The role of election monitors will be vital to ensure free and fair elections in Zimbabwe, writes Mary Lawlor

Six suspects including a former army officer accused of plotting a coup to oust Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe denied charges of treason, the official media reported today.

Allegations of a foiled coup attempt to overthrow President Robert Mugabe gripped Zimbabwe today as details emerged on the arrests of at least seven alleged plotters, including a former army officer.

Police in Zimbabwe have arrested the editor of the independent Daily News on suspicion of publishing false information on alleged vote-rigging in last month’s presidential election.