afrol News, 1 April - Zimbabwe's main opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) has so far led both the presidential and legislative contests, authoritative sources confirmed.

MDC leader, Morgan Tsvangirai, has polled 51% compared to President Robert Mugabe's 42%. The opposition party also grabbed 53% of the parliamentary seats while the ruling Zanu-PF 42%. The MDC breakaway polled five seats.

Sources however said there will likely be a run-off between Mugabe and Tsvangirai. If that is the case, the electoral commission is constitutionally mandated to organize elections within two weeks.

Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) is yet to publish the official presidential results, three days after voting, leaving people with suspicion that the delay was meant to steal the polls in favour of Mr Mugabe.

ZEC officials said the delay was necessary for the collation and verification of the results.

A spokesman of Zanu-PF said Mr Mugabe was leading the polls, but would accept defeat as well.

International community’s reaction to the delay has been swift.

European Union Foreign Ministers urged the electoral commission to "swiftly announce all official election results, especially the results of the presidential election."

Officials of both London and Washington warned against vote rigging, insisting respect for the will of the people. British Prime Minister said Zimbabwean authorities need to understand that the world's lenses were focused on their country during this crucial period.

Mugabe, who has been in power since the country gained independence from Britain in 1980, is believed to be under growing pressure to recognize defeat. MDC leadership is reported to have held talks with security chiefs on the issue.

The 84-year-old leader had remained silent since polling day, prompting speculations that he might have fled to Malaysia. But Mugabe’s party officials denied such allegations, although they would not disclose his whereabouts.

MDC leadership said its mission is far from revenging on the gross violations of rights committed by the Mugabe regime. Instead they promise to "let bygones be bygones."

By staff writer

© afrol News

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