This morning, a very unhappy looking Robert Mugabe swore Morgan Tsvangirai into the office of Prime Minister of Zimbabwe in line with the unity government agreement between ZANU PF and the Movement for Democratic Change.

“I will well and truly serve Zimbabwe in the office of prime minister,” Tsvangirai said as he took his oath of office from Mugabe under a white tent on the lawn of the presidential mansion.

Whilst today is indeed a momentous date in Zimbabwean politics, it will be an uphill task for Tsvangirai to effect any lasting change in that country - at least, not while Mugabe remains at the helm.

One thing that should be seriously considered is a constitutional amendment that limits the tenure of office of any one man as President (or Prime Minister, for that matter) to just two terms - similar to the limits within the American constitution,

This will allow a regular change in politicians, thereby negating this “President for life” and “only God can remove me” rubbish that Mugabe peddles.

No man has the right to rule others until death - especially when the ruler is so inept that the country pays the price. Perhaps Mugabe meant that he will rule other until THEIR death…

I received quite a few emails for my caption on my main page for this photograph of Tsvangirai being sworn in. Many saw the funny side, but others recognised the truth in the few words.

“Morgan Tsavangirai being sworn in - instead of being sworn at…”

But the question which will only be answered by the passing of time is: Will Tsvangirai be allowed to fulfil the functions of Prime Minister, or will he find each and every move he makes being blocked and parried by Mugabe and his cohorts?

As the present agreement states that various advents and decisions have to be made jointly by Mugabe and Tsvangirai - and given the history between the two, are we in for more lengthy negotiations which will result in either Mugabe having his own way, or a permanent stalemate?

The need for the two men to work together is paramount - but I do not see Mugabe playing the game. Well, perhaps not Mugabe himself, but definitely the hierarchy of ZANU PF, who would rather not have the presence of the MDC in government.

Whether this is because they are too used to having their own way because of little or no opposition, or if they are worried that their illegal activities in the past 29 years will find them facing criminal charges, I suppose we will never know.

The Gukurahundi, Operation Murbatsvina, the abduction, torture and murder of Zimbabweans - the list is endless.

The MDC have entered into the unity government with their eyes wide open, and all I can hope for is that they remain vigilant, keep themselves alert and be aware of the volatile and violent nature of their agreement partners, ZANU PF.

I look forward to the unity government actually working - rather than failing - as success can only lead to a better standard of living for all Zimbabweans - after the required rebuilding is complete, of course.

Above all else, then all Zimbabweans look forward to the country being accepted back into the real world.

Robb WJ Ellis
The Bearded Man