A strange sort of anniversary, but an anniversary nonetheless: it is 31 years, to
the day, since Robert Mugabe took power in Zimbabwe, or Rhodesia as it was still called. In which case, here is The Spectator’s leading article from the time. It is, for the large part, a good
demonstration of the benefits conferred by hindsight. But its caginess about Mugabe is apparent in such observations as, “It is up to Mr Mugabe whether he leads his country into yet another
black tyranny, corrupt and inefficient, or whether he builds on what has already been built.” Mugabe, it seems, made his mind up on that one some time ago.
Off the the Rhodesian hook, The Spectator, 8 March 1980
Mr Mugabe’s victory in the Rhodesian elections is overwhelming. He has utterly overwhelmed Bishop Muzorewa; Mr Joshua Nkomo’s wing of the Patriotic Front is now seen to be very much a minority, Matabele faction lacking any broad appeal; and the other African groupings are routed.
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