Zimbabwe’s problems stem largely from a ruthless colonial legacy

Dear Editor,
On May 8 in SN Mr D Ramprakash wrote a letter under the caption ‘Guyanese should be wary of Western vilification of “Third World” leaders.’

In that letter Ramprakash did what honest intellectuals are expected to do through their writings, ie inform/educate the public in a lucid way, especially the many unlearned observers who are gullible and prone to believe all kinds of propaganda, so they will have a better understanding of and form a more accurate judgment on issues, events and topics of national and international importance.

I have been in many discussions concerning Robert Mugabe and the recent elections in Zimbabwe, and there is hardly ever any sympathy for him. I myself have been critical of him. I still don’t make him out to be an angel even though I’m aware of the role he played in the struggle to liberate Zimbabwe from British grip and Ian Smith’s oppressive role. Yet for all his failings and faults, there are reasons why one can empathize with him, as Bishop Tutu has done (although not in any way excusing his atrocities on his own people.)