In startling developments in Zimbabwe’s political circles, the ruling ZANU PF party has suddenly made a u-turn, embarking on a campaign to lure the opposition party, MDC to the table contrary to the period before the June 27 ‘one-man’ presidential election run-off.

After Robert Mugabe was quickly sworn in after what the state media claimed, ‘A Landslide Victory’ (he competed alone), the 84 year-old leader’s speech at the inauguration ceremony was centered on ‘uniting with the opposition.’

Mugabe indicated the past is the past and leaders should now work together towards the development of the country. He emphasised his party is now ready for dialogue with the MDC.

From the day Mugabe made that speech, his aides also started to speak with the same tone. These include the vocal and controversial media-addicted ministers Bright Matonga, Patrick Chinamasa, Sikhanyiso Ndlovu and Mugabe’s spokesperson, George Charamba.

Currently, on the sole broadcaster, ZTV, part of Mugabe’s inauguration speech (which he centered on unity with the opposition) is constantly aired.

Tsvangirai is reported to have rejected plans of a unity government and emphasises there will not be any talks until violence against his supporters end.

A political analyst said however, this is an indication that Mugabe has succumbed to regional and international pressure in which many leaders are either calling for his departure or a power sharing deal with opposition leader, Morgan Tsvangirai.

“It seems our president is fast running out of friends. Take for example, the Botswana, Zambian and Mozambican leaders. They are no longer on Mugabe’s side.”

“In the SADC region, his main hope is left on Mbeki,” he said.

Reports by the ZTV on the recently held AU Summit in Egypt also show how ZANU PF is desperate to settle issues with the MDC.

In a nutshell, state television said the government has been impressed by the AU’s decision of accepting Mugabe as a legitimate leader whilst the union strongly emphasised Mugabe must negotiate with the opposition so as to ease political tension.

No harsh words came from fellow African statesman, except direct and negative comments on Mugabe especially from the Kenyan and Nigerian leaders.

Odinga took office through a power-sharing agreement only after an outbreak of violence that killed at least 1,500 people.

“In as much as many people would want change- to see Tsvangirai ruling the country, let’s face the truth.”

“It is very possible that we might see a power sharing deal being made in Zimbabwe. It is the only way forward because Mugabe has strongly shown he will do anything to stay in power,” added the analyst.

This was a surprise to many citizens who were used to the state mouthpiece lambasting the opposition.

Britain and the US have recently called for more sanctions on Mugabe and his aides. The International Cricket Council is also to settle the issue of sidelining the Zimbabwean Cricket team, after South Africa, UK and Wales indicated they don’t want to share the same field.

---

Share This Story On:

Average user rating

Display 1 of 1 comments