Tsvangirai drops foreign observer demands

Updated 11.51 Tue May 13 2008

Keywords: Zimbabwe, Morgan Tsvangirai, Robert Mugabe

Zimbabwean opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai has agreed to contest a presidential run-off against veteran President Robert Mugabe even if only regional observers are present.

Mr Tsvangirai's previous call for unfettered access for international observers was rejected by the government, sparking more accusations that Mr Mugabe was trying to intimidate voters and rig the poll.

The MDC has accused the ruling ZANU-PF party of using violence and intimidation against its supporters ahead of the run-off

The Movement for Democratic Change leader has now pledged to go ahead with just Southern African Development Community officials in attendance.

He said: "At the moment the obligation is on the Southern African Development Community.

"I am sure that they will fulfil their obligations, especially to send SADC peacekeepers and observers. For us that is sufficient."

After weeks of equivocation, Mr Tsvangirai said at the weekend he would participate in the run-off to the disputed March 29 polls, but only if international monitors would be present.

Mr Mugabe's government dismissed any pre-conditions for the run-off but allowed the SADC to monitor the election's first round.

The MDC has accused the ruling Zanu-PF party of using violence and intimidation against its supporters ahead of the run-off, which could unseat Mr Mugabe after nearly 30 years in power.