Mugabe's rival receives backing of key political ally
Robert Mugabe believes he is certain of victory in next month's election
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Saturday, 01, Mar 2008 05:59
One of the main challengers to Robert Mugabe for the presidency of Zimbabwe has received the backing of a key politician within the country's ruling party.
Former interior minister Dumiso Dabengwa has said today that he will be supporting Simba Makoni in the country's upcoming presidential election.
Speaking at the launch of Mr Makoni's campaign, Mr Dabengwa said: "This is a rescue operation. We have stood up to rescue the situation.
"It is time they give way to a leadership that can face up to the challenges facing our country.
"We are in a movement for renewal, revival," he said.
Mr Makoni's entry into the election makes it a three-way battle, with opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai also campaigning for the presidency.
In the vote on March 29th Mr Makoni will stand as an independent after being kicked out of the ZANU-PF party.
The current president has dismissed his opponents as "witches" and "charlatans" and claims he is certain of victory.
Mr Mugabe has ruled in Zimbabwe since 1980 when the country gained independence from the UK.