It would be all too easy at this juncture, to relent, to resign ourselves to failure. To console ourselves with the thought that we did what we could, and it, sadly, was not enough. But if we care in the slightest for the people of Zimbabwe , for democracy itself, and for the rights of people everywhere to determine their own lives, we cannot stand down or move on.  

Regardless of the allusions to possible transitional political arrangements we hear whispered in the corridors of power, we must continue to support and amplify the voices of ordinary Zimbabwean citizens. Amnesty International, Global Call to Action against Poverty ( GCAP ) and CIVICUS will next week launch a campaign of grassroots action across Africa , “Pan-African Campaign of Solidarity for Zimbabwe ” on Saturday, 12 July 2008 . We call on citizens of African nations and African civil society organisations to send their leadership an undiluted message of solidarity with the Zimbabwean people and a demand that they go beyond the mouthing of statements to decisive action.  

You can join the campaign wherever you are. By mobilising grassroots support, by organising and participating in local actions and by spreading the word. The valiant defenders of human and democratic rights in Zimbabwe deserve no less than our strongest expression of solidarity. Democracy itself demands our continued vigilance. 

For more information on the Pan-African Day of Solidarity for Zimbabwe : Saturday,12 July 2008, click here.