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Political Analysts Offer Caveats On Zimbabwe Power-Sharing Deal


Zimbabwean and regional political observers offered mixed opinions on Friday as to the chances for success of the national unity government resulting from the power-sharing deal struck Thursday in Harare by the ZANU-PF party of President Robert Mugabe and the Movement for Democratic Change of Morgan Tsvangirai.

Reporter Carole Gombakomba of VOA's Studio 7 for Zimbabwe sought the perspectives of independent South African-based analyst Hermann Hanekom and Professor John Makumbe of the University of Zimbabwe.

Makumbe said the accord is a step in the right direction, but warned that those involved should carefully consider its terms before signing it on Monday. He said the MDC should be commended for insisting on a comprehensive and detailed agreement at a time when Mr. Mugabe's ZANU-PF party is reluctantly accepting the need for reform.

Zimbabwean Clever Mtiba of the Harare suburb of Dzivarasekwa told reporter Marvellous Mhlanga-Nyahuye that he hopes the deal will help the economy. Another VOA listener in Mutare, who gave his name as Bamu, said he hopes to see national reconciliation.

More reports from VOA's Studio 7 for Zimbabwe...

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