Don't Hold Your Breath For Zim Talks

While news of the agreement has been welcomed in many capitals and the mediator, President Thabo Mbeki showered with praise for his efforts, I believe nothing substantive will result from the talks and the people of Zimbabwe will be the biggest losers in this process.

Many Zimbabweans do not believe Mugabe was sincere when he signed the agreement, setting the agenda for talks in Harare. The man still ridiculed his opposition as puppets of the West and went even further to claim the presidency he won by hook and crook was legitimate. His demeanour and obvious arrogance were of a man who was not in the mood to share power, let alone honour his agreement. We need not go into how Mugabe has shown contempt for the talks by sending junior members of his party to negotiate on his behalf. Had the man been serious he would have sent negotiators from his inner circle to negotiate on his behalf.