The latest news form Zimbabwe is that the government is banning all aid operations and field work by aid groups and non-governmental organizations. Large portions of the population depend on aid to survive. This happens after the police detained a group of US and UK diplomats for several hours as they investigated political violence there.
Current facts:
- Inflation: 165,000.
- Unemployment: 80%.
- Life expectancy: men 37 years, women 34 years.
The key to understand Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe, is the 1970s guerrilla war where he made his name.
At the time, he was seen as a revolutionary hero, fighting white minority rule for the freedom of his people - this is why many African leaders remain reluctant to criticize him.
Since Zimbabwe's independence, most of the world has moved on - but his outlook remains the same. The heroic socialist forces of Zanu-PF, are still fighting the twin evils of capitalism and colonialism.
Any critics are dismissed as "traitors and sell-outs" - a throwback to the guerrilla war, when such labels could be a death sentence.
The economy has effectively collapsed. The recent elections on March 29th forced Mugabe to consider a run of election on June 27.
His response was quick and violent. Opposition leaders are being persecuted, killed and disappeared. Many had to go into exile.
Political views opposing Mugabe can not be made in public. Many people in Zimbabwe are now to scared to vote again.
Zimbabwe has been in the past one of the most prosperous and progressive African nations. It is a country of exceptional beauty and exceptional people.
His speech at the current UN meeting in Rome reflects no changes in rhetoric or policy. He is leading Zimbabwe indeed, he is leading Zimbabwe straight to hell.
