Nearly three months after Zimbabwe's main political parties agreed to share power few expect to see a unity government formed any time soon by President Robert Mugabe's ZANU-PF and prime minister-designate Morgan Tsvangirai's Movement for Democratic Change.
But the burgeoning humanitarian crisis in the country could change that.
Tsvangirai recently dismissed pressure from the Southern African Development Community to compromise on control of the Home Affairs Ministry and other issues and take part in the unity government, saying only an equitable deal could yield a legitimate government.
But some political analysts are now saying that with Zimbabwe moving beyond the brink of disaster into a complex humanitarian emergency, he should set aside such objections for the moment and enter into government with Mr. Mugabe to prevent a national tragedy.
For perspective reporter Patience Rusere turned to political analysts Rejoice Ngwenya of Harare and Brilliant Mhlanga of the University of Botswana in Gaborone. Ngwenya said the MDC has become invisible at a time when the country is desperate for leadership.
Gweru resident Muzi Mhlanga said the country is without a real government and that the MDC needs to swallow its pride to bring change. Happimore Nyakabawo of Mpumalanga, South Africa, said only a national unity government can solve Zimbabwe's problems. Morgan Ncube of Beitbridge said ZANU-PF and the MDC must start working together.
