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A defiant Robert Mugabe has sailed unchallenged through the first test of his presidency by his peers.
Freshly sworn in after a single candidate election, he received a leader’s welcome when he strode into the African Union summit in Sharm el-Sheikh yesterday and emerged unfazed, his authority intact.
He dined at a lavish luncheon given by his Egyptian hosts, hugged heads of state and other diplomats in the corridors and stayed at the Peninsula Hotel, one of the most luxurious in this Red Sea town. “Mr Mugabe is staying there as a courtesy by the Egyptian Government,” a hotel spokesman said. Delegates from the opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) lodged at the Sheraton, while their leader, Morgan Tsvangirai, remained in Zimbabwe.
The African Union’s public response to Mr Mugabe’s seizure of power was seen as a key measure of the organisation’s commitment to democracy after Zimbabwe’s violent run-off elections.
However, protest from African leaders at the summit was muted, even as Western leaders from France, the United States and Canada joined Britain in ratcheting up pressure on the organisation to reject Mr Mugabe’s authority. In London, Gordon Brown had said that the summit should “make it absolutely clear there has got to be change . . . I think the message is coming from the whole world that the so-called elections will not be recognised”.
In Nairobi, Raila Odinga, the Kenyan Prime Minister, called on the union to eject Mr Mugabe from the summit. He said: “He should be suspended until he allows the African Union to facilitate free and fair elections.” The African Union’s own observers in Harare said the vote “fell short” of the organisation’s standards.
In New York, the United States asked the UN to impose stringent sanctions on Zimbabwe for the first time since the country’s independence. US diplomats circulated a draft resolution calling for a total arms embargo on the country as well as a travel ban and a freezing of the assets of designated individuals who have worked to “undermine democratic processes or institutions in Zimbabwe”. Washington said that it would push for a vote in the UN Security Council as early as this week.
Zalmay Khalilzad, the US Ambassador to the UN, said he was “pretty confident” that the Security Council would take action on Zimbabwe. However, African leaders appeared reluctant to launch an outright challenge to Mr Mugabe’s rule for fear that it would propel the country into deeper turmoil. There was also a sense that any criticism levelled by some leaders would be dismissed, given their own countries’ poor democratic records.
Delegates at the summit spoke broadly of the need for negotiations to steer Zimbabwe out of its current political crisis but failed to endorse the three key demands of Mr Tsvangirai. He has asked the union to reject Mr Mugabe’s authority, appoint a new mediator to help to find a solution to the impasse and empower an African police force to patrol the country. A draft resolution does not criticise the run-off or Mr Mugabe.
George Sibotshiwe, a spokesman for the MDC, told The Times he was cautiously optimistic that Africa’s leaders would take stronger measures to end the political crisis during sessions today. “I would hope that the nature of what happened in Zimbabwe warrants a strong response and a lot of the leaders are taking our problems into consideration,” he said.
The summit opened with Asha-Rose Migiro, the UN Deputy Secretary-General, urging African statesmen to take action. She said: “We are facing an extremely grave crisis. This is the single greatest challenge to regional stability in Southern Africa, not only because of its terrible humanitarian and security consequences but because of the dangerous political precedent it sets.” Mr Mugabe appeared unmoved as she spoke.
African leaders sidestepped any criticism of tainted elections. President Jakaya Kikwete of Tanzania said: “We would like to congratulate the Zimbabwean people for their successes but we would also like to express our commiserations for their suffering.”
Elizabeth Nyamayaro, Geneva, Switzerland
The chaos in Zimbabwe has little to do with the British govt. This is the nonsensical puerile propaganda one hears from Mugabe because he is not man enough to assume responsibility for his failures. The British do not rule Zimbabwe; Zimbabweans do.
Charan Muzaya, London, UK
I am a Zimbabwean also saddened by the situation in my country. However I feel that as much as Mugabe is to blame, so is the United Kingdom. Both sides need to stop using the media as their main channel of communication and MUST sit down and hold a diplomatic dialogue. We all know that Mugabe's grivance is not so much with Tswangirai but with the British Government. To see my full article on the matter please visit my blog at: http://thefutureofzimbabwe.blogspot.com/
Elizabeth Nyamayaro, Geneva, Switzerland
Lloyd, London said "...Chiefs claimed lands for their tribes by driving off other tribes. Whites claimed land in the same way."
This is a simplistic view. When the African tribes fought, they had a level playing field but when the Whites claimed land in
Africa it was not so - Guns vs knives?
Lim, Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Leila, manchester said: "I'd be interested to know how many African regimes are not dictatorships. "
Yes, at the same time, please also find out how many of the West were and were not past colonialists.
060708
Lim, Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Tola makes an intersting point - maybe sending home significant numbers of immigrants would not only stimulate African economies because of skills transfer / repatriation but also lead to political reform.
Alan, London, UK
All the people here are saying "cut aid to Africa" - as if the West is sustaining Africa. The amount of 'aid' that the West gives to Africa simply pales in comparison to the amount of money African immigrants that work in Europe and USA send back to Africa in remittances.
Tola, London,
DEMOCRACY, DEMOCRACY, DEMOCRACY. The catch word of the moment. I can't see it working in the reality anywhere in Africa and certainly not sustained and bringing the stability that I associate with the word.
Democracy in Europe has been an evolution, is there not another way for Africa?
Craig, Kingsbridge, UK
Wasn't it the Queen who knighted Mugabe few years back, the venality and hypocrisy of the English is mind boggling, to say the least. Till the time one is a lapdog, you will shower him with awards and what not but the moment he steps out of line, you pounce on him like hungry mongrels. Shame!
kewal singh rana, Delhi, India
Wade - maybe Mandela should have said more - but the guy is 90! Isn't it about time others stuck their neck out in the name of Africa? Britain has to help where it can, but the remaining animosity over colonisation and past involvement means that the drive for change must come from Africa!!!
Gemma, Nottingham,
call Mugabe whatever u want & see if we, real mentally-decolonised Zimbabweans, care. I am one of those who willfully and unshamefully voted our hero back to power. I'm actually laughing at westeners' comments for they rely on hearsay and care less to get 1st-hand information. Proud in my homeland.
rodrick, harare, zimbabwe
The Mugabe of many years ago who was seen as a good leader then has gone.The Mugabe of today is the lead man surrounded by a corrupt gang of gready high ranking government officials who line their pockets at the expense of the poor and hungry. Africa has a few decent leaders and they must stand firm
margot parker, Kettering, UK
The steady decine of their economy has not hindered Mugabe so far. But go ahead with the sanctions, etc. Take away the Cup. Then, let their people decide to fight. We'll help when they decide to take some action. But, the lot of us are sick of standing up for those who wont stand up for themselves!
Valerie, New York, USA
You all should read HOW EUROPE UNDERDEVELOPED AFRICA by Walter Rodeny a white man Then you will understand why the West will never cut aid to Africa. Aid is jst a manipulative tool & u stand to lose more. The chaos in Africa is conducive to western interests thats why you dislike Russia @ China.
Samora Blaq , Matopos, Arusha
Anyone got a vacuum missile?
Rob, Brum, UK
This Mugabe debacle just goes to show that Africa has no true desire to change. While people suffer & die, African politicians live the 5 star life & refuse to act against the evils that permeate their lands. If Africa does not value its own people then how can we help?!
Ruby, Belfast,
I remember that Africa has won independence from Europe colominists. Why there are some many europeans yelling to make decision for Africans? Making decision on how African choose their leaders and life?? Arrigance? Ignorance? or Idiocy? Leave Africa to Africans, they can make decision by their own
Chris, NY,
Unfortunately African solutions to African problems in both politics and business consist of holding conferences and meetings - preferably in the most luxurious and expensive venues. Few resolutions are passed, and even when they are there is no understanding that people have to carry them out.
Ronni Curtis, Johannesburg, South Africa
What a sicko Mugabe and his henchmen are. At 18.00hrs UK time tonight I saw a BBC reporter trying to interview Mugabe and one of his bodyguards threatened to "blow your head off" ,and then later punhced the reporter. What very Statesmen like people these are ,NOT. Send in troops and depose him.
Kev, London, United Kingdom
The African political classes from Mubarak to M'beki have shown their true colours. Apart from Zambia and the PM of Kenya they hold free and fair elections in contempt. The Football World Cup should be held outside Africa and the Zimbabwean team should be banned from taking part
Daniel Cramer, Welwyn, UK
I can't believe i'm saying this but maybe we should just leave Africa to it. Stop the aid to governments (only provide aid that bypasses officialdom) and just trade with companies where we are sure that no corruption exists (no party will get a slice). See how much they salt away then.
Jamie Cuthbert, Edinburgh, Scotland
Why is everyone so surprised?
This is Africa and the normal rules and values don't apply.
it is OK for Mugabe to be welcome at an African summit, because Africans don't criticise other Africans.
Each and every leader who attended the summit and failed to eject Mugabe bears responsibiity
Warren, Brisbane, Australia
Zimbabwe is not our fight. Democracy is not a gift. A free people
will fight for it or lose it. Let the people of Zimbabwe decide if
freedom is worth the risks required to achieve it.
John, Placentia, Republic of California
True defenders of democracy would be taking action in Saudi Arabia, UAE, China or even Russia. Stop pretending that you care about Zimbabweans.
This is about the UK failing to honour pledges made to pay £600 million compensation as part of the Lancaster Agreement during Thatcher's government.
Thomas Parker, London, England
Of course European colonialism is (as always) to blame for this mess.
So why isn't this happening in India?
James, Sunderland,
I feel that the world has seen one of the worst dictator since Adolf Hitler. Mr Robert Mugabe has clearly been into power for a long time and he is clearly losing it. Despite it, he still receives a warm welcome at the African Summit. What is the world coming to?
Sandhir Ruttun, London, United Kingdom
African countries were raped by the major European powers so wounds of victimhood run deep. Freedom fighters of colonial aggression are saluted as heroes whether Mandela or Mugabe. Africa is Africa, blessed with extraordinary mineral riches, a generation of new young leaders can still bring hope
Brian Gazeley, Kumamoto, Japan
Bob Geldorf and Bono must be on holiday. Haven't heard from them for a while - better check under the bed to see if they are all right.
Christopher H, Canberra, Australia
"A defiant Robert Mugabe has sailed unchallenged through the first test of his presidency by his peers.
"Freshly sworn in after a single candidate election, he received a leaders welcome when he strode into the African Union summit"
... No surprises there then. Africa must support itself!
Edwin, Bucharest,
Chris, New York - do we care? What planet are you living on? Just re-read what you wrote and think about joining Mugabe's thugs. At the end of the day, this is down to the humanitarian atrocities being carried out, one being a 2 yr old having his legs broken. If Mugabe was white?
Alison, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
I now demand that Gordon Brown stops all aid to Africa.
Dave, Notts, UK
the level of misinformation , revisionist history myths and flat out propaganda spouted as facts by more than a few commentators here would be laughable if it wasn't so sad.
Maybe Africa, where it all started for the human species, will also be the place where it all ends.
david, New York, United States
Where was the outrage, when the Nationalist declared apartheid in 1945?. Where was the outrage, when Ian Smith declared UDI in 1965?. PM Wilson flatly refused to use force to end the rebellion. Why? because Smith and all the racist were while . VIVA MUGABE.
Kwadwo, RIVERSIDE, CA, USA
At last people see what Africa is all about. Never before have so many openly condemned Africa and its leaders. Mugabe will be to blame for what will now be a public back lash against Africa as a whole. Charities will see a huge downturn in contributions and I fear for what will happen next.
Lloyd, London,
Valentine, Aberdeen, you are the one who should read your history books. The indigenous people of Southern Africa were NOT the forbearers of todays inhabitants. Because of tribal systems Chiefs claimed lands for their tribes by driving off other tribes. Whites claimed land in the same way.
Lloyd, London,
Mugabe is a disgrace to the whole of Africa and there isnt much other leaders can do because most of them are election robbers. But those calling for Aid to be withdrawn are just misguided. Africa dont need Aid from anybody. The world needs Africa more than we need them.
Nduka Tolefe, Leeuwarden, Holland
I feel what the people of Zimbabwe are going through at this time having come from the same position last december here in kenya. We stand with Zimbambweans and ask the whole world including our African leaders who have to be pushed to protest against Mugabe. Kudos to PM Raila for being a good voice
Gerald, Nairobi, Kenya
"Africa is a cruel country - It takes your heart and grinds it to powdered stone - and nobody minds" - Elspeth Huxley
john rigby, kenilworth, england
I'd be interested to know how many African regimes are not dictatorships.
Why is anyone surprised at the dearth of criticism for Mugabe?
leila, manchester, uk
Let's pull the Football World Cup out of South Africa and see if that makes them wake up to reality.
Rob Arthur, Edinburgh, Scotland
The masses in Zimbabwe continue to suffer because they
have "no free" democratic voice. Zimbabwe's leaders are
afraid to stand up and be counted. It's time for a positive
change in this country. The masss have a right to live in
peace.Stop passing the buck, Zimbabwean leaders.
Change!
naomi, joppa, United States
The vast majority of Africa's leaders have shown that by not challenging Mugabe publically they still have an ingrained colonial/victim mentality which the Asian nations shrugged off decades ago. Africa is a truly doomed continent with 'leaders' like this
Chris Thomas, Oxford, England
AU will not critise RM because of setting a precedent.Mbeki will do nothing against him ,- he supplies him with arms.Take out RM and he is replaced by another goon.A serious economic disaster is looming that could spill over , that demands attention by the highest world bodies,UN ,World Bank ,IMF.
Ian McNeil, Roussayrolles, France
What a shame on African's as Muggy "received a leaders welcome", shame on the leaders too! Some would consider this arrogance towards Britain @ the expense of their people. If only there was oil there!
raj, birmingham, england
Mugabe was right when he said who can point a finger amongst that lot in the African Union. Its disgusting but true nearlty all of them treat their peoples very badly. He probaly has information on all of them so they shut up. Our leaders look nieve and stupid to believe to believe anything else.
Jas, Alders, UK
Sadly if the west stops giving aid to Africa both Russia and China will only be too happy to step up their levels of support and Mugabe knows this.
It's Animal Farm come to life with a cruel & brutal vengance - "all (Africans) are born equal but some are born more equal than others!"
Tony Campbell, Northampton, UK
Sociologist Arthur Stinchcombes acerbic treatment of legitimacy was that the opinion of the person over whom power is exercised is not usually as important as other power holders. Legitimacy is then the probability that other authorities will act to confirm the decisions of a given authority...
Luke, Geneva, Switzerland
Well, the AU asked for an 'African Solution'. I guess they've got it.
I'm not happy with my taxes propping up these countries anymore.
Matthew, London, UK
Mugabe is no different than has gone before and will happen again. The African has his independence leave him to get on with it.
Bob du Gay, Farnham, England
As my mother says to me, "You have to learn to look after yourself someday."
Jon, Liverpool, England
It's time the aid to some of these African nations was cut. Let them paddle their own canoes for a while as it seems their leaders are taking Western nations for a ride.
Sandra, Derbyshire, UK
Mugabe's 'just recovery of Zimbabwe's land' has resulted in no food for now, no food for later, no jobs, no nothing. No African leader will condemn him, neither should we, jsut quietly withdraw our financial support.
helen, Norwich,
What most people fail to realize is that Mr. Mugabe's ZANU PF actually beat MDC-T in the popular vote by some 69,000 or so odd votes in the March 29 parliamentary elections although ZANU PF had fewer parliamentary seats. Why do analysts fail to take this into account? Mr. Mugabe is still popular.
bongo, Harare, Zimbabwe
The 'elections' are an absolute disgrace and an affront to the people of Zim. It is unbelievable that they allow their 'leader' to take them for such a ride. The response by other African leaders is just as ridiculous. Politics - a game of power where no one cares for the people. Nico, Pretoria
Nico, Pretoria, South Africa
Yet again the African leaders have a lavish feast despite so many of their people dying of starvation. I wouldn't mind giving to charity if it went to the hungry people but not when it gets spent on arms, limos and more palaces for corrupt "leaders"
Luke, London, UK
No more aid Africa, until you show you deserve it. All you want to do is to line your pockets at others expense and kill any body who disagrees. All the western countries are doing is to pour money into arms and war machines, and Zimbabwe no longer exists- rename it Mugabeland.
alan, benalmadena, spain
It is pristinely clear that the manner in which Africa governs itself is lacking in almost every respect. They were far better off under colonial rule. Food, protection, money, and health come before self-determination. The UN should change the regimes that are so clearly failing their people.
S Williams, London,
This is an absolute outrage!!! The issues of Zimbabwe are no longer political. They are humanitarian, innocent people are dying. CHILDREN ARE DYING!! What future does a country have without itse children? Why are the leaders of the world doing nothing to aid the people of Zim? Arent we all people?
Bianca Peel, Saint Jean de Monts, France
For crying out loud, why doesn't the west just leave Africa to it. Africa has got used to relying on handouts (TRILLIONS over the years) and it's about time the hard working taxpayers outside Africa stopped having their money wasted
John, Eccles, England
Mugabe certainly deserves his renewed power for all that he did to the just recovery of Zimbabwe's land occupied by the British colonialists. Congratulations to him!
Tian Qingyou, Tianjin, China
For 50 years we have been aiding many African nations out of post-colonial guilt and basic humanity. However we now need to make all non-humanitarian assistance conditional on supporting human rights and democracy in their own and surrounding states. Enough is enough.
Gus Swan, London, UK
Is Africa back to square one?
Rodney Barker, Gainsborough, England UK
Once again we see that Africans are incapable of governing their continent. All of Africa's current worst problems - genocide, tyranny, corruption, famine etc - are problems created by Africans for other Africans Colonialisation? Pull the other one Mr Mugabe!
KateBush, London, UK
Show M`Beki that we do care. ! I , for one , have cancelled my booking for the Football world cup , and my Oxfam account states"No African countries". Futile and childish , I know , but what else can one do legally?
swisschris, New Malden, UK
The biggest disappointment is that Nelson Mandela has failed to speak out clearly and unequivocally (as Desmond Tutu has to his credit done so). Mandela is the only African with global respect and moral authority, so it is his responsibility to show moral leadership and shame the rest into action.
Wade, Watamu, Kenya
It seems to me that there is a double standard here among the African leaders - would their reaction be the same if Mugabe had white skin and ordered the people of his country to be beaten, tortured and starved and was re-elected under the same questionable circumstances as this creature?
Caroline Coleman, St Helier, Jersey, UK
Mugabe greeted as a hero by his peers. No surprise there.
Simon Marshland, Bath, UK
The West can't have it both ways. Who supplies these countries with a large number of their weapons? We cry out when democracy is subverted but then happily provide these dictators with the means to subjugate their people. Africa is corrupt, but not all Africans are. Withdraw aid and who wins?
James, London,
The West should halt all aid and encourage every single NGO to pull out of every African country that does not have a democratically elected government. The leaders of despotic regimes should have travel and finance bans so that their ill gotten gains cannot be enjoyed in the democratic world.
Tom Porter, Singapore, Singapore
Not so long ago Britain was wining and dining Mr Mugabe. This was also the time when he was spreading venomous words about gays, likening them to pigs. It was also during this visit, I recall, that Peter Tatchell was beaten up for challenging him on human rights. And that was in Britain not Africa.
B Redfern, Zdole, Slovenia
horrified by some comments.Do some of you think al African people are evil?. intelligent people know that evil knows no race,gender or age.Are you willing to turn your back on innocent people?. it seems so. Politics aside. Babies are dying.Remember that when you sleep at night
Joyce, London,
As slavery was abolished by the West despite the opposition of black feudal kings, so democracy will prevail, driven by the West, despite the antics of black despots.
bob holmes, Axbridge , England
What will happen to the suffering populations of African countries if we cut off all aid??
John Murphy, Bournemouth,
Africa has failed itself in not taking a firmer stance with the Mugabe regime. They must intervene. But shame some of your racist readers. Condemn Mugabe, not all Africans! What do you know about morals. Your comments come from a more sinister place. Look in the mirror and behold fascism!
G Money, London, England
Sarkozy of France is meeting with 40 nations' leaders (Moslem and EU) on July 13: his stated intention is to set up a 'Mediterranean Union' with Africa as the gateway to mass "immigration" into Europe from African countries and Middle Eastern countries.
James, london,
Roy, Newtown OK so what do you suggest, all you are doing is criticizing comment when you have no solution besides sarcasm- sahouting on paper or email. Frustration is high but we have no solution because we are all to bloody apathetic and do not know where to start. Come on tell us !
Lloyd, London,
As long as these so called Presidents and their advisors are allowed to cream off all their country's wealth and live like Billionaires send there kids to Private school's and Uni's all over the west, keep there oversea's bank accounts, whilst their people live in poverty nothing will change. EVER
Keith Pullen, Tewkesbury, UK
What can we as individuals do? It may not be much but I will boycott all African goods until they sort Mugabe out.
Tim T, Exeter, Devon
African leaders do not represent the majority of Africans. This is the crucial point to understand. I'm pretty sure that even the slave trade was perpetuated by African leaders even as the majority of Europeans wanted to abolish it. Please do NOT abandon the 99% of simple Africans who have no voice!
Charan Muzaya, London, UK
What a bunch of spineless people? It turns my stomach to think the future of Africa lies in the hands of these people. Good luck Africa. You'll need it. Next time your people are starving don't come to us, look to your fellow Africans.
Al, Brighton, England
Stanley in Rio Brazil, the people of Zimbabwe are crying out for the opportunity to solve their own problems but will we who have so much stop to help them?
Ross, Adelaide, Australia
I pity the ordinary people of Africa who have leaders who are gutless cowards. Is there no-one who will stand up for people's democratic rights? Zimbabwe was once one of the richest countries in Africa and it has been brought to its knees by one megalomaniac dictator. I agree - stop all aid.
Maureen Carter, Sutton Coldfield, England
Anyone surprised? When the chips are down, they stick together.
Stop ALL aid and investment and leave us to sort out our problems, totally by ourselves.
In the real world aiding and abetting a killer would see you in jail. But not in this case. With few exceptions, Af's leaders are a disgrace
Rod Baker, Cape Town, South Africa
Let's all wring our hands & shout - LOUDLY.
Now doesn't that make us all feel better.
Now back to work - and oh - the people are still suffering after all our great effort.
Well let's shout again - even LOUDER this time - that'll do the trick. Er.........
Roy, Newtown, UK
Is it not about time we stopped wasting our money on these corrupt african countries. I say send nothing but food aid and let them deal with their own problems.
sam , newcastle , staffordshire
The AU appear to be doing nothing, and the West just talking. South Africa seems to be colluding, the one country that has the clout to change things. People in the West should refuse to buy South African goods remember it worked against SA in the past. That would bring Mbeki to his senses
Douglas McLean, Nerja, Spain
Don't be ashamed...these people are still in the middle age..what were we doing during our Middle Age...just about the same thing. The same goes for islam: they are currently in year 1401.. ! However we have evolved and become inteligent. they just need another 7 centuries or so !
E. Bee, Toulouse, France
freeze the swiss bank accounts, send party members kids home from western uni's, trace the congo diamonds - why won't mbeki & many others critises...oh then bob the loose cannon will spill the beans...
mary, qld, australia
If the west cuts off ALL aid to the countries supporting Mugabe he would not last a week!!
Don't threaten to doit,just do it!!
Barry, St Albans, England
"send the millions of African immigrants/refugees in the west back to their Africa."
Claire, Brisbane,
And while we are on that can we send all the bloody convicts in Australia back to the UK as well?
Nash, Keston,
The AU are essentially showing astonishing levels of complicity with Mugabe, and are in effect validating torture and murder as acceptable practices. The West needs to reciprocate with sanctions, not just against Zim, but also with those countries that are essentially supporting the regime.
Teg, Dubai, UAE
It is a truth universally acknowledged that governments and international institutions exist not for the benefit of the people they purport to serve, but for the benefit of their leaders.
GARY, MEIZHOU, CHINA
No more aid to Africa.
Richard, Bucharest,
Cut off all aid to Africa and let them solve their problems in their African way.
Stanley, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
People who criticise the 'west' for 'interfering',who say leave Africa for Africans I would like to watch your jaws drop when you see what comes for Africa when we pull out-every drop of aid,all trade,everything and send the millions of African immigrants/refugees in the west back to their Africa.
Claire, Brisbane,
Actually, Mr Duncan in London, the difference is that some of Europe (and even the Americans, eventually, after they were sure we would win) actually did something about Hitler, whereas the African leaders seem content to allow Mugabe to continue to lead. Oh, and Hitler was democratically elected.
Ed, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
Kipling knew but we are addled by political correctness...
Take up the White Man's burden-
The savage wars of peace-
Fill full the mouth of Famine
And bid the sickness cease;
And when your goal is nearest
The end for others sought,
Watch sloth and heathen Folly
Bring all your hopes to nought
Odin, NYC, USA
atypical primate behaviour albeit sad.
And we the West allow the small folks to get mashed to pieces..literally.
WE SHOULD BE COLLECTIVELY ASHAMED OF OURSELVES.
simon fellows, vancouver, Canada
We are the most knowledgeable but confused generation since creation.We have let gangster rule us and in the end killing us,the UK keeps Hamza and Africa will also continue keeping Mugabe.
Arthur C, Notts, UNited Kingdom
Congratulations to all the African leaders for embracing Mugabe. Turns out you are all the same. The modern world should stay out of African affairs. They are proving they can handle anything in a tribal sort of way.
Carl, Atlanta, USA
It is quite clear that Africa as a continent is not ready for democracy, the only interest from the West is for oil and minerals, so lets do what the chinese do, make deals with these despots and not ask questions. Anything else is a waste of money time and resources.
Nick P., Camberley Surrey, England
Why don't these Western nations actually do something rather than utter words of distatse etc cut them off. Withdraw Embassies, prohibit their companies from trading with them and any other nation who decides to ...
Dino, Melbourne, Australia
It is called the 'RG-factor'.A new acute illness that inflicts any leaders when Mugabe arrives.
Tony Blair had to dash off in Rome.
Jack Straw suffered transient color-blindness.
Levy Mwanawasa went into cardiac arrest.
African leader have gone mute...and
Tsvangirai is severely disoriented.
Alton Hadzisa, London, UK
Mugabe would be very pleased with himself at the way he seems to have hit a nerve!
As for the idea that ALL Africans should
feel some kind of collective responsibility towards the Zimbabwe situation , thats like blaming all Europeans for Global Warming or the Nazi atrocities ,or the World wars
Mr Duncan , London,
This just goes to show that Africa cannot be left to its own devices and remain peaceful. Either we should stop caring and leave them alone or go and sort them out ourselves, instead of sitting on the fence as usual.
Richard Fox, Cottingham,
He is a very violent man who is prepared to almost anything to stay in power. Watching the News at Ten the reporter Julian Manyan who questioned Mugabe over the way in which he felt his presidency was justified. In the end Mugabe's men pushed the reporter in front of cameras and an audience.
Phil, Manchester, England
There was a Palestinian march and fair. I asked aboutZimbabwe stall . This is about Palestine. Why are Stop the war, Socialist workers etc here. They always support us.
No riots over Zimbabwe. Only the West that fights the dictators, and provides the money. Time to break the
evil alliance.
ged, Manchester,
Our biggest problem is that so many of the citizens of these useless coutries are being driven out by the policies that these dictators put in place to keep them in power. They then send back money to there families so that they can buy food. This is the foreign currency which keeps them in power.
George, London, UK
What a bunch of good-for-nothing, useless, corrupt, morons Africa's leaders are!
Africa was better of Colonised!
Sam, Southampton, UK
Dictatorships start immediately south of the Mediterranean.
Drive to Sicily and from the southern coast there's just 125 kilometres to dictatorships, illiteracy, ignorance, female genital mutilation, genocide and slavery ad nausea.
Gerald. B., Aarhus, Denmark
What happened to African solutions to African problems? The AU has proved itself incapable of doing anything meaningful. SADC seems no better, though they have made a bit more noise of late. In 2 weeks time Zim will be off the news and Mugabe will continue as he always has, and no-one will care...
David Ashton, Bathurst, Australia
This is an outrage people are dying children are starving. Hello People this is real. this man is punishing the whole country and the world is watching . T hey even admitted him in the sumit! And the Chair f the sumit, Tanzanian president even congatulated him!
what is wrong with you sir?!
mickey, kettering, uk
Disgusting.
Tom Wilde, London,
Come now people! Democracy? And just what have Africans and the African continent really ever understood about democracy? The naivety of the West galls me. Democracy is totally foreign to African culture, as are Western values and ways- and no amount of bleating and uproar will ever change that.
Geoff, Ashburton, New Zealand
I feel absolutely no compunction to interfere in the workings of a sovereign nation. Wiser with that passage of time? I don't know, but definitely alert to some political twit offering the lives of our children on another ill thought out scheme.
Terence Park, Burnley,
Maybe Mrs Thatcher was wrong to hand power to Mugabe. There would not have been this barbarism if Ian Smith had been in power. And the economy would probably have been in better shape.Still, that's what happens when you expect democracy from people who are not quite ready for it.
tony martin, nice , france
Even after this latest debacle in Zimbabwe Mugabe is still welcomed by African leaders with open arms. Serious questions need to be asked as to why more hasn't been done to rid Zimbabwe of such a savage tyrant.
Mark, Muswell Hill,
The ignorance being shown in these posts is shocking. The Colonists did not leave ,they rigged elections (Nigeria) and propped up the likes of Mobutu et al to do their bidding. The West can't survive without the resources it has been blundering from Africa. You are all complicit in this problem.
Tom, London,
How extremely disappointing that such a dictator can be allowed to attend such an event, and equally not be challenged without fear even outside the country he terrorises.
Kathryn, Glasgow, UK
Valentine, Aberdeen, UK
Ah so you would see the sins of their fathers passed down onto their sons and daughters.
Well by your logic maybe you should move back to Ireland, after all it is you Gaelics that helped erradicate the Picts
Phill, Heswall, England
On behalf of all Caucasians:
One of the reasons for which we are outraged, and in uproar, is because opponents to Mugabe have been threatened with violence, rape and murder.
Richard C, London, UK
Why are people knocking Brown for speaking up on this?
I dislike him and want him gone as much as any Brit - but he has the moral authority to criticise Mugabe. We live in a democratic country where when the five years max between elections comes round we'll vote him out. Not like Zimbabwe.
Matthew, London,
With 3 million Euro's, on his head, the geese are gathering?
Perks, Ontario, Canada
They got the black leader they wanted, they got the land back from the white minority they wanted, they should be seeing the fruits of their labors by now, so why if it's not working, do we care? Africa should be a bread basket, instead it's a basket case, we have our own problems, time to move on.
Dave, Milwaukee,
Comparing Mugabe's non-election with Gordon Brown's, is odious offensive and cheapens the debate. Brown is only Prime Minister and he and his party will be fairly voted from office at the next election and babies legs will not get broken nor party activists be hacked to death.
Alastair, Rye, UK
JB@Norwich
Citizens of Zimbabwe? Pls! U mean descendents of WHITE racist colonist right? They STOLE the land in d first place, amongst other things. Go read the history of Rhodesia aka Zimbabwe.
I'd rather be a prince in my homeland, than be a servant in another mans "palace"
Valentine, Aberdeen, UK
I think it's a shame to watch an entire nation slowly perish while its neighbors applaud the executioner. Western nations have been pumping billions into Africa for decades with very little to show for it except a new class of kleptocrats that oppress their people without mercy.
Christopher Millsap, Oklahoma City, USA
The vote fell short of the AU's "standards." That IS grim news.
Jim Beam--Hard to question the validity of something that doesn't exist.
Bernard-hitchin: Heard of Bokassa and Amin?
Is anyone REALLY surprised?
Paul Theroux's book "Dark Star Safari" is instructive reading at this time.
Terry L. Walker, Ladson, SC / USA
The whole episode is a sham. There is no freedom in Egypt as there is no freedom in Zimbabwe. This meeting was a convention of tyrants, dictators and theives.
Adam, Houston, USA
It's easy to turn a blind eye and absolve ourselves of guilt because others refuse to recognize the inherent evil oppression this election represents, but what about the innocent women and children who will bear the true brunt of this corruption. Lest we forget, these humans deserve basic freedoms.
Shannan, Chicago,
uk taxes being miss spent?when billions got raped over decades in africa Did the uk benefit from raping africa?Yes your worthless economy 40 years ago became the strongest in the world unfortunately it got spent on immoral wars mugabe has learned from the best and like your leaders he must go
gordon, port elizabeth,
Let us all spare a thought for the heroic individuals who exercised their democratic right to vote and will suffer as a result. Or maybe 2 minutes silence rather than a thought. This is about individuals and their families.
John, Colchester,
The AU has shown itself to be exactly what Mr Mugabe likes, a cowering bunch of whipping boys who either don't know the difference between right and wrong or do know the difference but couldn't give a damn.
C Donnelly, London, England
I think it is time for the rest of the world to recognise that it is "being taken for a ride" by African governments and cut aid across the board to every government that does not practice or support good government. The AU meeting was a litmus test, many governments failed.
CM, London/Washington,
The African Union has so far let down the Zimbabwean population that had pinned its hopes on the summit to dennounce Mugabe's unilateral declaration of presidency. Perhaps dictatorship and illigitimacy of governments does not mean anything to African leaders. Dictatorship shows muscle!
Shame on AU
Nancy Lazarus, Birmingham, UK
The ANC is complicit in Mugabe's crime against his country. If Africa can not confront Mugabe at its own submit, the west may as well let Africa destroy itself.
Coin, Cambridge, England
Do you know what I've been following this for a bit and was hoping that the African nations at this summit would protest against Mugabe in some shape or form. But this?! Forget it.
I don't think it should be reported on now. What can we do? Its up to Africa as a whole to do something. Not us.
Warren, Southport, U.K.
Brown was not elected - - Mugabe was - - so maybe Brown should be the one to go (as he could not be bothered to stop the Mugabe farce) ?
Bob Brown, Carlsbad, USA - California
Think it is time for Britain & the West to leave Africa to sort themselves out. It speaks volumes that other African leaders havent the backbone to speak out against this tyrant. Lets face it the UK has plenty of problems of its own!
Stuart, London,
Stuff Mugabe - Africa will always be a problem of one sort or another but not my problem - let nature take it's course.
L Richmond - Bush and Blair stood up to Dictators - and got legitimately re-elected because most people agreed with their ways.
Mr Todman, Birmingham, UK
Mugabe confiscated the farms of Citizens of Zimbabwe to give to ignorant people whose only qualification is that their faces are black. Hence the people of once prosperous Zimbabwe are starving,have no jobs and are persecuted and beaten because they do not vote for an incompetent racialist ruler.
JB, Norwich,
If it wasn't so serious it would be hilarious. Mugabe wins 84% of the vote when he was the only candidate!
Michael Beasley, Redhill, Surrey
It is inconceivable for the world not to intervene, arrest Mugabe and his cronies and try them all for crimes against humanity. The cries from the helpless inside Zimbabwe are for the world to intervene. The response from those with power to do so, is pitiful. The world is weak against dictators.
Karin, Broughton, Wales
Keep your money. We in Africa have enough resources to manage on our own. We are tired of Western hypocrisy! Millions of pounds indeed! That money goes to fund multinationals who repatriate their profits anyway.
Brian Shongwe, Nairobi,
Every despotic regime from Hitler to Ide Armine, Pol Pot to Papa Doc Duvalier, Bush to Blair, heralds an opportunity for those whose hearts/minds are not subjugated by their tyranny to say no on behalf of those whose voice is neutered. In the words of Maya Angelou, but only when we come to it!'
L Richmond, London, UK
The situation certainly isn't right but polititions seem to have a knack for rattling their own sabers. If im not mistaken, wasn't Brown a one man elect? Do one thing, say another...... nothing changes.
richard, hessle, uk
please,,,why are you caucasions in such an outroar,,is it that the land was distributed to 300,000 blacks from 4000 whites or is it you really really care about these black people that have ended up on the British end of luck and are now fully exposed for their blind allegiance to a lie.
chris, new york city,
Bird of a feather flock together, it seems. The AU won't stop him. Basically the international community has decided to wait for Mugabe to die of old age, while his countrymen starve. Pathetic.
Newt, Ohio, United States
Shame on the African leaders for giving Mugabe legitimacy. He wil now abuse his power again, whether he shares power or not.
Hamad Lone, London, England
Does Mugabe represent normative African culture? If not, how do you explain what is going on. If so, can South Africa be far behind?
Bill, Alabama, USA
Its such a shame there isn't oil in Zimbabwe, the US and the UK would have ousted him years ago - in the name of freedom and democracy.
Nick Truman, Iver, UK
I concur with Andre, birds of a feather. Let them all get on with it.
No sactions , No sympathy, No help, it is the way of evolution.
However Mugabe is nearly as legitimate as Brown.
Dave Madley, Alicante, Spain
I have never seen a person as heartless as Mugabe ,eating and dining whilst people back die because they cant afford a plate of sadza which cost 5p.The AU have blood on their hands for allowing a killer like Mugabe amongst them.
bernard, hitchin, uk
Boycott the" World Cup Football 2010" in South-Africa, if it goes on protecting Mugabe.
Peter V., Brussels, Belgium
Africa is a big place, guys. Two dodgy leaders sticking together is hardly surprising. Liberation leaders must be viewed there like winston churchill is here, but how anyone can think that he is still a hero now is a mystery to me. He reminds me of Mao: started out a hero, then went horribly wrong.
Phil, York, UK
Mugabe is President of Zimbabwe because no candidate stood against him and Gordon Brown has the affrontery to criticise, how did he become Prime Minister?. And like Mugabe where people are suffering rocketing food and energy costs etc. Labour blame outside influences for the problems.
Julian, salisbury, UK
Africa doesn't need aid, just free trade, an end to farm subsidies in the west, and an end to supporting bad govts. But it won't happen - it's cheaper to give aid and collude with despots, as it is cheaper and in the west's financial interests. Remember that Africa bankrolled the rise of the west.
Uchenna, NYC, USA
For Chris D, Edinburgh
How on earth can the crisis in Zim be a reason for cancelling the world cup in SA? Zim is a human crisis, a political crisis and indeed a moral crisis for South Africans, but it has not detracted from our ability or conviction to host a successful World Cup.
Ciro, Cape Town, South Africa
The problem is that the white Africans (not colonialists but Africans), both Rhodesian and South African told the World what would happen and they were called racist. I lived there for 24 years and know better and I feel very sorry for the black masses as well as the whites who deserve much better.
B J Deller, Marbella, Spain
Irrefutable proof that Africa must be left to its own devices. I don't see how any non-African country can continue to provide taxpayer subsidized charity to leaders that can't or won't stand up to a dictator.
andre, San Francisco, usa
why don't we impose sanctions on Gabon and any other country that props up this evil regime?
James, london,
Of course Mugabe is welomed and supported at the AU conference - half of the heads of state have the same type of democratic legitimacy as he has! They are hardly likely to support democracy lest they have to follow suit. No more aid to Africa until there is genuine change.
Keith Thompson, Broadstone, Dorset
Their reaction sums it all up. Africa = no hope.
Time to channel our money into something more worthwhile - like our childrens education, proper care for the elderly and the NHS.
Gareth Jones, Dusseldorf, Germany
Please ask Hosni Mubark, to arrest the butcher of Harare and
send him to the hague to face the Int court of human rights. The world knows he has killed more Zimbawaeans then he has had hot dinners
Albert Mphiri, Zomba, Malawi
Do we need any more reasons to Make Poverty History?
Lisa Fenerty, Halifax, NS, Canada
If our lord Jesus Christ made a visit I would hope he would visit the African continent first. There is a need for some serious celestial intervention.
MARK, Guilford, USA
If many of you on this forum are disappointed, so are millions of Africans, the 99% who have to face the gauntlet of daily life under these corrupt leaders. Do not abandon these people, who have no voice, whose leaders don't represent them. African leaders only represent themselves!
Charan Muzaya, London, UK
President of Gabon since 1967 indeed - what a wonderful democracy that must be! Africa understands one language and one language only - that of the big man in charge. All other utterances are intended for a specific audience and cannot be believed.
D J Marais, Centurion, South Africa
Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. What's sad is that world leaders are not confronting this rising tide of post-colonial despotism more strongly. Mugabe should be condemned, and probably should be indicted for permitting atrocities.
Zack, Houston, Texas, USA
Unbelievable, and then people wonder why Africa is lagging behind the rest of the world. Is there any hope ... ?
Siebe, Rotterdam,
A continent ruled by dictators. The AU is a joke and will never be useful unless all the dictators are gone. Haven't these new leadersn learned from the mistakes of their Colonizers? I thought they wanted change and prosperity.
TIco, california, us
I did pull back all my investments from Africa. No way to deal again with one from that continent. They just declared war to humanity. All the continent is OK for murders, they have no repect for human life, they are a disgrace.
Shame on africans and africa.
malcolm, Kingston, Europe
I think must of your respondents don't understand that our modern technical world needs the mineral resources of these African states, and that aid is more than just for helping their people. Why is China so keen to curry favour there. Reality check please.
jimd, Norwich, uk
African leaders true colours are revealed. Some after 50 years of independence still blame everyone except themselves for their plight. Maybe now the world will be less inclined to hand money over to find its way to the leaders, so they can line their own pockets.
Ian, Orpington, Kent
The AU's lack of moral fiber is a tragedy indeed. However, cutting funding to this continent would be a greater one. The world needs to continue to fund educational and health programs to show there is still hope. Educating the children of Africa, will prevent this from happening in the future.
Brian, Seattle, WA, United States
Make no mistake he will be judged.by a higher authority than us.
V Cooper, Yeovil, UK
While the west wrings its hands, China and the east will continue to support the despots while making hay. Of course we should deplore these people, but who is supporting them (paying the bills) to keep then in flash cars and wine? Remove the money and remove the problem.
Malcolm Johnson, Falkirk, Scotland
Brown dares to say Mugabe 'is not elected'?
How was Brown elected?
How about Lisbon referendum?
Brown should show by example that he is not afraid of elections & referendum. Only after that I will applaud to all what he says about Mugabe.
savo, london, uk
China + Russia will still give aid and material to Zim regardless of what the West does. Whether it will help democracy in Zim is another matter. The UK should stop giving our hard-earned money to Africa - end of story. The 2010 World Cup in SA? No - end of story. But it won't happen we're too weak.
Chris D, Edinburgh, Scotland
Zimbabwe no longer has any effective government. There are no policies in place that will ensure the welfare and economic future of it's population. Nationhood has been abandoned. There is just a gang of brutal thugs who run the territory as a private fiefdom. Somalia number 2 has now arrived.
Colin , Carmarthen, UK
Africa is different to Europe. Full stop. Can we use this important conclusion to inform decision making on all related issues and cancel political correctness. Please.
Ed, London, UK
Robert Mugabe needs to look to the West and understand how the power system works. You list your puppets for election (even recycle them for fun - see Bush and Clinton lines of actors) and get away with it. Incredibly, this type of democracy makes people very happy. It's a blind world..
Qaxy F, Micalaca, Romania
These govertments are corrputed also because they were helped and funded by outside corrupted institution in the first place - CIA & the UK. Jini Sebakunzi, Geneva,
I knew it - obviously it isn't Africa's fault - it's always USA and/or UK. Pity and prayers for the few good people there.
Nona, New York City, USA
Why does anyone expect so much out of AU? Remember Idi Amin, and others who now cling to power by terror and atrocities against their own people? Most of current crop of so called "leaders" are not elected by people, and are far more cruel to their own than the white colonial powers ever were!
Peter, Perth,
David Craig, agreed. See how long the corrupt power hungry elites hold on to power when there's no more dollars pounds and euros flowing in. My bet; not for long. Any African countries capable of running without aid from the "white colonialists"? I doubt it. Mbeki would never admit it though.
Steve, London, UK
Now we should turn our headlights on these other so-called leaders. Omar Bongo...ask him how he and his government rigged their elections since he's an expert, and how they all got rich from oil revenue corruption. Nasty little people stick together. Google away folks...Africa has been hijacked.
Paul Freeman, London, England
There are quite a few races in the world that say they cant abide democracy, either for religious grounds or some other feeble excuse.
Africa is run by ex- terrorists, and they are allowed to sponge and filch what they can from the west by the world leaders as long as both get what they want.
Ed. James, lancashire, Great Britain
It's shocking that Gordon Brown and George Bush are intent on imposing more economic sanctions on Zimbabwe. In doing this, Bush and Brown are showing no regard for the people of Zimbabwe who are currently experiencing unimaginable hardships. Sanctions are not effective as tools for regime change.
ambrose, leicester, uk
Thats the last time I donate money to ANY African causes.
Phill, The Wirral, England
Having spent a considerable time in Africa, both living and working, the differing opinions at the AU truly represent the people of Africa as a whole and shows why the continent has so many problems, socially, economically and politically. It will be eternity before Africa can survive without aid.
dave de cabote, bristol, UK
We've got too many problems here to save the world; we can't even save Iraq and Afghanistan.
NW, Houston, Texas
And it is this continent that Gordon Brown continues to send millions of pounds of UK tax payers money to. Another great decision by Gordon...
Kate , London,
If Africans can sit and watch their own continent go to rack and ruin then let them. Just don't expect me to be putting my hand in my pocket anymore (regardless of the situation) to give hand outs to people who don't appreciate it and take it for granted. Let them look after themselves for once!
Shaun Garratty, Rotherham, England
I think we should just walk away...if they don't want our criticism for failing to respect human rights, let them not come to us with a begging bowl in hand. When they're murdering and maiming relatives of MDC members, Bono is nowhere to be seen is he?
Mike Thompson, New York, USA
Want to know the future of Africa - run by rich despot leaders while the continent is colonised by China. Might even see the Chinese army in there within 10 years to help prevent " civil wars " ie popular uprisings. At present China is taking over Africa to secure needed oil and raw material.
Peter, Dublin, Ireland
What a joke, except that the plight of the Zimbabwe people is too sad to laugh at.
David, New Jersey, U.S.A.
OK, they want to stick together. Lets pull all aid to the AU nations and let them sort themselves out - together. They want our money, but don't want to do the one thing that would justify our support. This is sickening. I don't want my taxes wasted on them any more.
DLL, Brussels,
What a corrupt and blind lot they all are. Why do we continue to prop them ALL up with aid???
CA, Manchester, UK
Thats because they all do the same thing!
"Omar Bongo, President of Gabon since 1967."
Dean, Southampton,
Why should anyone in the west bother with Africa. Let them rot until they start to realise that there are basic standards that even they must adhere to. No more charity.
Mike, southport, UK
Mr Bongo, don't call for help any time soon (unless you call world companies that will be happy to give a hand, be sure)
Diouf, Addi-Abbaba,
The same Omar Bongo who, according to French and Swiss media reports, has acquired no less than 33 properties in France alone, worth around 150M euros... I understand he is under investigation by the Paris courts for receiving stolen goods.
R. Goodacre, London,
Mbeki and Bongo have just clinched it for me. If they think he is a hero & he was elected fairly then the rest of us are wasting our time. If Africans decide they want to slaughter each other & that is okay with them then what can we do?. These guys & China should get along like a house on fire
Jason Pearson, Toronto, Canada
They have come to the crossroads and have taken the other route. The thin veneer of emerging nations embracing democracy, rule of law and human rights has peeled away to reveal tribal violence, rule by despot and corruption.
michael c, london, uk
I strongly feel we are making an even bigger rod for our backs by making any comment whatsoever on dreadful Zimbabwe. We should just quietly reduce significantly our subsidies to the country (ie to their corrupt leaders), put a tax on UK companies operating there and get on with our lives.
helen, Norwich,
This kind of attitute by African leaders is what gives Africa a bad name. Let's hope the joint statement at the end of the summit condemns Mugabe. No end justifies throwing 11-month old babies onto concrete floors and breaking their legs, surely! What's the world coming to if people can't see this?
Charan Muzaya, London, UK
pull the aid budgets now and lets spend the money on or own people. Why should we bankroll these people who are content to turn a blind eye to corruption and murder?
Chris Jay, Shropshire, UK
AU leaders are morally bankrupt. The African 'Big Man' leader culture allows Mugabe legitimacy. World opinion offends 'Big Men' such as Bongo - they feel dictated to by 'colonialists'.
If the AU feel like this - let them sort out the African mess. Truth is though they can't - corruption rules!
Jonathan, Farnham, England
well a predictable and thoroughly disappointing response.
If ever one need to be reminded of how low the human race values all the things we proclaim to hold important such as truth and justice I think this situation sums it up nicely.
I feel for those helplessly stuck there.
Dean, Beijing, China
Never again will I put my hand in my pocket for any African disaster. You want us to keep out your business? Gladly!!
David Craig, Glasgow, Scotland
So it's confirmed. Africa has no interest in keeping her house in order. Are the other despots around the odious AU table afraid that if they condemn Mugabe they'll be next?
Cronan, London, United Kingdom
it just sums up africa, if they think Mugabe is a hero that ridiculous. we should just forget about them all then, stop trading and giving aid to the whole continent. if they are so strong, importnat and anti west they do not need our help, support and trade then do they!
Nick Merritt, london, UK
No more aid for Africa until its leaders show some credibility in their commitment to democracy.
Melina, Cambridge, UK
Good luck Africa .
With such leaders the continent will be in ruins within 15 years .
TANGUY YVES, Cognac, france
that just sums up africa if they think mugabe is a hero!!!, we should just forget about them all and stop trading with the continent and cut off the aid if that is how they want to run their continent
Nick Merritt, london, UK
Robert Mugabe is a murderer. If a white man killed so many people as Mugabe did, he would be in jail awaiting trail.
However Mugabe knew what the reaction to his crimes would be, that is, his African friends would stick by him no matter what.
We should hang our heads in shame for allowing this
Colleen, Hickory Creek, Texas USA,
I see what Sara is trying to say, and is entitled to be furstrated. However, I do not believe that simply blaming where the money goes is justitified.
These govertments are corrputed also because they were helped and funded by outside corrupted institution in the first place - CIA & the UK.
Jini Sebakunzi, Geneva, Switzerland
so sad, one questions the validity of the democratic process in Africa as a whole....
jim beam, geneva , switzerland
Absolutely right, Sara if they want to behave like this lets leave them to get on with it, and resolve our own poverty here. I'm charitied out.
john, Adelaide, aus
whats the point of sending millions of pounds to these countries, it does not go where it is needed, it goes straight in the the corrupt elite, keep the money at home
sara, london,
What did the west expect! stop all aid to this corrupt continent now,spend the money on our pensioners after all it's theirs by right,are you listening ZanuLabour!!!
Kenneth O'Boyle, Perth, UK