Not to mention we have a very active society in which NGOs and ordinary citizens participate. I read a while ago that the tragedy that is Zimbabwe was allowed to happen because people (mainly whites) were told there was nothing to worry about, that no one was coming for their money or their lives.

So they erected walls around their property and put their heads down and carried on like nothing had or was going to change. Except it did change, subtly whilst no one was looking. And then it was too late.

I don't blame anyone for wanting to live their lives without needing to be involved in making sure things don't go pear-shaped; unfortunately, it's not a luxury we can afford. We have to be aware and be prepared to fight the good fight when necessary.

"The price of freedom is eternal vigilance" - never forget those words.