The deal struck between Robert Mugabe and Morgan Tsvangirai to share power in Zimbabwe is fragile and cumbersome. Mr Mugabe, the man who has presided over the economic collapse of the country, and a reign of terror waged against many of its inhabitants, will remain head of state. But he will be forced to share his authority with Mr Tsvangirai, leader of the opposition Movement for Democratic Change, who becomes executive prime minister. The two despise each other, and may prove incapable of working together. For now, however, it is the only deal Zimbabwe has got.

Each side claims victory, a credit to the negotiating skills of Thabo Mbeki, South Africa’s president. He has persevered with his efforts to reach a deal against the odds. But if each thinks he is in charge, it could be a recipe for chaos in government.