Zimbabwe's state-run (Mugabe Tested, Mugabe Approved!) newspaper The Herald reports that the recount in 23 contested constituencies is nearly complete and that the four leading candidates (or their seconds) will be invited to witness the announcement and see the data.
Let us assume that The Herald is playing it straight, which is not something we can take for granted. Under ordinary circumstances sunlight is the best disinfectant, and transparency is necessary. But of course the situation, which will inevitably take place in circumstances that the government will dictate, may well just provide another opportunity for Mugabe's grandstanding and demagoguery. Still, perhaps this represents traction after a month of stasis?
