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Zim run-off poll 'no solution'
10/06/2008 13:40 - (SA)
Johannesburg - There is "no hope" that a free and fair run-off election could take place in Zimbabwe on June 27, previous presidential candidate Simba Makoni says.
Briefing media in Johannesburg, Makoni said the country and the people could not afford another election and reiterated the call for a transitional government of national unity.
He said the current environment of instability and violence was not conducive to a free and fair election. "We are convinced that the last thing Zimbabwe and the people need is another election.
"Between now and June 27 we believe that an election cannot be conducted ... the people will be short-changed."
Makoni said that negotiations between Zanu-PF and the MDC were taking place and both leaders - Robert Mugabe and Morgan Tsvangirai respectively - agreed that a transitional government would resolve the problem in Zimbabwe.
"The only point of departure is who will lead us ... who will be the top person."
Makoni said it was inappropriate at this time to show support for either candidate but said that a transitional government would comprise of leadership from both constituencies.
When asked about the role South African President Thabo Mbeki had played as the SADC appointed mediator, he said it would not help to start "throwing stones, accusations and allegations".
"He (Mbeki) is one who is trying his best under the circumstances to assist us."
He said the problem was in Zimbabwe - and while leaders outside the region were in a position to help the country - it needed to help itself first.
- SAPA
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