Feb. 11, 1990, marked the wondrous day that Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was released from prison. South Africa and the world rejoiced at seeing Mandela free after 27 years of imprisonment, free to grace his fellow comrades, nation, and global society with what commonly became recognized as "Madiba Magic." President Mandela had an aura about him that spoke of promise and convinced one of a bright future and hope for the South African nation.
On Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2009, Morgan Tsvangirai was sworn in as prime minister of Zimbabwe by President Robert Mugabe. One must question if this 11th of February, 2009, in Zimbabwe is to be considered as promising as the 11th of February, 1990.
Tsvangirai is a champion of the people and has propelled the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) in a manner that has remained true to the cry of the oppressed and disenfranchised people of Zimbabwe. But as I reflect on this moment I am skeptical of the way change has presented itself. I believe that a peaceful and diplomatic path has been chosen to appeal to the plight of the people, who have been facing dire circumstances. It must be considered that Robert Mugabe's actions are self-serving, and one should wonder as to the authenticity of this shared power scenario.
The people of Zimbabwe have faced human rights abuses and atrocities that would make one shudder. The militant acts of the Zimbabwe African National Union
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