“African governments begin to acknowledge that Zimbabwe is in chaos”

in Zimbabwe”.
Minister Sikatana’s acknowledgement of the problems in Zimbabwe is one of the frankest, most upfront so far by any political leader in southern Africa since Zimbabwean President Mugabe first began his despotic ways in 1999.
President Mbeki, now more than ever, needs to break his curious silence on the deteriorating political and economic situation in Zimbabwe or face further ridicule in this regard.
The Democratic Alliance wholeheartedly agrees with the following key assessments by Minister Sikatana reported in the media:
• that the issue of the confiscation of white-owned farms was key in averting greater catastrophe in Zimbabwe, exacerbated by flooding and droughts; and,
• that SADC states had a responsibility to make Zimbabwean President Mugabe realise that he needs to enter into dialogue.
Indications from Lusaka diplomats confirm the DA’s long held suspicion that the government’s of our neighbouring countries look to the South African government for leadership in dealing with the Zimbabwean crisis and, in particular, with President Mugabe’s hostility towards the political opposition and the press in his country.
The loyalty that some SADC members, including South Africa, might still feel towards their erstwhile comrade-in-arms, President Mugabe, is completely misplaced when more than a quarter of Zimbabweans have had to flee their country to escape the oppressive regime and economic situation in their country. This goes against the “African Renaissance” vision.
The DA looks forward to Zambia’s reign as chairing member-country for the 12 month period, beginning in August of this year. If Minister Sikatana’s comments are anything to go by, then the SADC may at long last be tackling the bull by the horns when it comes to Zimbabwe