Talking points

The BBC is reporting today that negotiations on a power sharing deal in Zimbabwe are being adjourned, though not abandoned. According to the original agreement, the talks must reach an agreement by the end of this week.

I've said before that these talks were too timid. Such a response to the terror and chaos Mugabe has imposed on Zimbabwe is irresponsible and proving ineffective. Mugabe will not become a "figurehead"; more importantly, the generals who have become rich and powerful during his rule will not cease to cast long shadows on the country's development even if he does. Zimbabwe requires a lot of help and even if Tsvangirai is handed the reins, the country will need a vast and coordinated international effort to stem any further decline.

It would be encouraging to see a pro-active response to an African crisis that does not involve peacekeepers. Though Mbeki does not offer much hope as an impartial mediator, he will likely keep violence from returning. He will not be able to fully dispel Mugabe (though I doubt anyone would) but it is in his interest to see Tsvangirai in power. If he can get Mugabe on lesser footing, Western aid will sink into Zimbabwe likely stopping the flow of refugees and homeless into South Africa. This, and the resultant economic upswing, would have political benefits for him at home.

It may not be ideal but if Mugabe can be convinced or canoodled into any lesser role, the result will be an improvement. Let's hope that Mbeki can deliver.