Bob blows South Africa's UN seat?


By Lance Guma
08 August 2005

Speculation is growing over the reasons why an African Union faction, reportedly led by Robert Mugabe, Egypt and others ruined a tactical move by South Africa for a permanent United Nations security council seat. The split came out during an extraordinary session of the AU that was discussing the issue. The faction opposed attempts by South Africa and G4 applicants Brazil, India, Germany and Japan to seek a permanent seat without veto powers. Thabo Mbeki had argued that the compromise deal (without veto powers) was the only realistic way to get permanent seats for Africa. He had even struck an agreement with the G4 countries in London last week stating that a compromise was the best strategy. Mugabe and the others however had different ideas. The AU summit rejected the compromise and insisted on demanding permanent seats accompanied by veto power. It is now feared the clash will jeopardize South Africa's chances of getting the seat as the United States and other countries sitting on the current council are thought to be apprehensive about an increased number of veto-wielding countries. A unified position by the G4 countries and the AU was considered a sure formula for pushing through 6 extra seats on the security council, including the two for Africa. Southern African analyst for the International Crisis Group, Sidney Masamvu, poured scorn on Mugabe's perceived influence in the 'revolt'. He says Mugabe is so weak at moment he cannot afford to be leading such significant international developments. He said the 1 billion dollar loan he is seeking from South Africa has left him so exposed that press reports on his role in the AU split were grossly exaggerated. Masamvu added however that it is true that most countries are wary of South Africa's growing influence in Africa and are eager to clip its political wings. Most AU member states are said to be uncomfortable with the blossoming relationship between South Africa and other G4 countries.