Monday 19th March
Like everyone out there, I was appalled, angry,saddened by the events back in Zinbabwe. I bought the the Independent newspaper and i had to remove the front page which showed the horrifc injuries inflicted on Nelson Chamisa the MDC spokesman.
I promised myself yesterday that l will do something, even a little thing, but something. I started by posting my opinion on the BBC 'have your say' then sent a petition email to the government. I also unssuccessfully tried to send feedback to the Editor of the Herald newspaper - surprise surprise there was something wrong with the submit form.
After work, I walked to the London MDC branch to attend a meeting. I braved the icy conditions and wet weather. It was interesting to see that there were people there from all works of life (white, old, young etc) It was a confirmation that this crisis affects everyone regardless of ethnicity. I felt fired-up after the meeting, I was also humbled about the MDC's commitment to encourage non-violence. Although l doubted that this commitment does anything to the youths who are frustrated and are subject to such provocation that they will use violence.
Mysterious guy
At the meeting there was also an articulate guy who came across as thoughtful and threw in interesting angles to the debate. I was very impressed because l felt that these are the kind of people we will need to build-up our country.
Fear
On my way to the London MDC meeting, I had a long telephone conversation with someone very close to me in Zim, he was discouraging me to do anything, he kept wanting to change subject each time l was ranting about mugabe. it struck me then, my contact can not even say Mugabe, he is afraid that someone might hear him and report him to the Zanu PF Militia. Can you imagine a country where you feel unsafe if you mention the name of a politician? How totally bizzare.
I am absolutely determined to do something...stay tuned.
