..and South Africa turns its back.
I have written about the "mercenaries" incarcerated in Zimbabwe before.
This groupof 70 mercenaries was arrested in Harare about 6 months ago as they landed to pick up some arms they had ordered. They have been accused of planning a coup in Equatorial Guinea, an oil rich country with a ruthless, corrupt and backward government. We do not know all the facts but the following emerged/did not emerge, after the arrest:
* Said group alleged that they were heading to the Congo to protect diamond mines.
* There is no evidence as yet that the group planned any coup in Equatorial Guinea, or anywhere for that matter.
* The group were obviously duped by some corrupt Zimbabweans who wanted the loot, the glory and the joy of trapping a group from South Africa. Forgive me if I say that Zimbabweans are (as is Mugabe), a bunch of conniving bastards; a reflection of all that is wrong today in Africa! Don't join Sudan in lying. You were there first!
* Dr Zuma, the Minister of Foreign affairs in South Africa, judged and condemned the men before all the facts were known.
* The RSA government and its judiciary continually ignores the fact that many of these men are South African citizens.
* The RSA government is running around like a bunch of constipated rats worrying about two alleged terrorists (South African), who have been arrested in Pakistan. Much concern, much worry, much ado about nothing.
* The group is, as of a judgement handed down today, rejected by the South African government and being thrown to the wolves.
What a wonderful example to everyone. What a great relief it is to know (sic), that the South African man, or woman, on his travels, can expect no help from his/her Embassy, Dr Zuma, or little Sakkie who mans the switchboard. We're on our own boys, so be careful where you go.
The Zimbabwe mercenary group deserves support and diplomatic assistance. They should be able to feel that their country is behind them.
Can we read anything into the fact that President Mbeki recently met with Mr Nguema, the "King" of Equatorial Guinea recently. The Mail & Guardian called him the "devil". Perhaps we're short of oil.
Sorry, guys in Chikuruba prison, it seems we ARE short of oil.
We're getting more like the Yanks every day. Devious, cunning and greedy.