Mr Mbeki gave at best a muted criticism of Zimbabwe, saying South Africa agreed with the concept of land reform but "disagreed with the manner in which it is being addressed".

He said: "We are convinced it is necessary to bring to a close the controversial issues relating to our important neighbour, Zimbabwe.

"In this regard, we are ready to engage both our ally and fellow liberation movement, Zanu-PF, and all others concerned, to help resolve the various issues in a constructive manner."

South Africa is not an improverished, totalitarian hellhole like Zimbabwe. But I fear for its future.