Zimbabwean opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai says he will return to his homeland – despite threats to his life – to take part in a presidential run-off against President Robert Mugabe that could defeat the long-time leader.

SOUTH African President Thabo Mbeki yesterday held intensive talks with veteran counterpart Robert Mugabe over Zimbabwe’s post-election crisis, as doctors reported a dramatic rise in violence.

The spokesman for Zimbabwe’s main opposition leader was assaulted by security forces as he tried to leave the country, a party official said.