Tsvangirai to speak at Belfast conference

Tsvangirai to speak at Belfast conference

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ZIMBABWE'S opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai is due to give a speech to a political conference in Northern Ireland on Friday, the organisers said.

Tsvangirai, who beat President Robert Mugabe in the first round of the presidential election in March but failed to gain enough votes to avoid a run-off, is to visit Belfast for a gathering of liberal parties from across the world.

Senegalese President Abdoulaye Wade will also address delegates.

Conference organiser Lord John Alderdice said: "We are honoured that Mr Tsvangirai and President Wade have chosen to attend our congress in Belfast.

"It is a city often seen as an example that conflict can be overcome when people choose peace and democracy over violence and tyranny.

"It is an honour for the worldwide liberal family to be in the presence of these distinguished individuals who are dedicated to pursuing basic human rights in Africa."

Members of about 100 liberal parties are expected to attend the Liberal International conference in Northern Ireland, which emerged from decades of violence following the 1998 Good Friday peace deal.

Tsvangirai's Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) has reacted angrily to the prospect of a run-off poll vote being delayed until the end of July and have accused Mugabe of buying time so he can intimidate voters. - AFP
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