Last Rhodesian Prime Minister Dies

Ian Smith, age 88, ruled the country now known as Zimbabwe. He was the last white prime minister whose attempt to resist black rule dragged the country now known as Zimbabwe into isolation and civil war. He has now died. He recently suffered a stroke and died at a clinic near Cape Town, South Africa, where he spent his final years with his family and long time friend, Sam Whaley, who was a senator in the former Rodesia.

Putin Eyes Prime Minister's Job

Russian President, Vladimir Putin has raised the possibility of becoming a future prime minister by agreeing to enter the December parliamentary polls. Mr. Putin, who must leave office as president next year, said suggestions he might seek to become Russian prime minister were entirely realistic. He said he accepted the proposal by the United Russia to head the party's list, without becoming a member. By being on the list he is guaranteed a seat in the next parliament.