Dickson Igwe. Photo: Provided

The story on the all powerful Virgin Islands street corner is that there is seismic activity in the world of politics. The jockeying for position has already begun for the election showdown at the end of 2015. Yes, it is never too early to start the battle for political power. There are some crucial moves being played in the game called political chess.

These are moves by chess pieces from loyal knight to powerful king, changing for good the geography of power in the subterranean world that is Virgin Islands politics. This is a classic game of musical chairs being played, especially in the opposition camp.

Pawns on all sides of the spectrum of power wonder what is going on. And by pawns one is alluding to the foot soldiers and grass roots supporters of all the main camps, especially the main two. Things appear quiet. But in politics, it is when things are quiet, that one better watch it.

The political landscape is being redrawn this approaching midterm. The die is being cast as to who will be fighting for power at the end of 2015: and on all sides of the political divide. Or should one say all four sides? So to quote an ancient Chinese proverb, this Political Watcher will state that these are certainly ‘’interesting times’’ for these Lesser Antilles.

The incumbents appear calm and collected. But underneath this veneer of tranquility, there is an active volcano. There is a complex choreography being danced.

And in the opposition camp, Robert Mugabe is grinning from ear to ear as his henchmen move in to take control of that powerful but bleeding beast. The clock is ticking, and Mugabe’s soldiers and supporters are ready to do the powerful warrior’s bidding. They are impatient, and they are keen and eager, as never before to attack. Like sharks, they sniff blood. They wait for Mugabe to give the order.

Mugabe has one ‘’serious weakness.’’ He respects and loves the OLD KING. Mugabe is not willing to do the dastardly deed of orchestrating a coup. But many in his camp are unhappy at this. They see this as Mugabe’s one Achilles Heel: this fondness for, and loyalty to, the Old King.  Would the Old King do the same for Mugabe were the shoes on the other foot, or should one say the dagger in the other hand? Is that love mutual?

Yes, swords and knives have been unsheathed. The opposition’s foot soldiers and base have been told: choose your side or forever hold your peace. There is a falling in line behind one or the other: it is either the OLD KING and his anxious posse, or the RISING PRINCE and his hungry henchmen.

Now is the time of decision for that terrible outfit. It is no longer a waiting for the Old King to decide when to retire. He will bow out gracefully, or get handed his ticket for a 12 month world cruise. In other words the push is coming.  His time is up. He should go gracefully, and avoid the continued hemorrhaging.

Another thing: the third phalanx made up of ambitious and impatient young commentators is no longer the only option for the Joe Voter who wants out of the TWO PARTY SYSTEM. Apparently, there is now a FOURTH PARTY being readied for the FANDANGO of late 2015. Will they merge into one?

And the latest movie has starring, some of the OLD KING’S most loyal men and women. These are soldiers who cannot stomach the thought of rule under Mugabe, and his supposed deputy REVERSE ROBIN HOOD. Mr. COOL and SEXY, and the party’s most gifted orator: a well connected female, are at the top of that soon to be announced political group- then add a red skin aristocrat. That is the talk!

Many believe there is not much hope for that faction, were they to form a new party. But time as usual will tell: never say never in politics. POLITICIANS MAKE STRANGE BEDFELLOWS.

Yes, many in the opposition camp fear the ruthlessness, and ‘’take no prisoners’’ approach of the RIDER of that SUPER BEAST, the JACK ASS called ZIMBABWE. They know that under Mugabe’s rule, his word will be final: Mugabe will run his own show, and the others will either fall into place, or fall ominously on Mugabe’s bloody sword.

Yes, despite all the shenanigans of OLD KING KONG and his QUEEN to hold on to power, Mugabe holds a winning hand of cards. For now, he appears to be keeping them close to his chest.

To be continued...

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