ZIMBABWE IS AN EMBARASSMENT TO AFRICA

President Mwanawasa is worried about neighbouring Zimbabwe where the opposition MDC has pulled out of the June 27 polls. Mr Mwanawasa listens to journalists during a press conference at State House.

Dr Mwanawasa said Zimbabwe is a gross embarassment to the SADC region and Africa at large. Dr Mwanawasa in the past also described Zimbabwe as a sinking titanic. Kenya's Prime Minister Raila Odinga last week said Zimbabwe was an eyesore on the African continent.
During the presse conference at State House, Dr Mwanawasa indicated that the SADC was divided on Zimbabwe. He also expressed idssapointment at Zimbabwe mediator and South African President Tabo Mbeki's failure to avail him with information about his assignment on Zimbabwe.
"I have been relying on intelligence information and media reports," Dr Mwanawasa said.
Dr Mwanawasa called for the postponement of the election re-run because the environment fell short of minimum standards to hold such crucial polls.