Monday, April 21, 2008

The April 15 editorial "Rogue Democrat" called South African President Thabo Mbeki's international policy "perverse and immoral" and blamed him for Zimbabwe's political crisis.

While Mr. Mbeki can be faulted for many of his country's problems, to hold him responsible for Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe's continued hold on power is ridiculous. Zimbabwe's impasse has many causes, including continued support for Mr. Mugabe from his country's security forces and segments of society.

South Africa and its neighbors have reason to deal with Zimbabwe gingerly. They are on the front line of Zimbabwe's meltdown and on the receiving end of millions of economic refugees. The Southern African Development Community is engaged in a delicate balance of quiet diplomacy that is complicated by the bellicose pronouncements of Western nations.

Some openness to alternative interpretations and a more developed appreciation for the challenges facing the region would better serve readers.

IMANI COUNTESS

Senior Director for Public Affairs

TransAfrica Forum

Washington