Response to Ronald Wesso's article on Zimbabwe

There is a lot is to be desired as far as the Zimbabwe crisis is concerned. Factual comment has been put forward, indicating the sufferings that the people of Zimbabwe are enduring. It has been pointed out that action needs to be taken by the neighbours of Zimbabwe, the leaders of SADC, particularly by our president, President Mbeki.

Relating to the position taken by the South African government, the question is: to what extent should the government interfere with the issues of Zimbabwe? To what extent will this government be undermining the sovereignty of Zimbabwe?

The solution to the Zimbabean problem lies with the people of Zimbabwe. Those outside can provide assistance such as free and fair elections and stability during transition.

I am firmly of the view that it is unacceptable to suggest that there is power sharing amongst the elite. Many are to some extent satisfied with the actions of our governments. Dialogue is key in resolving the Zimbabwe crises, as opposed to the US kind of military infiltration and overthrow of governments. Africa still faces grave problems of division along ethnic, religious, cultural and traditional lines. To invade Zimbabwe would be fuelling already existing potentials for conflict.

Africa has suffered many conflicts. Let us give dialogue a chance and respect the work our leaders are doing. Let us find some other creative ways of addressing the problem, and not just utter solutionless comments that may have far reaching consequences.

Christopher Dyani, South Africa