The Africans and their wicked sense of humour

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The Africans and their wicked sense of humour-Comment-Columnists-Guest contributors-TimesOnline

Today the UN General Assembly, that unerring barometer of world opinion, will acclaim Zimbabwe’s election to chair the UN Commission on Sustainable Development, the panel that deals with development and the environment. Thunderous applause from Africa’s numerous delegations, doubtless joined by Zimbabwe’s good friend China, will make up for the West’s inexplicable lack of enthusiasm. Zimbabwe’s triumph is certain because it is Africa’s nominee. Under an unwritten UN rule, this was Africa’s “turn” in the seat, so what Africa says, goes. African governments clearly appreciate the example Zimbabwe sets in tackling global warming.

Africa’s leaders are a tolerant lot – tolerant of the foulest regime, for fear of being held to account in their turn. They also have a wicked sense of humour, never better on display than at the UN. Four years ago Africans unanimously chose Libya to head the UN Commission on Human Rights; their honouring of Zimbabwe is similarly witty.

Why, only this week the Mugabe regime announced that households are to be rationed to four hours of electricity a day. No matter that the reason for this enforced curtailment of consumption is the catastrophic mismanagement of Zimbabwean resources: results are what count.

Well it would appear the African states have a full appreciation of humour :)