15 September 2008
Cautious welcome for Zimbabwe power-sharing deal
* Zanu-PF have reached a 'point of weakness'
The Methodist Church and the United Reformed Church have welcomed
news of the power-sharing deal reached between the Zanu-PF and MDC
political parties in Zimbabwe. But they have also expressed concern
about the practical realities of the deal.
Roy Crowder, Methodist Partnership Coordinator for Africa, says,
'Clearly Zanu-PF have reached a point of weakness and cannot
continue to run the country alone, possibly because their funding
has run out and they can no longer afford to control the security
forces. Both parties are strong in different ways. Zanu-PF holds
the reins of institutional power, but the international community
refuses to recognise their status. While the MDC has had no
institutional control, their presence in government could unlock
international aid for the reconstruction of this desperate country.
Much will now depend on which party influences and controls the
Zimbabwean security forces.'
"Many people have taken significant risks to outline a vision for
a new Zimbabwe,' continues Frank Kantor, Secretary for Church and
Society for the United Reformed Church. 'The country desperately
needs courageous leadership to make this vision a reality and to
find ways to balance the requirements of justice with those of
national healing and reconciliation in Zimbabwe. The people of
Zimbabwe are looking for permanent long-term change. It will be
difficult for this power-sharing arrangement to deliver fundamental
reforms unless it addresses this need.'
The Churches are urging people to pray for the situation in
Zimbabwe and have offered the following prayer for use by
individuals, groups and congregations:
Lord of order in chaos,
Bring your peace where there is no peace,
Bring your sustenance where there is no bread,
Bring your wisdom where all is in disorder,
Bring your comfort where there is fear,
Bring your justice where injustice reigns.
Bless the people and politicians of Zimbabwe
and guide them to a just and stable future.
Amen.