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30 May 2008
Former Finance Minister Simba Makoni who came third in Zimbabwe's Presidential election with 7 percent of the votes has called for the presidential run-off vote between Morgan Tsvangirai and Robert Mugabe to be scrapped.
Speaking to journalists on Thursday Makoni argued that because of the violence rocking Zimbabwe countrywide, a unity government was the only way forward. "The country does not need another election at this time," he said. "Besides, the violence now gripping the country bodes ill for a free and fair election."
Makoni however tied himself in a political knot by claiming he was not endorsing either Tsvangirai or Mugabe when a few weeks after the election he said it was automatic his Mavambo project would throw in their lot with Tsvangirai in the event of a run-off.
Even the Mutambara faction of the MDC that put its weight behind Makoni in the first round has made it clear it will support Tsvangirai in the June 27 run-off. Political analysts say Makoni is desperately trying to create room for himself in a post-Mugabe era and wants to sell the idea of a government of national unity in which he will be Prime Minister.
"It makes sense for him to call for a scrapping of the run-off because he came third in the first round and sees himself being relegated to oblivion if the second round takes off,' one journalist told Nehanda Radio.
"The problem for him however is that no one is taking him seriously anymore. To call for a scrapping of an election because of violence that is being perpetrated by people you are pictured sharing a laugh with simply reflects on the guy's insanity and lust for power,' the journalist added.
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Nehanda Radio: Zimbabwe's first 24 hour internet radio news channel.
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