Robert Mugabe has long defied political gravity. But even the most tenacious autocrats eventually land with a bump. It is tempting to think that time is approaching for Zimbabwe’s 84-year-old leader. This Saturday’s elections may not end his rule directly or prevent him taking Zimbabwe further down with him. Mr Mugabe faces the choice between continuing in State House, where he hopes to retain influence over his succession, or humiliation and even jail. For that reason he will use all means at his disposal to ensure the vote count goes his way.

However, the corner he finds himself in is tighter than it has been in previous polls and the political climate more volatile than ever. The old liberation-era rhetoric, blaming Britain for his country’s proliferating woes, has limited appeal for a desperate population.