It's a good sign for the promotion of democracy in Zimbabwe if, as the writer claims, one of the fringe political parties has even gone to the extent of challenging the negotiations in the Pretoria and Harare High Courts.

Political parties, whatever they may be, must promote the active involvement of the civil society in the ongoing talks on fundamental issues. Meaningful democracy works only when politicians act under the constant vigilance of the civil society in a framework where, amongst other things, the judiciary is impartial, the press is free and a democratically elected government is in power. The latter point is not in place, there is broad censorship imposed by dictator Mugabe, the reign of terror is still around while a host of other points plead for vigilance.

One can therefore understand the suspicion in the minds of representatives of groups that actively combat the illegitimate hold on power by murderous Mugabe.

Millions of Zimbabweans want Mugabe to go. They cannot be wrong? God-annoited Mugabe versus voice of God expressed by the majority? The talks must conclude with a clean message. No more murderers at the helm of the country.

Prem is dead on right. It is my belief that Mugabe, et al, are holding on to power now simply out of fear of being tried for crimes against humanity, of which they are most assuredly guilty. Massive kudos to Botswana for breaking the heinous tradition of never taking any actions or speaking out forcefully against another African nation; it is hoped that others will follow. This is an attitude of a mature, trustworthy nation. Bravissimo Botswana!