Zimbabwe power sharing deal

Morgan Tsvangirai, Movement For Democratic Change (Mdc) Leader saying (English):

"I just want to say that President Mbeki is going to give a press statement but I can say that we got a deal".

Those words from Morgan Tsvangirai confirming Zimbabwe's opposition party, the Movement for Democratic Change and the ruling ZANU-PF have at last reached a deal to share power.

The two parties have been locked in talks for four days with South Africa's President, Thabo Mbeki, acting as mediator.

SOUNDBITE: South African President Thabo Mbeki saying (English):

"The government of Zimbabwe with the support of the region and the African continent, will from then onwards work very hard to mobilise support from the region, from the African continent and the rest of the world, necessary support that is needed to assist the people of Zimbabwe."

The Movement for Democratic change won an initial election in March but failed to secure an outright victory.

Tsvangirai pulled out of the presidential run-off three months later citing election rigging.

Since then the two sides have been unable to agree on power sharing.

There's been no comment from Mugabe so far.

It's thought he'll remain President but in a more cermonial role while Tsvangirai becomes Prime Minister.

Mebeki said a formal signing ceremony was expected on Monday.

The agreement opens the way for the international community to step in and help revive Zimbabwe's economy.

Hayley Platt Reuters.

onwards Moving or tending forward.
rig manipulate in a fraudulent manner

step in

1. To enter into an activity or a situation.

2. To intervene.