Zimbabwe's New Cabinet

Is another blow for any glimmer of democracy in Zimbabwe about to be shattered. The latest news is that despite power sharing agreements made on September 15 2008 Mugabe is preparing to devise a new cabinet. According to local media he has fired about 12 ministers from the current cabinet but is this a sign he is about to set up a new cabinet without the involvement of Movement for Democratic Change (MDC)? That is not necessarily the case however the Presidents press secretary has been quoted as saying: "It is not my place to announce appointments or disappointments of an executive nature. What I can tell you though is that President Mugabe has already started preparing an administration. He is taking steps towards an early realisation of the formation of a new Government as per the mandate given to him by all three parties to the dialogue."

Indications by MDS and their leaders is that they are unhappy with the situation as all the key posts would still be held by Zanu PF. Mr Tsvangirai in the new deal would become Prime Minister - leaving Mugabe as President but with less powers. The Prime Minister would take on day to day control of the government. However MDC are holding out for control of the Ministry of Home affairs. I wonder though if Mr Tsvangirai by holding up this whole process is perhaps adding to the plight of the people?

Whilst the bickering continues, the starvation, cholera and lack of hope for the regular people of Zimbabwe continues. Only time will tell if Mugabe is serious about setting up a new cabinet and power sharing one thing is clear change is needed urgently.