A major issue here, and I think one of the reasons why external force has not been contemplated, is the impact/influence/relationships with the rest of the Southern African countries, many of which until recently followed Mbeki's appeasement. There is a strong sense that any lasting solution must be an "African" solution, it must come from, and involve, Zimbambwe's neighbours. Yesterday for the first time Tanzania and the rest came out openly to criticise Mugabe, leaving Mbeki alone to bleat about giving his old pal more time.

It is important that Tsvangirai does not withdraw, as he is considering doing right now. We will know on Monday. But any force applied to the situation must be local, or we could be facing a UN presence there for 10 years or more, trying to sort out the aftermath.