Should it disregard the fact that the Mugabe regime has every intention of rigging the elections, as it has done in the past, in order to prevent a de facto one-party state? Or should it boycotting protest at the patently uneven playing field and, by default, allow Zanu (PF) a monopoly in both houses of parliament?
By participating and being allowed to win a few seats, as has been the case in the past, the MDC will at least ensure that the opposition has something of a voice in parliament.
But is it worth doing this, when such participation will legitimize the flawed process and make it more difficult for the international community to condemn the polls as fraudulent – thus enabling the Zanu (PF) regime to continue.
The whole electoral process falls far short of the SADC protocols on elections.Zanu (PF) has already stated that it will not allow independent, international observers – only those from friendly nations. Neither will it allow western foreign journalists – only those from friendly nations.
If Zanu (PF) was serious about holding free and fair elections, surely it would be in its interest to invite the doubting Thomas observers in order to demonstrate the fairness of the poll? The fact that it consistently refuses to do so can surely only mean that there is something to hide. In that case, taking part in the elections is a futile exercise.
So should the MDC keep its foot in the door? Or should it slam the door firmly?
They are damned if they do and damned if they don’t.
This impossible situation has been compounded even further by the tragic failure of the two MDCs to reach agreement about reunification in the face of the common enemy.
If the MDC (Tsvangirai) does boycott the elections, Mugabe will allow the MDC (Mutambara) to win some seats – thus giving them a voice and a platform, while excluding the larger and more popular formation.This, obviously, is Mugabe’s preferred scenario.
The collapse of the economy has produced many individuals who have cast aside all morality and will sup with the devil in exchange for a roof over their heads and school fees for their children.
Word for Today:
O God, do not keep silent; be not quiet, O God, be not still. See how your enemies are astir, how your foes raise their heads. With cunning they conspire against your people; they plot against those you cherish…may they perish in disgrace. Let them know that you, whose name is the Lord-that you alone are the most high over all the earth.-Psalm 83.