Computers for Zimbabwe’s poor

President Mugabe’s new campaign tactics reek of nothing short of clutching at straws. The Iron Man of one of Africa’s most impoverished nations, has resorted to donating computers to supporters in each of the provinces where he’s campaigning in.

I must say that in a country where the inflation rate has reached dire proportions, the last thing these people need are computers.

Well, lets admit that this whole charade stinks. Vote-buying has been the order of the day in the country; indeed this isn’t a strange phenomenon in most African nations. And his opposers are up in arms - the war drums have been sounded.

Simba Makoni and Morgan Tsvangirai are proving to be a thorn in the veteran’s flesh, but the scales are not tipping yet. Despite the fact that Makoni, a fornmer ZANU PF loyalist is now the incumbent's biggest threat, Mugabe still seems to have his cards intact. He is ready to play - and play thick and fast.

Indeed, having ruled the state for 5 consecutive terms, one can imagine how formidable Monsieur Mugabe will be yet again in the upcoming elections.

But back to the issue at hand: if Mugabe wants to extend a “helping” hand to his comrades, I suggest that he start with restoring Zimbabwe’s former status of being “Africa’s bread basket.” Because computers will not work in a country that is being harangued by shortages of food, fuel, water and a strong currency.

Mugabe needs to remember that his policies and hardline tactics have driven his country deep in the bogging mire, and a lot needs to be done to pull it out of this cess hole it finds itself in.

So please, quit the shenanigans and give the people something more valuable – a chance at a better life.

Zimbabweans deserve that.