WikiLeaks cables: US pressured British regulator to act against Iranian banks

US wanted Financial Services Authority to take leadership role against banks to deter a 'nuclear-armed Iran', cables show

Senior US officials urged British banking regulators two years ago to take more draconian action against Iranian banks...

Click here (http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2010/dec/13/wikileaks-us-fsa-iran-banks) to read the full story

US embassy cables: Washington told of RBS's 'disastrous acquisitions'

C O N F I D E N T I A L LONDON 001069

SIPDIS

TREASURY FOR MEYER AND WINN

EO 12958 DECL: 5/6/2014

TAGS ECON, EINV, UK

SUBJECT: RBS EXECUTIVES SAY "MEA CULPA" - AND SHARE PLANS

TO RESTORE BANK'S STANDING

Classified...

Click here (http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/us-embassy-cables-documents/205767) to read the full story

Happiness doesn't increase with growing wealth of nations, finds study

A survey of developed and developing countries suggests citizens' sense of wellbeing does not rise with increasing wealth

Getting richer does not make a country happier in the long run, according to the largest-ever review of the links between a...

Click here (http://www.guardian.co.uk/science/2010/dec/13/happiness-growing-wealth-nations-study) to read the full story

Bad weather suspends Scotland deliveries

M&S, Tesco, Sainsbury's, Amazon, Boots and Parcelforce refuse to guarantee delivery of online orders by Christmas

Major retailers have been forced to suspend online customers' deliveries – and in some cases even new orders – in Scotland as a result...

Click here (http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2010/dec/13/bad-weather-suspends-scotland-deliveries) to read the full story

S. Africa opens first space office

South Africa has opened its first space office in the capital Johannesburg in an attempt to become the continent's leading earth observation centre in the next 10 years. The Minister of Science and Technology Naledi Pandor said: "Our efforts to...

Click here (http://www.africanews.com/site/list_message/32292?data%5Bsource%5D=rss#m32292) to read the full story

Regulators eye Stanford brokers in probe: report

HOUSTON (Reuters) - U.S. regulators have notified some brokers who worked for indicted financier Allen Stanford that they may face civil fraud charges, the Financial Times reported on Monday.

Click here (http://feeds.reuters.com/~r/reuters/businessNews/~3/cgeK6mAe6rM/idUSTRE6BD0LR20101214) to read the full story

Nasdaq slips after rally as Dow trims gain on China

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The Nasdaq closed lower to end eight straight days of gains on Monday as some large-cap tech stocks slid in a late-day sell-off.

Click here (http://feeds.reuters.com/~r/reuters/businessNews/~3/49KeFEHCfCg/idUSTRE6BC0YL20101214) to read the full story

Nasdaq slips after rally as Dow trims gain on China

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The Nasdaq closed lower to end eight straight days of gains on Monday as some large-cap tech stocks slid in a late-day sell-off.

Click here (http://feeds.reuters.com/~r/reuters/businessNews/~3/49KeFEHCfCg/idUSTRE6BC0YL20101214) to read the full story

Executives see no need for more U.S. stimulus: survey

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Corporate treasurers and finance executives believe that no additional fiscal stimulus is necessary to boost the U.S. economy, and many see inflation risks in the Federal...

Click here (http://feeds.reuters.com/~r/reuters/businessNews/~3/GaJQGcM-Bck/idUSTRE6BC4UL20101213) to read the full story

When Will China’s Internet Giants Open the Acquisition Wallet? (TCTV)

The biggest difference between the Internet scenes in Silicon Valley and China this year? We're all still asking when Facebook will go public, while Chinese companies are filing left and right. Part of this is an investor demand to get a chunk of...

Click here (http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Techcrunch/~3/JYgTyu8QqQA/) to read the full story

WTO Backs U.S. in China Tire Dispute

The WTO sided with the U.S. over tariffs the Obama administration imposed last year on Chinese tires, in a high-profile case likely to stoke tensions in coming U.S.-China trade talks.

Click here (http://feeds.wsjonline.com/~r/wsj/xml/rss/3_7011/~3/JTTHYewHA3A/SB10001424052748703727804576017473322868118.html) to read the full story

MDC continue to show leadership at home as splinter parties splintered even further…

MDC continued to show leadership at home and in the region as splinter parties splintered even further and Zanu (PF) claimed to have seen a new light - with vice-president Joice Mujuru claiming that President Robert Mugabe doesn't know about on-going...

Click here (http://newzimsituation.com/mdc-continue-to-show-leadership-at-home-as-splinter-parties-splintered-even-further-8230-182585.htm) to read the full story

Nobel ceremony honours Liu Xiaobo

Few nations heed Beijing's boycott as committee calls for winner to be freed and tells China: citizens have right to criticise

It was not a special chair. Like the six others next to it on the dais in the cavernous central assembly room of Oslo's...

Click here (http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2010/dec/10/nobel-peace-prize-liu-xiaobo1) to read the full story

US Military Bans Physical Media To Curb Leaks

In the wake of recent high-profile leaks, some branches of the US military have taken a step that may be end up being as controversial as its cause. Ironically, the news comes via a leaked memo obtained by Wired's Danger Room that insists that...

Click here (http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Techcrunch/~3/BtBJD9Z_UQQ/) to read the full story

Wikileaks news round-up: Hackers, backers and more arrests

Wikileaks news! Wikileaks news! It's been another eventful day of twists and turns in the unfolding epic tale of the whistleblower website.

Click here (http://crave.cnet.co.uk/software/wikileaks-news-round-up-hackers-backers-and-more-arrests-50001929/?s_cid=938) to read the full story

Security in force as empty chair represents Nobel winner

Protesters gathered outside the Norwegian Embassy and United Nations offices in Beijing on Friday as an empty chair represented the imprisoned Chinese dissident scheduled to receive the Nobel Peace Prize.

Click here (http://rss.cnn.com/~r/rss/cnn_topstories/~3/gT_3tJWy37Y/index.html) to read the full story

Obama and Big Government vs. 'God's America'?

On Nov. 30, about a dozen moderate Christian leaders gathered for a meeting in Washington, D.C. Their colleagues on the religious right had been delivering a potent new message about God and country, of fear and domination, that was resonating among...

Click here (http://www.newsweek.com/2010/12/09/one-nation-under-god.html?from=rss) to read the full story

China's Trade Surplus Narrows

China's exports and imports soared in November, which is likely to ratchet up pressure on Beijing to tighten monetary policy and allow the yuan to appreciate more quickly. Separately, property prices rose for the third month.

Click here (http://feeds.wsjonline.com/~r/wsj/xml/rss/3_7011/~3/QM1AMLJA65c/SB10001424052748703766704576010272655255078.html) to read the full story

Israel inferno raging out of control

With 41 people dead and more than 17 000 people evacuated from their homes, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sought to bring in more international forces to join those already working to battle the biggest inferno in Israel's history.

Read

Click here (http://newzimsituation.com/israel-inferno-raging-out-of-control-181425.htm) to read the full story

Aussies mulls cancelling Assange passport

Sydney — Australia yesterday questioned whether it would be productive to void the passport of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange and hinted that he may not be welcome to return if convicted of crimes.

Read

Click here (http://newzimsituation.com/aussies-mulls-cancelling-assange-passport-181426.htm) to read the full story

Are electric cars rubbish? Robert Llewellyn and Rory Reid thrash it out

Are electric vehicles rubbish? In this video, car fancier Rory Reid debates the matter with EV nut Robert Llewellyn, of Red Dwarf and Scrapheap Challenge fame.

Click here (http://crave.cnet.co.uk/cartech/are-electric-cars-rubbish-robert-llewellyn-and-rory-reid-thrash-it-out-50001742/?s_cid=938) to read the full story

U.S. tax deal squeezes potential home buyers

NEW YORK (Reuters) - For Kathryn Confer, refinancing the mortgage on her home in Erie, Pennsylvania, became a race against time -- first because she was drowning under a 10.5 percent interest rate...

Click here (http://feeds.reuters.com/~r/reuters/businessNews/~3/QYXomGUGa-Q/idUSTRE6B76HL20101209) to read the full story

How Do You Socialize an Already Social Brand?

For many smaller businesses who have no real online reach or visibility, social media is a blessing that can establish the business rather easily once you connect with the right people. For other businesses, their brand is already so well known that...

Click here (http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/techipedia/~3/MBHi4AiuORY/) to read the full story

Social Media in the Industry: Customization is the Key to Success

This is a guest post by Angela Denby. Over the past couple years, one of the most common questions from business owners has been, "Do I need to be on Facebook and/or Twitter?" Without a clear methodology of measuring ROI, many businesses are still...

Click here (http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/techipedia/~3/S5TtoSpTNZI/) to read the full story

Why Most People Fail in Social Media

Tools are a wonderful part of today's information age, but if you're going to use "social networks" or that thing we call "social media," it's important to remember the common denominator: the social. Without an understanding of your community and an...

Click here (http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/techipedia/~3/4HwEwO_AK7Y/) to read the full story

16 Tycoons Agree to Give Away Fortunes

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg is among 16 billionaires joining a group pledging to give the majority of their wealth to charity. Others include AOL's Steve Case, and investor Carl Icahn.

Click here (http://feeds.wsjonline.com/~r/wsj/xml/rss/3_7011/~3/TQIntgL0ii8/SB10001424052748703493504576007982500939482.html) to read the full story

Tax Plan Spurs Deal Making

The tax package gained new momentum toward passage in the Senate, setting off a scramble by lawmakers and lobbyists to get provisions into the bill.

Click here (http://feeds.wsjonline.com/~r/wsj/xml/rss/3_7011/~3/zZP2dh-mIpU/SB10001424052748703493504576007560480857714.html) to read the full story

U.S. to probe alleged mortgage discrimination (Reuters)

Reuters - WASHINGTON (Reuters) -- The Obama administration on Wednesday said it would investigate charges that almost two dozen lenders have unfairly denied U.S. government-backed mortgages to qualified loan applicants.

Click here (http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/business/*http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20101209/us_nm/us_usa_housing_mortgages) to read the full story

Hackers Rise for WikiLeaks

A number of companies, prosecutors and banks that have tangled with WikiLeaks and its founder have suffered online attacks, apparently from hackers bent on extracting revenge for the controversial website.

Click here (http://feeds.wsjonline.com/~r/wsj/xml/rss/3_7011/~3/7InO-ko68Ms/SB10001424052748703493504576007182352309942.html) to read the full story

AIG Unveils How U.S. Will Exit Its Stake

AIG entered into an agreement with the U.S. government that details, among other things, the rights the Treasury Department will have as it begins to sell its controlling stake in an accelerated exit plan.

Click here (http://feeds.wsjonline.com/~r/wsj/xml/rss/3_7011/~3/GL_N_83Nahg/SB10001424052748703493504576007494075671486.html) to read the full story

Oil rises to near $89 as US dollar weakens (AP)

AP - Oil prices rose to near $89 a barrel Thursday in Asia as a weaker U.S. dollar made crude cheaper for investors with other currencies.

Click here (http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/business/*http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20101209/ap_on_bi_ge/oil_prices) to read the full story

Transport secretary says sorry after chaos of Scotland's 'perfect storm'

M8 has reopened, and thaw forecasted across much of UK, but snow and freezing continue continue in north

Scotland had faced a "perfect storm" of snow and freezing conditions, the country's transport minister said, as the main motorway, the M8,...

Click here (http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2010/dec/08/transport-secretary-scotland-perfect-storm) to read the full story

Corruption is blossoming again at the passport office.

Once again corruption has taken firm root at the Makombe building. It seems like we are sliding back to the 2007 and 2008 era where corruption was like marijuana plant at the High court. I took two of my relatives for passports in August and October. It looks like they were lucky to get them. Come to December were everyone from South Africa are coming to get passport, it looks like its an opportunity to make it big and big time. People would stand in the queu and you will have hope of getting your passport. Some would have had to sleep at the passport office so as to be the first ones to get passport but never, its those with money. Even to get a birth certificate is impossible especialy when you don't have the entry number. You must pay and pay big. A day ago had two guys who came from South Africa, we stood in the queu but it was to no avail as e office bearers only took less than fifty people and told everyone else that they have closed. I wonder where the two ministers are getting the figures that 500 passports are being issued everyday. Yesterday even he you were first you could not get the passport because you have to pay at least 80dollars to get the passport. Without it, no passport. It really hurts to see people being exploited like that. Looks like even the Registrar General gave the order for everyone to enrich themselves from desperate people. Just a month ago the Hon Theresa Makoni visited Makombe so corruption but she was rebuffed by Tobaiwa Mudede that she was politicing. I think right now is the time to see it for herself because its now fully blown. Where do people get that money when alread we are struggling to make ends meet. Its even worse when you want to take the fifty dollars passport they don't even look at you, they think you are made. Talk to everyone around tells you 'aa ndonyika yacho mdara, wototonyora'. Its really shame. I am begging the Prime Minister and the Police Chief to at least make a suprise visit in the morning before 9am to see it for himself. If the entire police from Avondale Harare where all relocated to rural areas i bet these ones deserve to be fired and jailed even without trial. Someone must save the poor please.

Sent from my Nokia phone

WikiLeaks cables, day 9: summary of today's key points

There are no fewer than 251,287 cables from more than 250 US embassies around the world, obtained by WikiLeaks. We present a day-by-day guide to the revelations from the US embassy cables both from the Guardian and its international media partners in...

Click here (http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2010/dec/07/wikileaks-embassy-cables-key-points-day-9) to read the full story

Wikileaks' Assange arrested in UK

Wikileaks' founder Julian Assange detained in London after Sweden issues a European arrest warrant.

For more details: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news

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Take Tough And Quiet Approach On Zim - Think Tank

December 06, 2010 - Several think tank analysts have recommended that the
international community take a "tough and quiet" approach against President
Robert Mugabe and Zanu (PF), according to a latest report by Wikileaks.

According to a document called Africa:US Versus UK Priorities, London Think
Tanks Comment published on a new Wikileaks website, Zimbabwe should and will
remain a top priority for the UK.

The original Wikileaks website was closed after the controversial leaks of
the classified documents and its founder, Julian Assange, has been described
as a "high tech terrorist" and is now being hunted by police on sex crime
charges.

However, it noted that President Mugabe's history of bombastic statements
had only served to solidify his status as a colonial liberation leader.

"From a strategic perspective, these analysts termed the United State's
focus on Zimbabwe as "surprising" because Zimbabwe was not a threat, but
largely a contained crisis. They said that Zimbabwe's crisis should be
treated as a regional issue, not an international one, and that the US
government should not sacrifice it's relations with South Africa, the more
strategic partner, over Zimbabwe, even if the political events in Zimbabwe
run contrary to the US government's democracy agenda."

They asserted that the international community's concern about Zimbabwe
being a regional destabiliser was largely unfounded, as most of the Southern
Africa Development Community (SADC) - especially South Africa - "can take
care of themselves."

Wikileaks has been releasing classified United States diplomatic cables sent
to and from US embassies in countries throughout the world. These cables
include orders sent out from the Department of State, embassy reporting
about the local governments and details of US government activities in each
country.

It has published 251,287 cables, originating from 274 embassies and dating
from 28th December 1966 to 28th February 2010. Of this total, 15, 652 of the
cables were marked Secret, 101,748 Confidential and 133,887 Unclassified,
although even the 'unclassified' documents contain sensitive information.

It said in its Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) that the motives for
releasing these documents were based on the US founding father James Madison
who famously said: "Knowledge will forever govern ignorance and a people who
mean to be their own governors must arm themselves with the power which
knowledge gives."

"This basic philosophy of the American revolution inspires all our work," it
said.

The cables appear to be the single most significant historical archive ever
released and affect basic and heartfelt issues all over the world;
geopolitics and democracy; human rights and the rule of law; national
resources and global trade.

US authorities have said the release may put people at risk.

Wikileaks said it had a four-year publishing history during which it had
released documents pertaining to over 100 countries. There was no report,
including from the US Government, of any of their releases ever having
caused harm to any individual.

It said as part of its review process, it requested the US State Department,
which had claimed to have conducted an extensive review of the material of
its own over the last few months, to provide the titles of the cables which
they should look at with extra care.

It said the State Department refused to provide that information, or
negotiate any other arrangement, suggesting that its desire to cover up at
all costs eclipses its bona fide desire to minimise potential harm.

The State Department gave its side of the correspondence to the New York
Times and elsewhere at the same time.

Instead of publishing the documents all at once, the organisation will be
releasing the embassy files in stages over the next few months.

"The subject matter of these cables is of such importance, and the
geographical spread so broad, that to do otherwise would not do this
material justice.

"We owe it to the people who entrusted us with the documents to ensure that
there is time for them to be written about, commented on and discussed
widely in public, something that is impossible if hundreds of thousands of
documents are released at once. We will therefore be releasing the documents
gradually over the coming weeks and months."

Wikileaks is staging the release of the embassy cables in order to maximise
the impact of their release and do justice to the source material. A later
phase of this release will involve working with partners in a far wider
selection of countries to ensure each country gets to see the real workings
of its government's relations with the USA.

It said it protected its sources. "We will not publicly comment on the
source of any of our releases, how the information was obtained, or on the
security measures used to protect sources identities. Our submission systems
are secure and anonymised."

The US embassy cables cover serious issues for every country in the world
with a US diplomatic presence.

"As far as knowledge about what is truly going on in the world can influence
our decisions, this material must result in political change and reform," it
said.

"One newspaper has alleged the cables might destabilise the Middle East.
These cables, by giving the players an unvarnished description of how they
are seen, there will be a common ground on which to effectively negotiate
peace and stability. We do not see this as a risk of destabilisation, but an
opportunity for stabilisation and reform in the Middle East.

Interesting story : Mugabe organised Rhodesian bombing of guerrilla camp to oust Sithole

http://www.zimdiaspora.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4604:mugabe-organised-rhodesian-bombing-of-guerrilla-camp-to-oust-sithole-&catid=38:travel-tips&Itemid=18

Mugabe organised Rhodesian bombing of guerrilla camp to oust Sithole
Monday, 06 December 2010 08:52 Editor

By Manfred Jaeger, former Rhodesian Intelligence officer

I was recruited by Dieter Kranz, a STASI high ranking officer, in October 1977. At that time I was almost 20 and had already completed my initial training and a 21mth deployment with the Rhodesia Light Infantry. Kranz was a highly experienced intelligence operative and unlike most of his colleagues, abhorred torture and hated the Russians! I was reeling from the news that my best friend Staff Sergeant Nyanguwo, Rhodesian African Rifles (3 years my senior) had been killed in mysterious circumstances that aroused my suspicions that Rhodesian Intelligence agents had been responsible. Considering that only a couple of months earlier, he and I had been discussing our mutual serious misgivings with regard to the Rhodesian war-specifically considering the death and trauma being meted out upon innocent black villagers by both us and the ZANLA/Zipra combattants.

I had, upon learning of Nyanguwo's death, made strenuous attempts to find out the details of the so called "contact" that led to his death, particularly since his devastated parents and siblings had described to me his mutilated corpse (he died while I was in the bush so I heard about it some 3 weeks after he was buried). Shortly after I started asking questions, I was paid a visit, while on R&R by two Special Branch goons who wanted to know what my interest in Nyanguwo's death was. Suffice it to say that the "interview" did not go well and they left after having uttered threats of unspeakable action against "kaffir lovers" who stuck their noses where they didn't belong.

By the time I met Kranz, I was more than ready for, basically, revenge. He knew that and could read me like a book and by January 1978 I was in the then West Germany undergoing intensive Intelligence and Counter Intelligence training. West Germany was chosen for several reasons; firstly I was pro American and therefore not prepared to join the STASI proper. Secondly, Rhodesian Intelligence was keeping a careful eye on the typical patterns of other operatives/trainees and entering East Germany would have likely as not compromised my cover. Thirdly, as I was good with languages, Kranz had already organised cover employment with West German companies who sanctions busted and did business with the Rhodesians (Mercedes Benz, Mannesman, Deutz etc). As a result from July 1978 until July 1980 I travelled to and fro to Rhodesia, translating for the German businessmen and, as a white, seen as "sympathetic" to the Rhodesian cause I was able to get invited to various functions, obtained access to Officers' Messes, individual homes for "braais", and as a result succeeded in obtaining information that would then be relayed to ZANLA and ZIPRA Commands, via Kranz. I have no idea how many other whites were operating against the Rhodesians as I never met any of them.

Of interest though is that early on in my training, Kranz warned me never to trust even those ZANLA and ZIPRA commanders who interacted with the STASI and strongly advised me to avoid any contact with them. He continuously reminded me that to trust any of them would ultimately lead to my capture and death and not necessarily at the hand of the Rhodesians. When I expressed my curiosity at his insistence he gave me what he termed a "text book example" of what to beware of.

According to Kranz, Morrison Nyathi, a ZANLA cadre, had been a double agent feeding information to the Rhodesians as far back as May 1975. Apparently, the Rhodesians were careful to cover Nyathi by not immediately acting on certain information he passed on- ie. if he advised them of the imminent deployment of a unit of guerrillas, led by cadres, the Rhodesians would allow the unit to penetrate Rhodesia and even allow some attacks to take place before springing the trap to try to capture the cadres and force them to reveal even more sensitive information. ZANLA Command would simply assume that the unit in question had, as was commonly the case, been sold out or exposed itself. At that time, Ndabaningi Sithole was the overall head of ZANLA and had such able commanders as Tekere and Nhongo with him. According to Kranz, Mugabe, with an eye to getting Sithole out of the way, saw an opportunity to kill two birds with one stone.

The Liberation Struggle wasn't going so well, and as with all struggles, the International Community's interest was waning, as was it's willingness to fork out more money. It therefore occurred to Mugabe to strike a deal with Nyathi (Kranz claimed that Mugabe knew that Nyathi worked for the Rhodesians). He approached Nyathi and firstly disclosed that he was aware of Nyathi's activities. Nyathi, obviously denied all implications vehemently but nevertheless knew that he was in a very dangerous situation if rumours that he was a traitor were to leak. As a result, he listened to Mugabe's proposal, which, in effect suggested that they should work together to pull off an intelligence coup that would solve both of Mugabe's problems, in return for which Mugabe would look after Nyathi.

Thus it was that Nyathi briefed the Rhodesian intelligence liaison operatives, in great detail, about the danger that Nyadzonya base would present to Rhodesian security and the exact lay out of the base. Furthermore, the base commanders were misinformed to expect a combined Frelimo/Cuban delegation at any time on an inspection of the base.

The results of the Rhodesian attack, in August 1976, are undisputed with an estimated death toll of over 1300 combined guerrillas, support staff and civilians, including women and children.

The results for Mugabe were however even more spectacular, in that he had timed the operation to coincide with Sithole's absence from the ZANLA Command in Mozambique. As a result he was among the first to 'commiserate' with the survivors, vociferously denouncing the cowardly raid of the Rhodesians, all the while asking the ZANLA foot soldiers and Commanders whether they would not be better served by an overall Commander like him rather than an absentee one. International outrage was re-kindled and once again the coffers of the ZANLA and to a certain extent ZIPRA forces could look forward to replenishment.

Kranz explained that Nyathi, rather than being rewarded by either the Rhodesians or Mugabe, "disappeared" but follow up reports from other agents revealed to Kranz that the Rhodesians hadn't realised that they had been set up to attack Nyadzonya and truly missed Nyathi. Kranz's theory remained that Mugabe didn't like loose ends.

Having served until after Independence however, I saw no reason to continue and resigned to work in the private sector and finally return to my home country, Zimbabwe.

I have always followed the developments in Zimbabwe with great interest, while believing that as a member of a minority ethnic group I would leave politics to the majority. The emergence of the Movement for Democratic Change under Tsvangirai was something of a reminder to me of the real objectives of the Liberation Struggle which, thanks to the character of the man who has been "leading" the country for the past 30 years, have been forgotten.

What truly riled me is to hear self proclaimed "war veterans" spouting off about never accepting a leader who wasn't from the Liberation Struggle. I've known all along that Mugabe was no Commander. People like Tekere were the real men in command of the armed struggle and did an admirable job under trying circumstances. Mugabe has always looked out for himself, ruthlessly and selfishly.

With the fall of the East Bloc and the reunification of Germany the shroud of total secrecy surrounding the STASI and similar organisations gradually lifted. I was recently able (Dieter Kranz died before the Berlin wall came down) to access Kranz's files and was amazed and delighted to find that my mentor not only kept meticulous records of operations we worked on together but also had transcripts and tape recordings of meetings between Morrison Nyathi and other STASI operatives working on the Africa desk. One of these operatives is still alive today and was a wealth of information on the Mugabe/Nyathi coup that continued to have repercussions even in 1977 when in May-June of that year the Rhodesians repeated their Operation Maradon (An attack in October 1976 on Jorge do Limpopo) calling the operation Aztec and once again targeting Jorge do Limpopo.

I continue to research this in the hope that more evidence will come to light to a) show Zimbabweans and the International Community that Mugabe is no hero and b) bring him to book in the Hague.

However, whether the evidence comes to light or not, it is clear that we cannot make any progress whatsoever in Zimbabwe while Mugabe is allowed free reign. One way or the other, like Machel, he's got to go. We've played by "democratic" rules too long, it's time to get real and get tough.

I trust his colleagues will reflect on this at their next (imminent) Party congress.

Manfred Jaeger

Intelligence & Counter Intelligence Officer (Ret Col)

STASI Liaison

Mozambique/Angola/Rhodesia

January 1978 – July 1980

Swiss bank closes WikiLeaks account

Bank account for whistleblowing website is frozen, the latest in a string of setbacks including disconnected servers.

Click here (http://english.aljazeera.net/news/europe/2010/12/201012617104208313.html) to read the full story

Wikileads: dont hide behind freedom of speach

The founder of wikileads thinks he is doing himself a favour, alas he is simply deceiving himself. I am not sure what he is trying to achieve by publishing those cables. Now he is being sponsored by Al Queda. He has to understand that whatever his actions only served to destroy innocent lives rather than protect them. Even in Africa dictators are celebrating because they have someone who is working for them. They say you see a person with the people that he hangs out with. He is now being sponsored by a terrorist, supported by dictators or communist regimes. I have not found a single benefit for this kind of behavior. None. Right now its no longer the Islamist extremists but him for he has proven to be a good spy for their targets. Thousands of lives as now at risk because of one irrisponsable person hiding behind freedom of speech. I wonder how he would feel if thousands of people die.

Sent from my Nokia phone

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Wikileads: dont hide behind freedom of speach

The founder of wikileads thinks he is doing himself a favour, alas he is simply deceiving himself. I am not sure what he is trying to achieve by publishing those cables. Now he is being sponsored by Al Queda. He has to understand that whatever his actions only served to destroy innocent lives rather than protect them. Even in Africa dictators are celebrating because they have someone who is working for them. They say you see a person with the people that he hangs out with. He is now being sponsored by a terrorist, supported by dictators or communist regimes. I have not found a single benefit for this kind of behavior. None. Right now its no longer the Islamist extremists but him for he has proven to be a good spy for their targets. Thousands of lives as now at risk because of one irrisponsable person hiding behind freedom of speech. I wonder how he would feel if thousands of people die.

Sent from my Nokia phone

--------------------------------------------------------------
Ovi Mail: Making email access easy
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WikiLeaks Case: Pvt. Bradley Mannings's Alleged Role in Leaking Classified Military Reports on Afghanistan War - ABC News

http://abcnews.go.com/WN/wikileaks-case-pvt-bradley-manningss-alleged-role-leaking/story?id=11254454

WikiLeaks founder threatens to release entire cache of unfiltered files

"WikiLeaks founder threatens to release entire cache of unfiltered files" at http://m.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/wikileaks-founder-threatens-to-release-entire-cache-of-unfiltered-files/article1825922/ from globeandmail.com, Canada's leading source for online news

BBC under fire after World Cup bid fails

BBC News website 'inundated by comments' on Fifa decision, many blaming corporation for England's World Cup bid failure

The BBC is facing a backlash after England's failed 2018 World Cup bid, with its news website "inundated by comments" posted at a...

Click here (http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2010/dec/03/bbc-world-cup-bid-fifa) to read the full story

Holiday Specials

Dallas Gold & Silver

Exchange

Kernel Fabyan's

Gourmet Popcorn

JewelClub.com

Catholic

Singles.com

Relic Brand

Tactics.com

True Religion Brand

Jeans

Wayside Gardens

Magic Murals

Boomer Medical

Dallas Gold & Silver Exchange

Commission: 8%

CD: 30 Days

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000312418
Join Program

Program Highlights:

- 8% commission
- Commission duration 30 days

- $450average order value

- Free shipping & returns
- Exclusive ongoing promotions on various brands

- Over 3,000 SKUs
- BYOL availableDallas Gold & Silver Exchange is one of the United States' largest retailers of new and pre-owned Jewelry, Fine Watches, Diamonds, Rare Coins, Bullion and Collectibles. Over the last 30+ years we have gained and kept tens of thousands of clients because of our wide variety of inventory and wholesale level pricing.

Our brands include: Rolex, Tiffany & Co, Cartier, Breitling, Patek Phillipe, Baume & Mercier, Tag Heuer, James Avery, John Hardy, Judith Ripka and more.

Website:
http://www.dgse.com
http://www.dgse.com

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000312418
Join the Dallas Gold & Silver Exchange affiliate program

Contact:
mailto:dclem@dgse.com
dclem@dgse.com

Kernel Fabyan's Gourmet Popcorn

Commission: 10%

CD: 30 Days

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000318477
Join Program

Program Highlights:

- 10% commission
- Commission duration 30 days
- Frequent and powerful promotions
- Provide exclusive offers
- BYOL available
At Kernel Fabyan's we use only the highest quality ingredients to make the best gourmet popcorn fresh daily. This way, whether you enjoy our popcorn yourself or give it as a gift, you can be confident that you are getting the very best!

Kernel Fabyan's Gourmet Popcorn is ideal for every gift-giving occasion. Built-to-order

popcorn gifts in attractive tins make perfect corporate gifts and our gourmet popcorn party favors will make your wedding, baby shower, fund raiser or any gathering even more festive!

For all new publishers who drive their first transaction this holiday season on kernelfabyans.com, we will send you a free gourmet popcorn tin filled with our customers' favorite - the
Classic Mix, a delicious combination of caramel and golden cheddar
popcorn.
Website:
http://www.kernelfabyans.com/
http://www.kernelfabyans.com/

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000318477
Join the Kernel Fabyan's Gourmet Popcorn affiliate program
Contact:
mailto:pdillonkf@gmail.com
pdillonkf@gmail.com

JewelClub.com

Commission: 7.5%

CD: 30 Days

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000316406
Join Program

Program Highlights:

- 7.5% commission
- Commission duration 30 days
- New items added daily
- The JewelClub Daily Giveaway & The JewelClub Daily Deal offers

- Free shipping and free gift box

- BYOL available

JewelClub is a member only website serving our employees and their invited friends and family. One perk of working at a jewelry company is that you can get your hands on stunning jewels at below-wholesale prices. Our employee and friends & family site is now open to new members. This members-only site features amazing jewels at unbelieveable prices, with new styles added daily. Our Customer Service Department is ready to assist you.

The site offers employees and their guests the benefit of purchasing quality fine jewelry produced in our factories around the world. The selection consists of diamonds, gemstones, pearls, gold and silver priced at or below wholesale. Items on JewelClub are primarily excess inventory or samples. For this reason, the offering on JewelClub changes daily and availability of certain items is limited. All of our products come with a 30-day money back guarantee.
Website:
http://www.jewelclub.com
http://www.jewelclub.com

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000316406
Join the JewelClub.com affiliate program
Contact:
mailto:customerservice@jewelclub.com
customerservice@jewelclub.com

CatholicSingles.com

Bounty: $8-$20

CD: 30 Days

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000315059
Join Program

Program Highlights:

- $8-$20 bounty per membership sign-up

- Commission duration 30 days
Help singles find faith, friendship, and love at CatholicSingles.com - the home for Catholic Singles on the Web - and find yourself making some great commissions when you join as an affiliate.

Since 1997, CatholicSingles.com has been THE Internet meeting place for Catholic singles. With more Catholic singles online than any other site, CatholicSingles.com is a true Catholic community, and the best choice for finding that special someone who shares the same faith and values.

As a wholly-owned Catholic site, CatholicSingles.com offers members a Compatibility Test, Catholic news and weekly columns from clergy and staff, a Personal Profile Page with unlimited photo uploads, live chat rooms, private email accounts, member searches, opportunities to participate in special events, and much more. With privacy controls and great prices on monthly memberships, singles can soon find their soul mate at CatholicSingles.com.

Website:
http://www.catholicsingles.com/
http://www.catholicsingles.com

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000315059
Join the CatholicSingles.com affiliate program
Contact:
mailto:catholicsingles@eaccountable.com
catholicsingles@eaccountable.com

Relic Brand

Commission: 10%

CD: 30 Days

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000316084
Join Program

Program Highlights:

- 10% commission

- Commission duration 30 days
- BYOL available
Since 1992, Relic has appealed to style-conscious consumers seeking trend-right fashion. Our in-house team of Relic designers stay continually abreast of the modern fashion scene, crafting collections that define our signature contemporary casual design aesthetic.

Website:
http://www.relicbrand.com
http://www.relicbrand.com

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000316084
Join the Relic Brand affiliate program
Contact:
mailto:relic-affiliates@google.com
relic-affiliates@google.com

Tactics.com

Commission: 7%

CD: 30 Days

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000314529
Join Program

Program Highlights:

- 7% commission

- Commission duration 30 days
- Special offers and significant discounts for your visitors
- BYOL available
Since 1999, Tactics has served tens of thousands of customers around the world, growing to become one of the largest online snow/skate/surf/street specialty stores in the country. Tactics prides themselves in providing courteous, informed and professional customer service and consistently fulfilling their promise to deliver quality gear and clothing to customer's doorsteps, quickly and accurately.

The Tactics affiliate program is a great way to earn commissions on everything from skateboard decks and accessories, to snowboards, boots, bindings and outerwear, plus surf gear and wetsuits. Tactics' broad selection also includes men's and women's clothing and footwear by 250 top-selling brands.

Website:
http://www.tactics.com/
http://www.tactics.com/

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000314529
Join the Tactics.com affiliate program
Contact:
mailto:tactics@affiliatetraction.com
tactics@affiliatetraction.com

True Religion

Brand Jeans

Commission: 7%

CD: 30 Days

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000314894
Join Program

Program Highlights:

- 7% commission

- Commission duration 30 days
- BYOL available
Jeffrey Lubell founded True Religion in 2002 with the intention of redefining premium denim. His vision was to make quality, American-made, authentic, timeless, great fitting, 1970's inspired jeans wear, with a trendsetting appeal for today's consumer.

Today, True Religion Brand Jeans is known not only for its denim, but also for its knit and woven sportswear, such as t-shirts, western shirts, sweatshirts and sweatpants that all have that vintage feel.True Religion's commitment to perfect fit, timeless style and that hippie bohemian chic flair have solidified True Religion's brand position as a leader in premium denim and casual sportswear globally.

While continuing to expand True Religion's line of jeans and sportswear, the company also branched out into numerous licensed products such as Footwear, Headwear, Swimwear, Eyewear, Hosiery, Socks, and Fragrance.

Website:
http://www.truereligionbrandjeans.com
http://www.truereligionbrandjeans.com

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000314894
Join the True Religion Brand Jeans affiliate program
Contact:
mailto:onestopamc@gmail.com
onestopamc@gmail.com
mailto:shopdirectbrands@eaccountable.com

Wayside Gardens

Commission: 4.5%

CD: 30 Days

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000312722
Join Program

Program Highlights:

- 4.5% commission

- Commission duration 30 days
- BYOL available

Your visitors will be delighted to discover a link to Wayside Gardens on your site, because they'll know that a superb selection of perennials, flowering plants, trees, shrubs, ground covers, and bulbs is just a click away. Serious gardeners appreciate the Wayside Gardens commitment to quality plants, sound roots, and unusual varieties.

If your visitors are true garden enthusiasts, they will be pleased with Wayside Gardens' carefully selected offering of shade perennials, sun perennials, container plants, fruit trees, deer-resistant plants, evergreens, and bulbs. To be offered by Wayside Gardens, a plant must meet the rigorous horticultural and aesthetic standards of renowned hybridizer, author, and gardening consultant, John Elsley. Your site's visitors deserve the best, and Wayside Gardens delivers.

Website:
http://www.waysidegardens.com/
http://www.waysidegardens.com

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000312722
Join the Wayside Gardens affiliate program
Contact:
mailto:affiliate@waysidegardens.com
affiliate@waysidegardens.com

Magic Murals

Commission: 8%

CD: 30 Days

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000317153
Join Program

Program Highlights:

- 8% commission
- Commission duration 30 days
- 5% average conversion rate
- $300 average order value
- BYOL available
Discover the art of making major commissions when you become an affiliate of MagicMurals.com - the online source of decorative wall murals for homes or professional spaces.

No matter the style or subject, you'll find the mural to match at MagicMurals.com. Customers can shop for thousands of easy-to-apply, high-quality wall murals through an extensive gallery that includes images from National Geographic, Lonely Planet Images, and a select group of international photographers and illustrators.

From landscapes and nature shots to whimsical designs for the kids, every wall mural at MagicMurals.com is available in two exceptional materials: QuikStik,(tm) a repositionable and reusable self-adhesive vinyl, or UltraStik(tm) for a more permanent wallpaper solution. Customers can even create their own murals with a custom mural creator that allows them to upload their favorite image and see it transformed into a gorgeous wall mural made to their specifications. With an emphasis on quality and outstanding customer service, customers can make their vision a reality with a couple of clicks at MagicMurals.com.

Website:
http://www.magicmurals.com/
http://www.magicmurals.com/

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000317153
Join the Magic Murals affiliate program
Contact:
mailto:magicmurals@eaccountable.com
magicmurals@eaccountable.com

Boomer Medical

Commission: 5%

CD: 30 Days

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000290111
Join Program

Program Highlights:

- 5% commission
- Commission duration 30 days
- 28% average conversion rate

- $200+ average order value

- Free shipping on orders over $100
Boomer has over 26 years of extensive medical supply retail experience. Our staff consists of highly trained, certified and recognized personnel who have compiled very thoughtful product solutions for practically any physical challenge. We are devoted to helping our customers at every stage of their lifelong journey to health, happiness and success.

Link to BoomerMedical.com with confidence knowing that you're customers are shopping with a trusted brand.

Shipping: Items sold are intended for a US-based audience. When purchasing items from outside the US the sale is deemed to have taken place in the United States and is subject to exclusive jurisdiction of the United States Courts under US Law.

Website:
http://www.boomermedical.com
http://www.boomermedical.com

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&client=21000000000290111
Join the Boomer Medical affiliate program
Contact:
mailto:mes@boomermedical.com
mes@boomermedical.com

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.

YourGoogle Affiliate Network team

mailto:affiliatenetwork@google.com?subject=New%20Advertisers
affiliatenetwork@google.com

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Exclusive Holiday Offers

Google
Affiliate Network is pleased to announce affiliate exclusive holiday
offers from select Google Affiliate Network advertisers. The special
offers will be available for Monday, December 13th, one of the busiest e-commerce days of the year. Offers will be live and valid only on December 13th.

Any
Google Affiliate Network publisher who has a relationship with the
participating advertisers will have access to these exclusive offers.
Below please find the Advertisers, offers and application links to their
programs:

New customers receive 25% off all personal products

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000205772&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAyMDU3NzI=
Apply Now
LG Electronics 50" 1080p 600Hz Plasma. Now $766 Free Shipping*

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000135024&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAxMzUwMjQ=
Apply Now

*Additional exclusive offers available, search for "December 13 Offer" links on Dec. 13.
$5 off $50 or more

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000155733&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAxNTU3MzM=
Apply Now
30% off your entire order

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000105165&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAxMDUxNjU=
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Free Shipping on all orders

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000100833&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAxMDA4MzM=
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$10 Off orders of $50 or more

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000128083&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAxMjgwODM=
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16% off one item on December 13th

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000106336&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAxMDYzMzY=
Apply Now
http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000128083&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAxMjgwODM=

30% off Xenon Double Puck Light Kit

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000021856&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAwMjE4NTY=
Apply Now
One Day Only SAVE 25% on Gourmet Gifts and Baskets (min $29)

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000220460&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAyMjA0NjA=
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$20 off $100+

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000163085&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAxNjMwODU=
Apply Now
Zenith 50" Plasma HDTV $565.99, save $134

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000074438&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAwNzQ0Mzg=
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10% of $100+

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000001417&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAwMDE0MTc=
Apply Now
Save 20% on Personalized Gifts

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000302833&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAzMDI4MzM=
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Save 20% on Flowers and Gifts $39.99 or more

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000217424&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAyMTc0MjQ=
Apply Now
Free hat/cap with any regular-priced footwear purchase

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000047238&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAwNDcyMzg=
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Save 15% on Unique and Personalized Gifts at RedEnvelope

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000021765&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAwMjE3NjU=
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15% off $100 plus Free Shipping from Road Runner Sports

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000020756&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAwMjA3NTY=
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Sharp 46" LED HDTV $849.99

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000031502&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAwMzE1MDI=
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SAVE 25% on Hand-Dipped Berries and Gifts (min $29)

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000220455&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAyMjA0NTU=
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$10 Off All Orders

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000141742&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAxNDE3NDI=
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$15 off orders of $150 or more

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000201374&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAyMDEzNzQ=
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Save 20% off The Thomas Kinkade Santa's Workshop Bouquet

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000080529&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAwODA1Mjk=
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30% off your entire order

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000135748&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAxMzU3NDg=
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Free Shipping on all orders

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000100846&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAxMDA4NDY=
Apply Now
Mug Mondays - 40% off mugs and coasters

http://www.connectcommerce.com/partner/view_available_client.html?reltype=V&primary=advertisers&ccmid=21000000000105992&invite=MjEwMDAwMDAwMDAxMDU5OTI=
Apply Now

Tracking links will be available on December 6th via the Google Affiliate Network platform in theAnnouncements section within theHome tab. You can also search for "December 13 Offer" links in theLinkssection on December 13th.

The
offers will not be live or valid until December 13th and all offers
will expire at midnight CST. Affiliates may not post offers until
December 13th.

Further questions? Check out our
http://www.google.com/support/affiliatenetwork/
Help Center for answers to frequently asked questions OR feel free to
http://www.google.com/support/affiliatenetwork/bin/request.py
contact us with any questions.

You are subscribed as khuljor@gmail.com to receive
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If you have trouble viewing the images in this newsletter, please add the sender to your "safe senders" list and/or click above to view the newsletter as a web page.

(c) 2010 Google Affiliate Network
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Obama and Republicans agree to negotiate on taxes

"WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Barack Obama and Republican leaders sought to break a "logjam" over the fate of Bush-era tax cuts on Tuesday, forming..."

Click here (http://feeds.reuters.com/~r/reuters/businessNews/~3/wneEMrgLgx8/idUSTRE6A44K020101201) to read the full story

Wikileaks cablegate website comes under attack

"A website set up by Wikileaks to host leaked US diplomatic cables has been the victim of an online attack known as a Denial of Service attack that..."

Click here (http://crave.cnet.co.uk/software/wikileaks-cablegate-website-comes-under-attack-50001841/?s_cid=938) to read the full story

Wal-Mart in Japan insider trading probe: report

"TOKYO (Reuters) - Japanese prosecutors will open an investigation into possible insider trading involving shares of Wal-Mart's Japanese subsidiary..."

Click here (http://feeds.reuters.com/~r/reuters/businessNews/~3/eSv2TQ1gKn4/idUSTRE6AT0QM20101130) to read the full story

Facebook Now Worth $50 Billion In Secondary Trading

"It was just a few weeks ago that Accel Partners sold off around half a billion dollars of Facebook shares at a company valuation of $35 billion. If..."

Click here (http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Techcrunch/~3/9nhvxl2AzOY/) to read the full story

Stop whining about sanctions, Zim told

THE World Trade Organisation (WTO) has challenged Zimbabwe to take advantage
of its membership and stop mourning about sanctions imposed by the West.

President Robert Mugabe and Zanu PF argue that Western sanctions were the
largest contributor to the country's unprecedented economic collapse.

Keith Rockwell, the WTO director for information and external relations told
a workshop jointly hosted by the body and the Friederich Ebert Stiftung
Foundation that despite the restrictions, Zimbabwe can still sell its goods
and services to any country.

"As a member of the WTO, Zimbabwe is able to enjoy the rights of all
members," Rockwell said.

"What this means in practice is that WTO members cannot discriminate against
Zimbabwe's trade in goods and services."

"Zimbabwe has access to the dispute settlement system which means it can
defend its rights through our binding system of dispute resolution."

Rockwell said Zimbabwe was involved at every level of the WTO's discussions
on trade policy and ongoing Doha round of talks.

The United States and the European Union (EU) have repeatedly dismissed
accusations that the sanctions targeted at Mugabe and his inner circle were
behind Zimbabwe's economic collapse.

British Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Mark Canning on Tuesday told journalists in
Harare that the so-called sanctions impact one in every 70 000 of Zimbabwe's
population.
"They played no role in the economic chaos of the past, indeed if they did
how is it that the economy is now growing for the first time since 1997,"
Canning said.

"Would the UK really be pouring all this money into the country if it was
simultaneously undermining the economy at the same time?

Zimbabwe's trade promotion body, Zimtrade, has in the past called on local
businesses to be proactive on issues relating to international trade
agreements so that they can take advantage of export opportunities.

Some of the agreements, which are regulated by the WTO, are increasingly
determining the direction of global trade.

Rockwell said developing countries including Zimbabwe can take up trade
disputes with developed countries to the WTO for arbitration and win the
cases. At least 70% of WTO members are developing countries.

Meanwhile, participants at the workshop noted that all was not well in the
WTO as more developing countries were resorting to bilateral trade
agreements.

They attributed the growing phenomenon to the lack of progress in the Doha
round of negotiations.

Zimbabwe last year signed a bilateral trade agreement with South Africa and
is ready to sign another one with Botswana to enhance trade and investment
with its neighbours.

The experts said they foresee bilateralism becoming the preferred method of
business and trade between various countries in the regions as
multilateralism was getting more complex.

They said multilateralism involved serious power play between the bigger
nations.
"Many regional African organisations are moving towards deeper integration
in terms of trade and customs," said Prega Ramsamy, the head of Business for
Development Southern Africa Trust.

"Integration deepens political and regional co-operation, enhances export
and investment opportunities and increases market size and that's why we are
seeing a proliferation of regional agreements," he explained.

Deeper integration however, would mean yielding part of a county's power and
sovereignty to the regional institutions like Sadc.

Ramsamy said most African countries were not yet ready to compromise on
their sovereignty.

The US on Zimbabwe, Mugabe, Tsvangirai and Ncube

International wesbite Wikileaks has begun releasing more than 250 000 documents detailing correspondence between the US State Department and Washington's various embassies around the world.

The 251 287 documents previously unavailable to the public and all of which are classified either confidential or secret focus on US policy and diplomatic relations between the world's sole superpower and countries in the Middle East, sub-Saharan Africa and elsewhere.

And below is a document filed by headquarters by the then US ambassador to Zimbabwe Christopher Dell in 2007. The document gives insights into US thinking and objectives on Zimbabwe as well as Washington's opinion about the leading political players in the southern African country:

Date 2007-07-13 10:04:00

C O N F I D E N T I A L SECTION 01 OF 04 HARARE 000638

SUBJECT: The End is Nigh

Classified By: Ambassador Christopher W. Dell under Section 1.4b/d

Having said my piece repeatedly over the last three years, I won't offer a lengthy prescription for our Zimbabwe policy. My views can be stated very simply as stay the course and prepare for change. Our policy is working and it's helping to drive change here. What is required is simply the grit, determination and focus to see this through. Then, when the changes finally come we must be ready to move quickly to help consolidate the new dispensation.

THE SITUATION

Robert Mugabe has survived for so long because he is more clever and more ruthless than any other politician in Zimbabwe. To give the devil his due, he is a brilliant tactician and has long thrived on his ability to abruptly change the rules of the game, radicalise the political dynamic and force everyone else to react to his agenda.

However, he is fundamentally hampered by several factors: his ego and belief in his own infallibility; his obsessive focus on the past as a justification for everything in the present and future; his deep ignorance on economic issues (coupled with the belief that his 18 doctorates give him the authority to suspend the laws of economics, including supply and demand); and his essentially short-term, tactical style.

While his tactical skills have kept him in power for 27 years, over the last seven this has only been achieved by a series of populist, but destructive and ultimately self-defeating moves. In reaction to losing the 2000 referendum on the constitution, a vengeful Mugabe unleashed his Green Bombers to commit land reform and in the process he destroyed Zimbabwe's agricultural sector, once the bedrock of the economy.

While thousands of white farmers saw their properties seized, hundreds of thousands of black Zimbabweans lost their livelihoods and were reduced to utter poverty. In 2005, having been forced to steal victory by manipulating the results of an election he lost, Mugabe lashed out again, punishing the urban populace by launching Operation Murambatsvina. The result was wholesale destruction of the informal sector, on which as much as 70-80 percent of urban dwellers had depended, and the uprooting of 700,000 Zimbabweans. The current inflationary cycle really began with Murambatsvina, as rents and prices grew in response to a decrease in supply.

And now, faced with the hyperinflationary consequences of his ruinous fiscal policies and growing reliance on the printing press to keep his government running, Mugabe has launched Operation Slash Prices. This has once again given him a very temporary boost in popularity especially among the police, who have led the looting of retail outlets and now seem well positioned to take a leading role in the black market economy) at the cost of terrible damage to the country and people.

Many small grocery and shop owners, traders, etc., will be wiped out; the shelves are increasingly bare; hunger, fear, and tension are growing; fuel has disappeared. When the shelves are still empty this time next week, the popular appeal of the price roll back will evaporate and the government simply doesn't have the resources to replace the entire private commercial sector and keep Zimbabweans fed. It may attempt to do so by printing more money, adding even more inflationary pressure on a system already reeling from the GOZ's quasi-fiscal lunacy combined with the price impact of pervasive shortages.

The increasingly worthless Zim dollar is likely to collapse as a unit of trade in the near future, depriving the Government of Zimbabwe of its last economic tool other than sheer thuggery and theft of others' assets.

With all this in view, I'm convinced the end is not far off for the Mugabe regime. Of course, my predecessors and many other observers have all said the same thing, and yet Mugabe is still with us. I think this time could prove different, however, because for the first time the president is under intensifying pressure simultaneously on the economic, political and international fronts.

In the past, he could always play one of these off against the other, using economic moves to counter political pressure or playing the old colonial/race/imperialist themes to buy himself breathing room regionally and internationally. But he is running out of options and in the swirling gases of the new Zimbabwean constellation that is starting to form, the economic, political and international pressures are concentrating on Mugabe himself.

Our Zanu PF contacts are virtually unanimous in saying reform is desperately needed, but won't happen while the Old Man is there, and therefore he must go (finding the courage to make that happen is another matter, however, but even that may be coming closer).

This is not some sudden awakening on the road to Damascus, but a reflection of the pain even party insiders increasingly feel over the economic meltdown. We also get regular, albeit anecdotal, reports of angry and increasingly open mutterings against Mugabe even in ZANU-PF's traditional rural bastions.

Beginning in March, the other SADC leaders finally recognised (in the wake of the terrible beatings of March 11 and the international outcry that followed another self-inflicted wound for Mugabe) that Zimbabwe is a problem they need to address.

Thabo Mbeki appears committed to a successful mediation and is reportedly increasingly irritated with Mugabe's efforts to manipulate him or blow him off altogether. If Mugabe judges that he still commands all he surveys by virtue of being the elder statesman on the scene, he may be committing yet another serious blunder.

Finally, one does well to recall that the only serious civil disturbances here in a decade came in 1998 over bread shortages, showing that even the famously passive Shona people have their limits. The terror and oppression of the intervening years have cowed people, but it's anyone's guess whether their fear or their anger will win out in the end.

WHAT WILL THE END LOOK LIKE?

This is the big, unanswerable question. One thing at least is certain, Mugabe will not wake up one morning a changed man, resolved to set right all he has wrought. He will not go quietly nor without a fight. He will cling to power at all costs and the costs be damned, he deserves to rule by virtue of the liberation struggle and land reform and the people of Zimbabwe have let him down by failing to appreciate this, thus he needn't worry about their well-being.

The only scenario in which he might agree to go with a modicum of good grace is one in which he concludes that the only way to end his days a free man is by leaving State House. I judge that he is still a long way from this conclusion and will fight on for now.

The optimal outcome, of course, and the only one that doesn't bring with it a huge risk of violence and conflict, is a genuinely free and fair election, under international supervision. The Mbeki mediation offers the best, albeit very slim, hope of getting there.

However, as Pretoria grows more and more worried about the chaos to its north and President Mbeki's patience with Mugabe's antics wears thin, the prospects for serious South African engagement may be growing. Thus, this effort deserves all the support and backing we can muster.

Less attractive is the idea of a South African-brokered transitional arrangement or government of national unity. Mbeki has always favored stability and in his mind this means a Zanu PF-led GNU, with perhaps a few MDC additions. This solution is more likely to prolong than resolve the crisis and we must guard against letting Pretoria dictate an outcome which perpetuates the status quo at the expense of real change and reform.

The other scenarios are all less attractive: a popular uprising would inevitably entail a bloodbath, even if it were ultimately successful; Mugabe's sudden, unexpected death would set off a stampede for power among Zanu PF heavy weights; a palace coup, whether initiated within Zanu PF or from the military -- in which Mugabe is removed, killed, exiled or otherwise disposed of, could well devolve into open conflict between the contending successors.

Similarly, some form of "constitutional coup" i.e., a change at the top engineered within the framework of Zanu PF's "legitimate" structures could well prove to be merely the opening bell in a prolonged power struggle. None of the players is likely to go quietly into the night without giving everything they have, including calling on their supporters in the security services. Moreover, experience elsewhere would suggest that whoever comes out on top initially will struggle, and more than likely fail, to halt the economic collapse. Thus, there is a good prospect of not one but a series of rapid-fire transitions, until some new, stable dispensation is reached.

The final, and probably worst, possibility is that Mugabe concludes he can settle for ruling over a rump Zimbabwe, maintaining control over Harare and the MaShona heartland, the critical forces of the National Reserve Force and CIO and a few key assets gold, diamonds, platinum and Air Zimbabwe to fund the good times. Under this scenario, the rest of the country, in one of the comrade's favorite phrases, could "go hang", leaving it to the international community to stave off the worst humanitarian consequences.

WHAT OF THE OPPOSITION?

Zimbabwe's opposition is far from ideal and I leave convinced that had we had different partners, we could have achieved more already. But you have to play the hand you're dealt. With that in mind, the current leadership has little executive experience and will require massive hand holding and assistance should they ever come to power.

Morgan Tsvangarai is a brave, committed man and, by and large, a democrat. He is also the only player on the scene right now with real star quality and the ability to rally the masses. But Tsvangirai is also a flawed figure, not readily open to advice, indecisive and with questionable judgment in selecting those around him. He is the indispensable element for opposition success, but possibly an albatross around their necks once in power. In short, he is a kind of Lech Walesa character: Zimbabwe needs him, but should not rely on his executive abilities to lead the country's recovery.

Arthur Mutambara is young and ambitious, attracted to radical, anti-western rhetoric and smart as a whip. But, in many respects he's a light-weight who has spent too much time reading U.S. campaign messaging manuals and too little thinking about the real issues.

Welshman Ncube has proven to be a deeply divisive and destructive player in the opposition ranks and the sooner he is pushed off the stage, the better. But he is useful to many, including the regime and South Africa, so is probably a cross to be borne for some time yet. The prospects for healing the rift within the MDC seem dim, which is a totally unnecessary self-inflicted wound on their part this time.

With few exceptions -- Tendai Biti, Nelson Chamisa -- the talent is thin below the top ranks. The great saving grace of the opposition is likely to be found in the Diaspora. Most of Zimbabwe's best professionals, entrepreneurs, businessmen and women, etc., have fled the country. They are the opposition's natural allies and it is encouraging to see signs, particularly in South Africa and the UK, that these people are talking, sharing ideas, developing plans and thinking together about future recovery.

Unfortunately, among the MDC's flaws is its inability to work more effectively with the rest of civil society. The blame for this can be shared on both sides (many civil society groups, like the NCA, are single-issue focused and take the overall dynamic in unhelpful directions; others, like WOZA, insist on going it alone as a matter of principle), but ultimately it falls to the MDC as the largest and the only true political party, to show the way.

Once again, however, these are natural allies and they have more reason to work together than fight against each other.

STAYING THE COURSE, PREPARING FOR CHANGE

If I am right and change is in the offing, we need to step up our preparations. The work done over the last year on transition planning has been extremely useful, both for stimulating a fresh look at our own assumptions and plans and for forging a common approach among the traditional donor community. But the process has lagged since the meetings in March in London and should be re-energised.

It is encouraging in this respect that USAID Washington has engaged the Mission here in discussing how we would use additional resources in response to a genuinely reform-minded government. I hope this will continue and the good work done so far will survive the usual bloodletting of the budget process.

The official media has had a field day recently whooping that "Dell leaves Zimbabwe a failed man". That's not quite how it looks from here. I believe that the firm U.S. stance, the willingness to speak out and stand up, have contributed to the accelerating pace of change. Mugabe and his henchman are like bullies everywhere: if they can intimidate you they will. But they're not used to someone standing up to them and fighting back. It catches them off guard and that's when they make mistakes.

The howls of protest over critical statements from Washington or negative coverage on CNN are the clearest proof of how this hurts them. Ditto the squeals over illegal sanctions. In addition, the regime has become so used to calling the shots and dictating the pace that the merest stumble panics them. Many local observers have noted that Mugabe is panicked and desperate about hyperinflation at the moment, and hence he's making mistakes. Possibly fatal mistakes.

We need to keep the pressure on in order to keep Mugabe off his game and on his back foot, relying on his own shortcomings to do him in. Equally important is an active U.S. leadership role in the international community. The UK is ham-strung by its colonial past and domestic politics, thus, letting them set the pace alone merely limits our effectiveness. The EU is divided between the hard north and its soft southern underbelly. The Africans are only now beginning to find their voice. Rock solid partners like Australia don't pack enough punch to step out front and the UN is a non-player. Thus it falls to the U.S., once again, to take the lead, to say and do the hard things and to set the agenda.

Hundreds, maybe thousands, of ordinary Zimbabweans of all kinds have told me that our clear, forthright stance has given them hope and the courage to hang on. By this regime's standards, acting in the interests of the people may indeed be considered a failure. But I believe that the opposite is true, and that we can be justifiably proud that in Zimbabwe we have helped advance the President's freedom agenda. The people of this country know it and recognise it and that is the true touchstone of our success here. DELL

Report casts doubt on Mbeki's neutrality on Zim

Former president Thabo Mbeki had a bias for Zanu-PF during his time as
mediator between Zimbabwe's ruling party and opposition Movement for
Democratic Change (MDC), United States embassy documents have revealed.

During the past weekend whistleblower website WikiLeaks released 250 000
documents, consisting of US diplomatic and intelligence reports, to five
international newspapers, sending shockwaves through the international
diplomatic community.

Included in these documents is a report by US ambassador to Zimbabwe
Christopher Dell in 2007, marked "confidential", which sheds light on the US
strategy in Zimbabwe, as well as Mbeki's role.

It shows, for the first time, that Mbeki may not have been a neutral broker
during the negotiations process, which he was mandated by the Southern
African Development Community (SADC) to take charge of.

"Mbeki has always favored [sic] stability and in his mind this means a
Zanu-PF led GNU [government of national unity], with perhaps a few MDC
additions. This solution is more likely to prolong than resolve the crisis
and we must guard against letting Pretoria dictate an outcome which
perpetuates the status quo at the expense of real change and reform," Dell
wrote in his report.

Dell's report was written shortly after then-US president George Bush
declared Mbeki as his "point man in Africa".

Behind the scenes, MDC activists claimed that during the negotiations
process Mbeki had favoured president Robert Mugabe's Zanu-PF, but this is
the first time the issue is stated in official documents.

Flawed figure
In his assessment of MDC leader Morgan Tsvangirai, Dell said he was the
"only player on the scene right now with real star quality and the ability
to rally the masses".

But, he said, Tsvangirai was a flawed figure.

"[He is] not readily open to advice, indecisive and with questionable
judgment in selecting those around him. He is the indispensable element for
opposition success, but possibly an albatross around their necks once in
power. Zimbabwe needs him, but should not rely on his executive abilities to
lead the country's recovery," Dell warned.

According to Dell, the amount of talented individuals in the MDC was
limited.

"With few exceptions -- [finance minister] Tendayi (sic) Biti and
[communications minister] Nelson Chamisa is the talent thin below the top
ranks. The great saving grace of the opposition is likely to be found in the
diaspora."

Dell pulled no punches when he assessed Mugabe.

"To give the devil his due, he is a brilliant tactician and has long thrived
on his ability to abruptly change the rules of the game. However, he is
fundamentally hampered by several factors: his ego and belief in his own
infallibility; his obsessive focus on the past as a justification for
everything in the present and the future; his deep ignorance on economic
issues (coupled with the belief that his 18 doctorates give him authority to
suspend the laws of economics, including supply and demand); and his
essentially short-term tactical style."

Wikileaks report: Tsvangirai gets fairly favaourable appraisal from the US

THE United States believes Morgan Tsvangirai is a is a brave, committed man
and, by and large, a democrat, and in a well balanced assesment its former
ambassador to Zimbabwe also found him to be "a flawed figure, indecisive and
with questionable judgment", according to a leaked secret cable published by
Wikileaks.

This is contrary to Zanu PF media reports cranking up the propaganda that
says "US expresses doubts on the PM".

"Morgan Tsvangarai is a brave, committed man and, by and large, a democrat.　
He is also the only player on the scene right now with real star quality and
the ability to rally the masses.　 But Tsvangarai is also a flawed figure,
not readily open to advice, indecisive and with questionable judgment in
selecting those around him.　

He is the indispensable element for opposition success, but possibly an
albatross around t heir necks once in power.　 In short, he is a kind of Lech
Walesa character:　 Zimbabwe needs him, but should not rely on his executive
abilities to lead the country's recovery.　

Arthur Mutambara is young and ambitious, attracted to radical, anti-western
rhetoric and smart as a whip.　

But, in many respects he's a light-weight who has spent too much time
reading U.S. campaign messaging manuals and too little thinking about the
real issues.　

Welshman Ncube has proven to be a deeply divisive and destructive player in
the opposition ranks and the sooner he is pushed off the stage, the better.　
But he is useful to many, including the regime and South Africa, so is
probably a cross to be borne for some time yet.　 The prospects for healing
the rift within the MDC seem dim, which is a totally unnecessary
self-inflicted wound on their part this time.　

With few exceptions Tendayi Biti, Nelson Chamisa 　the talent is thin below
the top ranks.

The great saving grace of the opposition is likely to be found in the
diaspora.　 Most of Zimbabwe's best professionals, entrepreneurs, businessmen
and women, etc., have fled the country.　 They are the opposition's natural
allies and it is encouraging to see signs, particularly in South Africa and
the UK, that these people are talking, 　sharing ideas, developing plans and
thinking together about future recovery.　　

Unfortunately, among the MDC's flaws is its inability to work more
effectively with the rest of civil society.　 The blame for this can be
shared on both sides (many civil society groups, like the NCA, are
single-issue focused and take the overall dynamic in unhelpful directions;
others, like WOZA, insist on going it alone as a matter of principle), but
ultimately it falls to the MDC as the largest and the only true political
party, to show the way.　 Once again, however, these are natural allies and
they have more reason to work together than fight against each other.