Gono rules himself out of presidential race

Gono rules himself out of presidential race

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By Staff Reporter

ZIMBABWE'S central bank governor has ruled himself out of the race to succeed President Robert Mugabe.

Gideon Gono, whose star has been rising in government 36-months after taking over the tough job, insists he has no political ambitions of any kind.

In an exclusive web chat with New Zimbabwe.com readers (click here) on Tuesday, Gono said: "I have no plans, short term or long term to run for presidency or any other political position."

Gono's vehement rejection of growing speculation that he is a potential presidential candidate narrows down the list of presidential aspirants.

President Mugabe, 82, has publicly said he wants to retire in 2008 to write books, but his officials say he may be asked to stay on until 2010 to allow for the synchronisation of the presidential and parliamentary elections.

The ruling Zanu PF party, which holds its annual conference next week, is likely to use its commanding parliamentary majority to push for constitutional amendments that would prolong Mugabe's stay in office.

Of all the likely candidates vying for Mugabe's job, only John Nkomo, the Speaker of Parliament, has openly made known his interest.

Political commentators, however, see Vice President Joice Mujuru and Rural Housing Minister Emerson Mnangagwa as the front runners. Former Finance Minister Simba Makoni is thought to be disinterested.

CLICK HERE to view Governor Gono's web chat with New Zimbabwe.com readers

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