MDC says regional observers enough for run-off

The leader of Zimbabwe's main opposition group said today he would contest a presidential run-off against veteran President Robert Mugabe even if only regional observers could be present. Morgan Tsvangirai had previously called for unfettered access for international observers, which the government rejected.

"At the moment the obligation is on the (regional group) the Southern African Development Community (SADC). I am sure that they will fulfill their obligations, especially to send SADC peacekeepers and observers," Movement for Democratic Change leader Tsvangirai told Reuters in a telephone interview. "For us that is sufficient." Asked how long he was willing to wait for a run-off, after electoral authorities said there would likely be a delay, he said:

"The thing is that the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, if it has to extend the time of a run-off, it has to do so within a reasonable period. I'm sure that SADC will also be pressurising them to set a date." - Reuters