Today, Zimbabwe will hold an election with a single candidate. Robert Mugabe, who was defeated by Morgan Tsvangirai in the country's March election, will attempt to hold on to power through violence and intimidation and a sham 'run off' election while the world watches.
Mugabe, in his nearly 30 year rule, has seen the devolution of his once prosperous nation into a country replete with poverty and violence, where the life expectancy is the lowest of any nation on earth. The mismanagement of the country's economy has lead to hyperinflation and severe food shortages. Although the literacy rate of adults in Zimbabwe is over 90%, unemployment is around 80%. It's estimated that 4 million Zimbabweans are displaced, either internally or in neighboring countries due to the economic crisis and the violent and repressive Mugabe government.
Senator Kerry took to the floor of the Senate yesterday to urge the US and the international community to uphold the democratic process and the will of the people of Zimbabwe, and condemn the theft of the March election.
Video Credit: C-SPAN
In April, Sen. Kerry introduced a resolution to ask the Senate to 'urge President Robert Mugabe to accept the results of Zimbabwe's elections and effect a peaceful democratic transition.' But the resolution has not stopped Mugabe, and although it has helped bring attention to the threat to democracy in Zimbabwe, the world hasn't done enough to force Mugabe to transition the country's leadership to MDC leader Morgan Tsvangirai, the legitimate winner of the election. Tsvangari has removed himself from tomorrow's election to protect the lives of his supporters, who have been savagely attacked by the Mugabe regime.
Video Credit: CBS
If America is truly intent on promoting democracy, we must support the attempt by Zimbabweans to hold free and fair elections. If we're to regain our moral authority we must stand with them and urge the international community to uphold the will of the people.
Comments (3)
Posted by beachmom | June 28, 2008 1:58 PM
Great post, Faith. I thought it was quite interesting that John Kerry criticized Mbeki, president of South Africa. I'm not a fan of Mbeki, and a quick glance through his history, you can see why, especially his embracing bizarre ideas on HIV/AIDS:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thabo_Mbeki#AIDS
His history re: Zimbabwe is nothing to be proud of either.
Posted by ray of light | June 28, 2008 2:58 PM
This is a great post, Faith. I know I get so swamped at work that I didn't realize all that JK had done before the recent headlines.
Beachmom, thank you for that link to Mbeki. Saying you're not a fan is an understatement. I am 'not a fan' either.
All of this proves that it takes someone like John Kerry who has a rich understanding of history, geography, and current events to be representing our country in the Senate.
Thanks again, Faith for this great article!
Posted by Karen v.H. | June 28, 2008 3:18 PM
Thanks for bringing this to our attention! A very informative post and it's great to see the video.