afrol News, 14 October - Crisis negotiations to end stale-mate in Zimbabwe's power-sharing deal have begun today, ahead of first session of opposition-controlled parliament.

President Robert Mugabe and opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai reportedly met with former South African president Thabo Mbeki, who flew into Zimbabwean capital late last night to mediate talks.

A source in Mr Mbeki's camp has announced that he (Mr Mbeki) is confident that deal could be rescued.

"We are convinced that we should be able in end, no matter how long it takes, to reach a conclusion," source reportedly said.

Agreement stalled after Mr Mugabe unilaterally allocated key cabinet posts to members of his ruling Zanu-PF party, forcing Mr Tsvangirai to threaten to pull out of negotiations and unity government.

Movement for Democratic Change leader has said he would not join an administration in which Mr Mugabe retained control of all major ministries.

Without opposition leader's participation, there is little chance of a government being recognised outside Zimbabwe.

Mr Mugabe's moves have prompted widespread condemnation. United Kingdom foreign secretary, David Miliband yesterday called for a united international response, saying: "Results of elections need to be respected and a power grab will not be respected."

Fellow European Union (EU) foreign ministers who reportedly maintained that sanctions would not be lifted until power-sharing deal was implemented echoed Mr Miliband's views.

French foreign minister, Bernard Kouchner, said, "We are worried about situation and will certainly not abandon Mr Tsvangirai".

Politicians in opposition-dominated parliament today met for first time since its official opening last month when Mr Mugabe was reportedly taunted by opposition MPs.

No details about the agenda were immediately available. First sitting of a new session routinely starts with a debate on Mr Mugabe's comments at official opening.

In March elections, opposition narrowly won control of 210-seat parliament for first time since independence in 1980.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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