Analysis: Squatters fail vote test

The country is sliding into anarchy

By Grant Ferrett in Harare

The threat of violence has been increasing ever since government supporters began occupying white-owned farms nearly two months ago.

The invasions and the potentially-deadly consequences were foreshadowed by President Mugabe in a television interview within days of the rejection of a government-backed draft constitution in a national referendum.

Grabbing land is unlikely to be a vote winner

Mr Mugabe said the people were angry over land.

If we let them vent their anger, he said, they will invade farms and then the farmers will come to us for protection.

The president has been unwavering in his support of the War Veteran's Association who have organised the invasions.

Land reform

That the police have done nothing to prevent widespread and repeated violations of the law has been greeted by dismay by many Zimbabweans.

White farmers are living in fear of their lives

Nor has the occupation of farms gained widespread popular support among the millions of rural dwellers, who undoubtedly need land reform.

About 7,000 people are taking part in the invasions, some of whom are being paid by the government.

In spite of the latest violence, race relations generally remain good.

If the government hopes to gain votes in forthcoming general elections by stoking the controversy over land, it is likely to be disappointed.