Troika resolution: A double-edged sword

Political analyst Alexander Rusero said Mugabe had nothing to lose because he will retain his position in the period leading to elections, but Zanu PF officials who were looking for a post- Mugabe era would be devastated by the Sadc decision.

Mugabe, who in the past has repeatedly said he wanted elections this year, was dealt a blow by the regional bloc when it ordered the full implementation of reforms before elections were held. Earlier, Mugabe had dispatched high-powered delegations throughout the region to garner support for his position ahead of the summit held in Luanda, Angola last Friday.