Zimbabwe talks focus on power sharing structure

Formal talks between Zanu-PF and the Movement for Democratic Change began in Pretoria yesterday, and were expected to focus on the structure of a power-sharing government for Zimbabwe.

The talks were being held at a secret location in an effort by the South African President Thabo Mbeki to allow the deliberations to take place away from the media spotlight.

A source close to the talks said: "There is consensus that we perhaps should seek a deal on the structure of a government first as that is naturally the most contentious matter.

"Once that is done, the rest of the issues may follow... Our economy is now stupid. Everyone realises that."

Robert Mugabe – who won the second round of presidential voting in which he was the only candidate – was said not to be prepared to relinquish much power to his rival, Morgan Tsvangirai, who won the first ballot as well as the parliamentary poll.

The most likely outcome, sources said, is that Mr Mugabe would retain the presidency, though stripped of some of this powers, while Mr Tsvangirai would become prime minister. "I don't know who will carry the adjective of executive but I think it's almost definite that we will eventually have a president and prime minister sharing power," said a Zimbabwean politician, who did not want to be named.

Zanu-PF is represented by the Justice Minister, Patrick Chinamasa, and the Labour Minister, Nicholas Goche. The main wing of the MDC is represented by Tendai Biti and Elton Mangoma, while the smaller faction is represented by Welshman Ncube and Priscilla Misihairabwi. Civil society groups are angry at being excluded.