Mugabe and Mandela should be out of the Zimbabwe saga. What if our Papa Africa Madiba dies, what will we do? Are we going to bow to Mandela for everything – it is high time Africa should grow maturely and solve its own problems without looking forward to our only remaining ancestor, Nelson Madiba Mandela.
I don’t think Mandela has turned the tide against Mugabe but it is the question of integrity on the part of the Zimbabwe regime. Mugabe has failed his nation and he has painted a bad precedence on the African continent. It wont be long, we will see other african leaders following into the footsteps of comrade Robert Gabriel Mugabe. Maybe its because of the “GABRIELISM” that has run out of the heart of Mugabe. Why can he act so barbalically against his own people that he once loved, cared and shared the little that he had in the late 70s upto early 80s and 90s. Can the african continent pray for Mugabe so that the demons that has possessed him should go out of him and his fellow ZANU-PF cadres.
What power does Mandela now wield, is he still the leader of Africa? No doubt about your question WHYS anchors and editors and producers and listeners about the power of Mandela on the African continent – he still is the man of the people. Or a 90 year old man who’s had his time? Mandela has not had his time like other greedy African leaders – Mandela is a man who would always like to share the little that he has in his possession. What effect have his words had in Africa, is it hardening opinion or making Mugabe supporters question their views? whther his words did not carry any effect but it is the question of communicating those words to the relevant authorities and not just mere media houses. I am telling you those words have been moved right into the heart and mind of Mugabe.
Viva la Mandela, enjoy your 90s birthday and may the Good Lord bless you and take care of you so that you should see the day when the current Zim regime is topped by the Zim vote.
Chawezi P
It seems Mugabe has lost touch with reality. As he considers himself as appointed by God, he no longer cares about what people on Earth think of him, including his long time friends like Nelson Mandela and the president of Angola. Perhaps, he is still waiting for a divine power to deliver his country from the current crisis.
Mugabe sees no one worth having any moral authority on him. It’s not unlikely that he will vent his anger on Mandela by describing as stooge of the West, particularly, the UK where Mandela celebrated his 90th birthday and where the queen stripped Mugabe of his knighthood.
Perhaps it took long for Mandela to be outspoken against Mugabe, because from his experience he knew he wasn’t the kind of man that can step down for the stability of his country but can only sticks to power to fight his countrymen after ending his fight against the white rulers.
If the whole international community can’t figure out a solution to Zimbabwe’s current problems, Mugabe will continue to govern his country until God removes him from office, of course by death. As long as he is alive cherishing international incapacity to deal with him, Zimbabwe should brace itself for other years of acute hardship.
Yes, mandela wields some power in Africa infact he is a legend, to be remembered by many both in Africa and abroad.
There is a saying that goes by * Every devil has its own followers* Mugabe is a devil in his own making that has its own followers,
too Nelson Mandela is an *Angel with his own followers*
Zimbabweans who feel to heed by Mandela or can follow this *ANGEL* so to say can as well conteplate his words, emulate them and
Bring them to practise.
However, for those of my friends in Zimbabwe who need to follow the Devil can as well do, but well they should be aware that, devils leads us to death and suffering.
The ball is in their cort, they decide to follow the words of the wise man or zimbabwe be buried in the war cementry.
We are all hoping that Mugabe will take the hint, but it seems it may take stronger persuasion. It is sad that the folks are starving and the Tsvangari supporters do not have the strength or provisions to rebel.
John S USA
Mr. Mandela’s time continues – he isn’t dead yet. His comments however, while welcome, will not ameliorate Mr. Robert Mugabe actions. I don’t think Mr. Robert is currently listening to anyone.
g
Yes, there was a lot to overturn in post-apartheid South Africa, but Mandela did promise a great deal to the electorate, to his people. He did not deliver on that fully as with all politicians, past and present. His notoriety stands him in high regard but do his achievements whilst leader at home justify that?
Andrew
Australia
The polls in Zimbabwe should be a concern for all Africans. Britain And America are doing like a Leopard by scaring the young ones so that those that run way are cursed. But why scared? They like people who say yes, yes. If we had twenty Mugabes,Africa wouldn’t be like this. Am Kabogi A in Kirihura Uganda
WHYS is on, have to go listen. Whatever Nelson Mandela has to say is important and when and where he says it, is up to him.
Thank you Prince A for your proverbs. My favorite of all (that I can remember) is One does not test the depth of a river with both feet.
What happens now, tomorrow? Que sera, sera.
Virginia in Oregon
No matter what sanctions we impose on mugabe he wont listen therefore he should be given street justice by the people of Zim
Your guest had to bring up the US. If you recall, the US got criticized for Iraq, but apparently wants the US to remove Mugabe. However if we do it, we are imperialistic. If we don’t, then we are doing nothing, then there will be some accusation about oil. Also, the US didn’t’ execute Saddam Hussein. The Iraqi government did.
Steve
USA
The international community should not legitimise the elections coz of violence against opposition party members : Andrew in Harare.
Words, words, words and more words. All these so-called “leaders”, pundits, special interest group members and intellectuals do is talk while taking no action. One can understand them very well, taking action is much more difficult than sitting in a foreign embassy or an air-conditioned office thousands of miles away, endlessly declamating, criticizing and blowing hot air.
But one should not expect anything more from them or express outrage at their inaction. They are all cowards and that bafoon Morgan Tsvangirai is the greatest demamgogue of them all. After shamelessly abandoning his supporters to Mugabe’s forces, he has no right to leadership of any kind. What kind of president will he be if he cannot stand up to his opponent? Zimbabwe deserves better, and I believe Mandella first and foremost meant Tsvangirai when he spoke of the failure of leadership in the country.
We need internationally supervised elections because Mugabe & the Electoral Commision are one thing.
Pls BBC you re making me sick with unusual coverage of zimbabwe
Leave Mandela out this let the old oldman enjoy the rest of his life in peace.
Nelson Mandela is still an important person and his opinion has influence. Although, his opinion does matter and has credibility, I’m not sure if it will do much for Zimbabwe because Mandela doesn’t have political authority.
all the african leaders would do the same thing as mugabe if given the chance in the same circumstances. ryan
I would love to have the same passion as the man who is defending Mugabe. So would the people who had their fingers cut off by the thugs under his rule.
I would also suggest that Mugabe is being manipulated by the military. I would also suggest that bad governance is not a west orientated concept-the simple fact is that Mugabe got viscious with land when he was rejected by his people over the referendum- and that was the beginning of the downfall of the economy of ZImbabwe. Land should be more equably shared- of course- but when you give it to cronies without farming experience, then you have become a man who has been a tragically inept leader. I am a zimbabwean- and I feel strongly that our country is in need of good governance- not bloodshed.
Rory
Mr Mugabe, mind u, u have lot 2answer when office left u, been a liberator does not mean over staying more than ur wellcome, u will reap what u sowed. Idriss A in Ghana,
At last Mandela made a likkle speech,When he was in power what did he do for the South Africans? not much,he was a figurehead,mascot and totem that’s all.The ANC has failed to address the needs of ordinary South Africans,how can they lecture Zimbabweans about anything?
we didn’t heard Mandela speaking bout the african refugees killed in south africa.
it looks like while he was partying for his birthday the british were insisting to asnwer questions like this. inorder to use his respected name.
africans : MALAWIANS,ZIMBAWEANS,SOMALIS ZAMBIANS etc,
took part in the 70’s and 80’s the liberations of their brothers of south africa from the apartheid regime. but south africa africans bited the hands that feeded them.
SOUTH-AFRICA IS STILL ECONOMICALLY & SOCIALLY UNDER THE APATHIED REGIME; BOB MUGABE IS A BETTER LEADER THAN NELSON MANDELA! _Ras R (Accra)
Mandela, you lost this one, enjoy your birthday and come back to Africa. Hope from Nigeria.
It’s better Africans continue living postively with their problems since it’s the Donor countries funding their stay in power EJALU SIMON K
Mugabe is an african disgrace. The AU is a club of despots with no feeling for the people they purport to rule. Shame. Nokaro in Lagos
Mugabe is a tyrant, dictator, shameless and heartless president. Mugabe, your attitude indicates that your end is near. Irvine B.MAHOLO IN MONROVIA.
Mugabe is out of control. His future is in the hands of the strong men who surround them… so is Zimbabwe’s future. Those men who surround him control him. Their future wealth is dependent on keeping Mugabe in charge.
The pan africanist chap is too hysterical. The zim situation is bad. Rick lusaka
There must be some rare formula in the Zimbwean politics. Why have most African leaders delayed their criticism? Let’s also see the other side of the coin. Lokol paul (karamoja – Uganda).
Zimbabweans are being held hostage by a senile old man.He will soon run out of gas and time. Mustapha, S Nigeria
If all african leaders will stand tall against imperialism as mogabe then african will be the shining star of the world. Mogan is an agent of the west and he does not deserve to rule in africa. Rezah, ghana.
Hitler and Idi Amin played nationalist card. Mugabe is doing the same. We are have a madman here. My name is Chansa Zambia.
I think President Mugabe lives in a world of his own. Mandela’s comments will just fall on a Deaf Ear.
I am amused by the fact that people actually support mugabe in his fight against “Phantom” Colonialists, and western Agents. Very Amusing.
“I am amused by the fact that people actually support mugabe in his fight against “Phantom” Colonialists, and western Agents. Very Amusing.”
I absolutely agree, that’s all it comes down to with vast majority of Africans and especially their leaders. They are not the cause of the problems they are experiencing, it is the West! They are starving because of the West, dying because of the West etc! All because of this vast Euro-American conspiracy against Africa. It’s not like billions of dollars in aid are being sent to them every year by the very same people whom they accuse of wrongdoing.
Africa needs to grow up and take responcibility for its on destiny. To do this, they need to stop falling under the power of the likes of Mugabe and Tsvangirai, demagogues who have no concrete ideas but talk about the need for africa to “rise up” and call for “action”.
After they’ve displaced them and elect real leaders who will actually construct a viable government, they should send them over to America. Demogogues like that seem to enjoy a lot of success among the Democrats over there.
Hi guys,
The oldman hasn’t turned the tide against mugabe. The tide was turned long ago by the ZANU-PF itself
but the whole world of US and Britain would have nothing to do with it because ZANU-PF was talking about changing mugabe but to continue with the land reforms issue which the US and Britain are against. So they stuck with the MDC who promise to stop the reforms. What madela said is simply what all the SADC leaders are saying. There is a tragic failure because the government is killing(and this includes the MDC too although theirs is like a lady’s slap in the face compared to the ‘blows’ of the ZANU-PF)the very people it wants to give the opportunity to better their lives through the land reform instead of educating the people effectively for them to stay solidly behind this policy and see through the lies of cheap, selfish, and opportunistic politicians who for a very long time have ‘mortgaged’ africa to foreign crooks just for a few dollars and pounds. Long live the struggle for africa’s true freedom. Finally, could we leave madela alone to enjoy his birthday and as a matter of course, his last years in peace? I think we who are on the scene now are disgracing ourselves if we are asking our wise old statesman now to enter into this case. Then let him return to rule South Africa again. For goodness sake lets keep our unnecessary problems away from mandela.
He has put in his time and labour. Haven’t we learnt anything from his selfless nature? Can’t we tell mugabe in the face that we condemn his killings and we are also asking him to quit for his own health because of old age but assure him and continue with the land reforms programme which the whole of the southern belt of africa need? Shame unto the whole leadership of SADC. God bless you mandela and may God bless africa. Amen
I agree with you kpellyhezekiah.
Mandela should be left alone. He is old and should enjoy his last years.
Moreover, I don’t know how Mandela criticized his old comrade Robert Mugabe. I listen to the man and I can’t believe English speaking folks are buying into the criticism of Mugabe by Madiba. Madiba simply indicated that there is a failure of leadership in the region. He did not address the criticism to Robert Mugabe specifically.
I should also add that there is a failure not only at the sub-regional level but also at the global level. The UK and the west should not be left off the hook.
The UK constant verbal and mediatic aggression against Robert Mugabe should call any curious African to ask questions about the real motives of this campaign. I thought Africans have learned from the past.
1) The UK needs to accept the land reform. 5% of Whites should not and must not (True Africans should shed their blood for that) possess 80% of Zimbabwean agrarian land.
I read a lot of ignorant comments from Africans above. That is exactly what angers the other true Africans. A lot of us are sold out and prefer slavery over liberty. Jesus said “man does not live on bread alone, but by every Word that the Lord has spoken” Matthew 4:4, just for you evangelicals and other Christian folks. For others, please come to Christ.
Please stand for Justice I beg you. Can’t you see that it is an international effort to dispossess us Africans of our land? Morgan T of the MDC is simply a tool of the West.
2) Could the UK garenti the same mediatic coverage over the real African dictatorships such as the ones in Gabon? Omar Bongo is the longest reigning president in Africa now with 40 years in power. My goodness, the Gabonese have no alternative to the man in 40 years? Or is it simply because he owns 1/2 of the” huitieme arrondissement” in Paris and various other residences in the UK? This is to the detriment of his own poor fellow citizens. I could name many more African heads of State the Western world is turning the blind eye to.
3) Could the UK and the West finaly acknowledge that sponsored military coups in Africa are against the development and self-determination of African people? Why is Mark Tatcher (the son of Margaret Tatcher) isn’t covered by the BBC and WHYS as a satanic force amongst many other forces in Africa. By the way, i am available for the leadership of any such debate on the blogospshere.
4) Beloved, I am sensitive and I love justice. I understand that the people of Zimbabwe are suffering. However, wouldn’t a stoppage of the current UK led embargo lay the blame solely on Mr Mugabe? If he is the problem then prove that the current inflationary forces and misery of the people are due to his failed policies alone. It seems he is not the only one to blame since he can point the finger to the Westerners.
I should also add that the Knighthood that was taken away from him, shows once again that Britain is still using colonial tools to control Africa. I personally believe the real Knighthood, is that of Africans. Africans should receive Knighthood from Africans and not from those who plunder African Gold and Diamonds to show off.
Madiba is very well aware of the past. He is a wise man who would not specifically criticize his friend and comrade. He can address the global leadership, but not Mr. Mugabe alone.
@ Patou
You would raise a Firestorm in the US if you said certain races shouldn’t be allowed to own certain % of the farmland. YOu would be called a racist.
A knighthood is a colonial tool? It’s just a silly title.
@Steve
I did not mean to say Whites should not own land in Zimbabwe. I am simply offended by the Math. I hope you agree with me that, land redistribution was needed or some form of correction was needed to address the fact that in a post-Apartheid era, poor Zimbabweans needed some land.
Of course, White should be accomodated as well; since they are Zimbabweans. My recollection indicates that Whites lost a portion of their land, not 100%.
The whole thing was a fiasco from the beginning. I think the UK should have been involved for some kind of compensation to the Whites who lost that portion of their land. I also believe that some Zimbabweans would have sold their land to the better equipped white farmers if given the opportunity. However, this would have been legitimate.
The brutal Mugabe is a leader in the struggle against white rule in Africa. For that reason alone he will never get more than the mildest and most belated criticism from fellow leaders like Mandela or Mbeki, now matter how low he sinks and no matter that he has utterly destroyed Zimbabwe.
Mandela’s words are quite revealing of this blind loyalty and the total lack of concern for the people of Zimbabwe.
What is happening today Friday is a BIG MOCKERY OF WORLD DEMOCRACY.
As the world wil not act, only speak about this, it comes down to the people. From time to time the people have to throw off the bonds of a tyrant in order to keep the voice of the people alive. The people of the world would love to help, but our leaders will not act.
If the US were to be a part of international military action to stabalize the troubled countries in Africa and end the genocides happening I would sign up today.
Mandela is a person some of these african leaders should learn from. He`s old offcoarse out of politics (Real Statesman)his words may be of no influence as at now BUT THERE IS SOMETHING PEOPLE HAS TO LEARN FROM HIM & such are the people we ask wisdom from. Yesterday I said some leaders like ZANU PF`s they are so ignorant that they don`t even want to learn.
ViJay let me correct you to say ANC is failing now not in the time of Mandela. The leaders who are in ANC now are the ones failing & even failing correct a neighbour who is now affecting all neighbours including RSA itself adversily.
THE WHOLE OF AFRICA SHOULD OPEN THEIR EYES & LEARN FROM ONE OR TWO STATESMAN OF TODAY MADIBA & CHISANO & FROM ONE BIG FOOL MUGABE!!!!
LIMBANI.
And on the issue of land Mugabe GOOFFED BIG TIME. I agree the land belongs to africans but the way he handled the matter.
The majority (70%)of farm products we used to have in our super markets here in Malawi were from Zimbabwe (Butter,cheese,jam, canned fruits, fruit juice just to mention a few).
Come & check today there`s none, totally nothing from Zimbabwe.
Honestly this was production from the people he has chased away & now to the people he has distributed the Land can`t produce anything at all.
Poor Mugabe HE SHOULD IMMEDIATELY STEP DOWN, HAS FAILED the people of ZIMA ZAMABWE.
LIMBANI, Malawi.
THE un security council must send an internatioanl force to take over the Zimbabwe govt and order for a fresh election,
worst crisis has arisen out in the country,
who is responsible for,
large number of people,
killed by power hungry ruling junta,
remaining poor and helpless are facing,
unavoidable circumstances,
they are also displaced,
searching safer places.for saving their lives,
as well as theie childern,
but hopes are collaps, security in the future,
looks impossible to the large extent.
Same circumstances,
there is great similarity,
between the situation ,
as were found in Kebya.
Every one know that,
there was worst crisis,
just like Zimbabwe.
The question is that,
who resolved the crisis,
which formula was used for peace there,
Credit goes to Mr.Kofi Annan,
who presented formula,
in form of negotiation and power sharing,
the same can be carried out in Zimbabwe.
It is admitted fact that,
Tsavagirai has defeated in the first phase of presidential poll,
so he has right to have share in the power,
otherwise peace in the region would be dream,
which never come true.
Mr.Ban Ki Moon,
secretary general of the United Nations,
should move forward,
just like Kofi Annan,
he has availed tremendous support of United States and United Kingdom.
African union can also played a crucial role,
settling the outstanding issues,
created between the parties concerned.
I wouldf like advice,
through this chaper,Mugabe must be change its behavour,
and accepted the changed circumstances,
he should negotiate with democratice minde,
and resolve all disputed matter ,
with opposition,
only welfare for Zimbabwe and its peoples.
Gabriel, Harare, Zimbabwe
I agree with you. Britain is too proud to admit her hand in this sham. She renaiged on the land redistribution, clalled for sanctions when Mugabe refused to bow to them, hence the results.
It seem that the majority of people who are praising Mandela are Westerners and white.
Do white people ever wonder why their is a very large absence of support from Blacks. When he pushed winnie to the side lines thats when I lost respect for him. Now he is just the whitemans puppet. Enjoy the rest of your days Nelson with all of your celebrity support.
And before anyone starts putting Winnie down, because of stompie and others, just remember who was the real face behind to fight for his freedom.
As for Desmond TUTU, when will a whiteman ever stand trial for the atrocities that have been committed against blacks for 500 years. Stop praising the whitemans God and remeber your own.
@Clare in Harare,
I agree with you that Mandela became a hero because he accomodated the white minority of Sotuh Africa where there is still economic Apartheid. I also agree with you that Desmond Tutu is cigar smoker and champaign drinker as he talks peace even when his fellow Africans have the short end of the stick.
As for Winnie, there was such a campaign to seperate her from Nelson Mandela. You can actually see that the White supremacists who have a stake on South Africa’s wealth would do anything to eliminate true freedom fighters like Mama Winnie as they did with Steve Biko who would have been equally popular (as Nelson) had he lived.
Mugabe does not kiss up to anyone. he does not need any knighthood. Africa to the Africans. Morgan T. is a puppet of the West, who will give the land back to Whites as soon as the stupid Zimbabweans give him the opportunity.
There is currently an embargo aimed at paralyzing Zimbabwe. Why is Mugabe blamed for this horrific act? It is really an insult to intelligent Black Africans. The western media is simply saying that Blacks are not as capable as whites to cultivate the land; which is absurd. My parents have large fields of bananas and cocoa. All this is being sold in Europe as we speak.
Hypocrisy must stop. Mugabe is needed and shal stay as the boss. After all, Winston Churchill was a war hero who was held in a high piedestal. Treat Mugabe the same.
Zimbabwe is Kenya mark 2. It will end the same way: the cake divided between people who despite everything agree on most things.
LIMBANI Malawi thinks said this follow up this all of you.
The majority (70%)of farm products we used to have in our super markets here in Malawi were from Zimbabwe (Butter,cheese,jam, canned fruits, fruit juice just to mention a few).
Come & check today there`s none, totally nothing from Zimbabwe.
Honestly this was production from the people he has chased away.——————————-
ok MR limbani the farm products malawians used to have in markets were from zimbabwe. am asking where is your farm products? i mean malawian farm products.
you know what!!! take off, or put off, roll off the eye glasses given to you by the white colonialists
because you cannot see the reality while you wearing these eye glasses. limbani is saying that blacks cannot cultivate the land. africans were cultivating their land millions of years. whites were not in africa that era. ok bnrother.
brother
amadeo.
Tsavangirai,
defeated Mugabe in teh first round,
and expected to win the forthcoming,
On the other hand,
after due consideration,
Mugabe had come to definite point,
he is going to loss the power game.
perhaps the time of accountabiity has come.
So took his all the clothes,
except underwear,
made himself nude,
and crying.
Killing of opposit party workers,
began under a pre-planed,
as received informatiopn ,
more than hundered were killied,
it is way Mugabe had adopted ,
to create room amid remaing in power.
Many intyelectuals,colum writers,saying,
Kenyan formula should impos there on,
that is essential for peace,
and the people’s security.
I would hope ,
they would agreed on it,
because it is acceptable for both.
Okay..im really getting fed up of watching CNN and BBC and all they report is how bad Mugabe is. Every cloud has a silver lining! And then they have the nerve to talk about how he is so not democratic. What is democracy? I mean the EU, UK and US cannot let us practice our democracy without them.This is our continent. Our matters are our matters. For so long as President Robert Mugabe did not try to take back the land stolen by the Whites, he was okay. But when he began to respond to his people’s land hunger, he became a pariah and came under sanctions and destabilization from these White supremacist powers.
The crisis in Zimbabwe is one of sovereignty not democracy. The big question is: ‘Do we as Africans have the right to determine our own destiny without approval from the West? Does Zimbabwe has the right to reform land policy or doesn’t it? If they don’t then what is the value of African ‘independence’ and ‘democracy?’’ In my view absolutely nothing!