IT'S BEEN a year since the launch of Zimbabwe's national unity government, and President Robert Mugabe is celebrating -- his own birthday, that is. Once again the strongman who liberated and then ruined what was one of Africa's richest countries has spent a huge sum -- $500,000 -- celebrating himself, this time in a 12-hour concert broadcast live on state television Friday. Mr. Mugabe is now 86; he was recently named by his party as leader for another five years. He has refused to implement any of the reforms promised in the unity accord, and he has continued to arrest and harass his opponents. He has made a mockery of those African nations, led by South Africa, who promoted the coalition government.
So as ever in Zimbabwe's prolonged agony, the question is, will South Africa and other neighbors finally be shamed into a different approach. There is at least some reason to be hopeful.
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