The real question concerning Zimbabwe dictator Robert Mugabe’s honorary degree is why was it awarded in the first place? During the 1980s, prior to the award, Mugabe was linked to the ethnic massacre of more than 20,000 civilians. In addition, his election as prime minister was tainted by widespread fraud. Today, Mugabe is responsible for the complete destruction of Zimbabwe’s economy, mass starvation and persecution of political opposition leaders.

MSU’s honorary degree committee made an extremely poor decision 18 years ago. The university continues to make a mistake by refusing to revoke this ruthless despot’s degree.