Ann Talbot considers how pressure from the US, which considers Zimbabwe a threat to the economic stability of the continent, may make pliant African leaders turn on Robert Mugabe’s regime. She also highlights how any further sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe will only deepen its people’s misery and enhance the likelihood of military intervention as the situation spirals out of control.

In order to legitimise the tyrannical actions of his regime, Mugabe appeals to anti-colonial rhetoric, whereas in its condemnation Britain invokes the language of human rights. Both discourses are debased by this hypocrisy, and the realities of power also concealed, writes Priyamvada Gopal.

Stephen Lendman considers the BBC’s reporting on Iraq, Afghanistan, the Balkans, Hugo Chavez, Zimbabwe and Robert Mugabe – and finds it wanting.

Doug Ireland salutes Peter Tatchell, gay rights and human rights activist.

The Morning Star looks at the double standards employed in criticising regimes such as that in Zimbabwe, while excusing the death and destruction caused by the UK and its allies.