An informational site on the real realities about we, the proud Kalanga kingdom
Tuesday 27 March 2012
Forget about Mugabe stepping down says Biti
His Excellency relaxing in comfort
Robert Mugabe “will never step down”, Finance Minister
has suggested, creating an image of a lonely man with few interests
outside politics, and a determination to cling to power to the bitter
end.Biti told the UK-based Independent newspaper that he felt “pity” for the 88-year-old President, who is criticised for alleged human rights abuses and the slow pace of democratic reform
“After 32 years in power, he knows nothing else,” Biti said.
“I know the joy of walking into a supermarket, watching the Black Rhinos
or going to church without anyone raising a furore. He does not know
there is a beautiful life outside politics. He would never want to
retire. I think he will never step down.”
Biti also launched a spirited defence of his MDC-T party’s record in government.
Human rights groups have expressed concern that Mugabe’s party plans to use the proceeds from diamond mines to fund violence and intimidation in upcoming elections – accusations denied by Zanu PF.
Biti said the country urgently needed to put in place structures – such as a state diamond exploration company – to ensure that “those diamonds sweat for us and not for thieves and middlemen”.
Under the deal that followed the disputed elections in 2008, Zimbabwe is expected to move towards fair elections.
But the process of writing a
new constitution has become mired in infighting. President Mugabe has
suggested he will call elections with or without a new constitution.
Yes Biti you can have your joy, let Bob have his politics, simply.
“After 32 years in power, he knows nothing else,” Biti said.
“I know the joy of walking into a supermarket, watching the Black Rhinos or going to church without anyone raising a furore. He does not know there is a beautiful life outside politics. He would never want to retire. I think he will never step down.”
Biti also launched a spirited defence of his MDC-T party’s record in government.
Human rights groups have expressed concern that Mugabe’s party plans to use the proceeds from diamond mines to fund violence and intimidation in upcoming elections – accusations denied by Zanu PF.
Biti said the country urgently needed to put in place structures – such as a state diamond exploration company – to ensure that “those diamonds sweat for us and not for thieves and middlemen”.
Under the deal that followed the disputed elections in 2008, Zimbabwe is expected to move towards fair elections.
But the process of writing a new constitution has become mired in infighting. President Mugabe has suggested he will call elections with or without a new constitution.