2008 Woodie Awards
Faculty debate future of Zimbabwe after runoff elections
Editor-In- Chief
Issue date: 7/9/08 Section: Campus
The likelihood of a unity government akin to the one formed in Kenya after December elections resulted in violence is not a real option for Zimbabwe, according to Herbst.
"The MDC has denied there are any talks, and these things usually don't work," he said.
The defeat of the opposition, in Herbst's opinion, is a reflection of Tsvangirai's weakness.
"He was never the most impressive of leaders," Herbst said. "The reason the region has been reluctant to question Mugabe is because the opposition is weak … (Tsvangirai's party) has depended way too much on external support."
Ultimately, Herbst said Mugabe will remain in power until he voluntarily steps down or dies.
"It's unlikely he'll be forced out of power," he said.
Saine is more optimistic about the future of the country.
"I am hopeful that Zimbabweans will pull themselves out of this mess," Saine said. "At this juncture, I don't think they could do any worse. And it may take Zimbabwe time to realign its economy and restore international confidence … but I'm hopeful, following Mugabe's demise or some rapprochement in the end."
However, Saine's optimism is a result of his recognition of the dire reality of the situation.
"It's such a major crisis-politically, economically-something has to give," he said.
"The MDC has denied there are any talks, and these things usually don't work," he said.
The defeat of the opposition, in Herbst's opinion, is a reflection of Tsvangirai's weakness.
"He was never the most impressive of leaders," Herbst said. "The reason the region has been reluctant to question Mugabe is because the opposition is weak … (Tsvangirai's party) has depended way too much on external support."
Ultimately, Herbst said Mugabe will remain in power until he voluntarily steps down or dies.
"It's unlikely he'll be forced out of power," he said.
Saine is more optimistic about the future of the country.
"I am hopeful that Zimbabweans will pull themselves out of this mess," Saine said. "At this juncture, I don't think they could do any worse. And it may take Zimbabwe time to realign its economy and restore international confidence … but I'm hopeful, following Mugabe's demise or some rapprochement in the end."
However, Saine's optimism is a result of his recognition of the dire reality of the situation.
"It's such a major crisis-politically, economically-something has to give," he said.
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