Regret

The opposition Movement for Democratic Change expressed regret at the African Union resolution on Zimbabwe calling for a government of national unity. The MDC charged that the AU failed to denounce the ongoing violence and seemed to recognise the government of Mugabe. Furthermore, the MDC called for an expanded mediation team. Tsvangirai and his team therefore boycotteed the talks organised by President Mbeki to which Mugabe and the MDC faction led by Mutambara attended. Earlier Mugabe hinted that the MDC needed to accept his legitimacy as President if successful talks were to prevail. In the meantime , there was confusion as to the life of the current chairman of SADC President Mwanawasa as he was reported dead, only for the government of Zambia to refute those reports as false. He is reported to be in a stable condition. President Mwanawasa has been critical of the Zimbabwe crisis. Meanwhile Britain ponders the deportation of more than 11000 zimbabweans seeking refuge in that country. Back home, they face starvation, victimisation and torture.