The pros and cons of intervention in Zimbabwe

Whilst on the subject of oppressive regimes,First Post has a good analyis of the pro's and cons of intervention in Zimbabwe

For the pro's of which many are listed

There's more hope of success if the West acts quickly. The rule of law and democratic process are not far beneath the surface in Zimbabwean society. African countries torn apart by prolonged civil turmoil, such as Uganda or Ghana, typically take several decades to regain stability.

but

Any intervention by Britain will be condemned as neo-colonialism and Morgan Tsvangirai will appear to be a stooge. In any case, like America, Britain is just too busy elsewhere, with forces overstretched in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Thereis now much evidence that Mugabe is turning the screws on his opposition prior to announcing a second poll.

There is a good piece in the Guardian this morning which provides a great deal of evidence

But the question is that this period proor to announcement is a window in which the West but more importantly the surrounding African states can act.