Opposition Plans Zimbabwe Rallies

The Zimbabwean opposition leader, Morgan Tsvangirai, said yesterday that his party would lead thousands of people in protest against President Robert Mugabe's government within weeks, following the collapse of its talks with the governing party, Zanu-PF.

"Mass action is inevitable and unavoidable," he told the Guardian. "We have come to a stage where non-violent action has to be taken. The assessment we have from consulting with the people is that they are prepared to protest against this illegitimate government."

The call to the streets is a new step for Mr Tsvangirai, and is expected to increase the tension in Zimbabwe. He said the protests would take place "soon".

"Even three weeks or a month is too long."

In recent weeks Mr Tsvangirai has addressed several rallies. "I have been going around the country and I tell you the mood is combative and defiant," he said.

"I am glad there is consensus between the rural and urban divide about the illegitimacy of the government.

"As a responsible leadership we are going to channel their emotions in a positive way that will resolve the crisis this country is in."

Mr Tsvangirai and his Movement for Democratic Change have refused to accept Mr Mugabe's victory in the March presidential election.

Mr Mugabe said in the state-controlled Sunday Mail yesterday that his government was prepared "to talk peace if the MDC wants to talk peace, but if they choose violence, then we will deal with them effectively".