Tsvangirai quits Dutch Embassy

Tsvangirai quits Dutch Embassy

OUT: Tsvangirai has left the Dutch Embassy in Harare after a week

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• Text: Tsvangirai's statement announcing pull-out

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• Mugabe threatens to arrest MDC leaders

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ZIMBABWEAN opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai has left the Dutch embassy in Harare, where he sought refuge more than a week ago, the Dutch foreign ministry said on Tuesday.

"He left yesterday (Monday) morning. He wants to do his regular work from home," ministry spokesman Bart Rijs told AFP.

Tsvangirai had taken shelter at the mission citing increasing pre-poll violence against his supporters ahead of a run-off presidential election. Police dismissed the move as a stunt and advised him to “go home and sleep”.

Veteran leader Robert Mugabe won Friday's poll after Tsvangirai - the only challenger - withdrew from the race.
"The embassy will stay in close contact with Mr Tsvangirai, also concerning his security," Rijs said.

Dutch foreign minister Maxime Verhagen had agreed to grant Tsvangirai refuge because the opposition leader felt that his life was in danger.

"If that becomes the case again, he will be welcome (at the embassy) again," said Rijs.

"It is up to Mr Tsvangirai to decide his steps, if he feels he is endangered, he is welcome."

Rijs noted that the Zimbabwean election campaign had been "marked by violence and intimidation" against the country's opposition.

Mugabe, 84, has since been sworn in for a sixth presidential term.
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