In Harare

More bad news from Zimbabwe, where human rights groups report that the leading Opposition figure, Morgan Tsvangirai, has been severely beaten while in police custody, suffering serious head injuries.

His arrest and that of other Opposition leaders was ordered on Sunday by Robert Mugabe, the 83-year-old self-styled socialist who has ruled what used to be one of Africa's most prosperous and beautiful nations since 1980.

According to news reports, the arrest and torture of Mr Tsvangirai has prompted "international condemnation" of Mugabe and his thugs.

Except in Havana, of course, where Mugabe is still considered a friend.