Global think tank says AU resolution is a beginning

By Violet Gonda
2 July 2008

Sydney Masamvu, a senior analyst for the International Crisis Group has said the resolution by the African Union calling for the parties in Zimbabwe to negotiate is the way forward. He said the very fact that the AU declared there should be a national unity government is admittance that Robert Mugabe has no mandate to carry on and form a government of his own.

But the analyst rejected the idea of a government of national unity and said he believed a transitional authority would be the only way to resolve the crisis. He said a transitional phase should lay the grounds for fresh elections under a new constitution, at an agreed time frame. Masamvu said this transitional authority should be mandated to stabilize the economy and allow Zimbabweans to heal emotionally, physically and mentally.

There is mixed reaction on the outcome of the AU summit, where it had been hoped the continental body would step up pressure on the ZANU PF government. Mugabe did not contest the details of the AU resolution, a move that seems to show he is satisfied with their decision as he maintains the role of President and it delays stronger measures against the regime.

Meanwhile, the MDC announced on Wednesday that it will reject a government of national unity, saying it does not address the problems of Zimbabweans. The party said it remains committed to negotiations that move towards a transitional agreement. The MDC said in a statement; “Our commitment to a negotiated settlement is not about power-sharing or power deals but about democracy, freedom and justice.”

Many observers are extremely skeptical about the AU resolution saying it’s not known how inclusive any negotiations will be, as stakeholders from civil society have always been left out in the past. History has also shown that Mugabe cannot be trusted at the negotiating table and is well known for bullying opponents.

Masamvu said: “It is important that the AU and the UN is involved in the broader mediation for the simple reason that whatever comes out of these negotiations is not a question of it being brought by Zimbabweans alone or by the region, but Zimbabwe needs an international re-engagement… even in a transitional phase.”