Opinion | Editorials
No point in having presidential run-off
Regardless of how the public votes, Mugabe is bent on retaining his hold on power.
- Gulf News
- Published: 00:14 June 22, 2008
Only now, less than seven days before the presidential run-off elections in Zimbabwe, are some African leaders showing concern over what is taking place in that country.
Reports of violence and intimidation in Zimbabwe are not new; such activities have become commonplace in the impoverished country. Also not new is withholding food aid to those in need unless they are supporters of the ruling Zanu-PF party of President Robert Mugabe.
What is new is the increased violence and intimidation by supporters of Mugabe, according to UN observers, who claim murder of Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) supporters has taken place, as well as driving people off their land so they can no longer vote because of absence from their homes.
With the western media not being allowed access to the country, it is difficult to determine the truth, but when Zimbabwean officials give outright denials of events that have been seen by eyewitnesses it is obvious the truth is being distorted for Mugabe's benefit.
It is becoming increasingly apparent that the run-off election next Friday, regardless of how the public votes, will be 'won' by Mugabe and he will retain his hold on power. He has said as much many times.
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