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Save Zimbabwe demand voice in Mbeki mediation talks
Edward Marange, Nehanda Radio
May 22, 2007

http://www.nehandaradio.com/savezimdemand220507.html

A coalition of civic groups under the Save Zimbabwe Campaign umbrella have demanded inclusion in mediation efforts by South African President Thabo Mbeki who is trying to broker a compromise between the ruling Zanu PF party and the opposition MDC.

Save Zimbabwe officials told Nehanda Radio they will present their own plans to members of the regional and international community next week. A document will be released titled: 'The Save Zimbabwe Campaign Position on Dialogue.'

It becomes the second high profile proposal after Zimbabwean academics in the United Kingdom calling themselves the Peoples Policy Committee (PPC) came up with their own proposals.

Skepticism has greeted efforts by Mbeki to broker some kind of exit package for Mugabe who analysts believe is the major stumbling block to achieving prosperity in the country. Others have suggested the 83 year old leader needs assurances he will not be prosecuted for crimes against humanity as an incentive for him to relinquish power.

MDC president Morgan Tsvangirai also stirred a hornet's nest when he suggested he might consider immunity for Mugabe if it would bring peace to Zimbabwe. Victims of Mugabe's abuse however cried foul and said the opposition leader should not have made the remarks. Others did see the logic in the offer and stood by him. SADC leaders last month tasked Mbeki to end the crisis rocking his neighbour. It's the secrecy in the talks that has however frustrated many Zimbabweans into believing the process is a waste of time.

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