MDC calls for Sadc help in postponing Zimbabwe presidential poll

Zimbabwe's Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) is urging the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) to press President Robert Mugabe to postpone elections scheduled for the end of the month. MDC spokesperson Nelson Chamisa explains. 

Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe in April 2013 Reuters/Philimon Bulawayo

MDC secretary general Tendai Biti, who is also finance minister, has written to Sadc, criticising Mugabe's decision to hold what he described as "meaningless" and "illegal" polls.

At a recent summit in Mozambique, the southern African bloc tried to convince Mugabe to delay the vote but failed.

Mugabe, who will soon turn 90, has threatened to leave Sadc over the question.

Meanwhile, MDC presidential candidate Morgan Tsvangirai is on the campaign trail.

He took part yesterday in a so-called Red Power rally attended by thousands of people