This is an article sent by John Simpson, who was at our church earlier in the year and has spoken at Mens Forum.

 

ZIMBABWE — HOUSE OF HORROR
by John Simpson

It came as no surprise to hear that the Zimbabwean government have refused to accept the democratic will of the people. This elite group comprised of ministers, generals, police chiefs and many judges who enjoy a fabulous lifestyle have accumulated riches beyond belief. They must have been horrified to discover that despite all the blatant vote rigging, the sheer number of people wanting change far outweighed their efforts to deceive. President Mbeki of South Africa, a close friend of Mr Mugabe stressed there was 'no crisis' in Zimbabwe. Tell that to brave Zimbabweans across the country who voted for change. A wave of fear is sweeping across the country. None are being spared : neither men , women nor children where beatings by Mugabe's 'rent a mob' are common place. Tell that to poor people who queued almost 5 hours at their local Grain Marketing Board Depot
whilst every single bag of this staple food was loaded onto army trucks. Mbeki, rejected by his own party the ANC, will leave behind a shameful legacy.

The euphoria following the results was short lived and the country is now in limbo. My mobile has been working overtime with frightened, angry text messages from friends some of which are listed below giving an insight into their feelings;

'Am in town and there is a heavy military presence mostly new recruits.' I felt the dictator's iron hand. As soon as I had finished sending the last text message, I got picked up by the young heavily armed militia and detained for no reason. I have just been released and am now on my way home.'

'We are anxiously waiting news. We are living in fear this side. The monster is so desperate.'

However, there is some better news. An exciting project on behalf of the artists is taking shape. Also, Lesley Charlton, minister of Kingston upon Thames URC, emailed me the other day. Quote - 'John, we are making Zimbabwe our target for Commitment for life starting this harvest. I wonder whether you could be part of that?' Excellent news - let's hope it spreads! The
May edition of the URC Reform magazine will feature St Andrew's support for Silveira House.

Finally, the latest text message sums up the situation in Zimbabwe: 'Things are so hard. Pray for us - we are suffering.'