So Zimbabwe has now passed snooping laws as well. This comes as no big surprise, of course, but one particular line is worth noting.

Communications Minister Christopher Mushowe defended it, saying it was similar to anti-terror laws elsewhere such as in the UK, US and South Africa.

"These are countries which are regarded as the beacons of democracy," he said.

Yup. Way to set a good example, people. If you thought your complete abolishment of privacy only affected your own country, think again...

The BBC article on Mugabe extending his reign - sorry, presidency - until 2010 has given me the opportunity for a little chuckle. So here's your World Politics Quote Of The Week:

Mugabe himself has decided to come clean about his succession. He basically has decided to succeed himself. (Johnathan Moyo, former Minister of Information, to the BBC

In other words, I suppose Dubya could be a lot worse than he is. But that remains to be seen in 2008...