The Overview: 14.04.08

Africa: Some good news to start the week from Kenya, where an unexpected agreement on a power-sharing cabinet (which includes a record seven women ministers) has lessened the risk of a return to chaos. In Zimbabwe, who knows what's happening? Robert Mugabe didn't attend the summit in Zambia, a recount is being contested by the opposition MDC and has temporarily been halted, Mugabe's Zanu-PF is dealing out reprisals (Sokwanele has very graphic evidence), and many in Africa are tiring of South African President Thabo Mbeki's approach to the issue. The Guardian's Chris McGreal says there are many to blame for the current situation. In Ethiopia, local elections are taking place, although amidst allegations of intimidation and corruption.

Asia: Maoists in Nepal may win an absolute majority in historic elections in that country. The Olympic torch's visit to Tanzania was quick and trouble-free, and China's ambassador to the UK says the Western media is demonizing his country.

Europe: Ex-PM Silvio Berlusconi is a contender for his old job as Italy goes to the polls.

Further Reading: Mugabe and other Why Democracy favourites appear in Foreign Policy's list of dictators on their way out.