afrol News, 30 January - Zimbabwe's main opposition leader, Morgan Tsvangirai has finally agreed to join the unity government after a serious persuasion by Southern African leaders seeking Mr Tsvangirai to be sworn in as president by 11 February.

The Movement for Democratic Change leader announced new developments after the top leadership of the MDC met in the capital, Harare, to discuss the idea of unity government.

Mr Tsvangirai had earlier defied and rejected Southern African leaders proposal for the formation of government early next month, unless the outstanding issues were resolved between all concerned stakeholders.

Amongst the issues of concern was the allocation of key ministerial positions, especially the home affairs ministry, which controls the police, that has delayed the formation of unity government despite the deal being signed in September 2008.

"Cognizant of the poverty and suffering of the people of Zimbabwe, the party has resolved to reinstate its commitment to the inclusive government," Mr Tsvangirai said after the meeting today.

He however said the party has also resolved that there has to be a settlement and agreement to the outstanding issues.

Mr Tsvangirai said MDC will write a letter to regional heads of state stating the party's position on the equitable and fair distribution of ministerial portfolios and requesting a resolution before 11 February.

The MDC said it is also concerned that the issue of the unwarranted and illegal abductions and detentions of MDC members and other democratic activists, needed to be addressed as a matter of urgency, to ensure an end to the persecution of all Zimbabweans.

"We hope that the MDC will be respected as an equal partner to resolve the poverty and suffering of the people of Zimbabwe and hope that the country can have hope for the future," Mr Tsvangirai also added.

Mr Tsvangirai won the most votes in the March 29 polls but not enough to avoid a runoff, according to the government's official count. President Mugabe then won the runoff, but only after Mr Tsvangirai withdrew, accusing Mr Mugabe supporters of intimidation, murder and violence.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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