Thousands of Zimbabweans flocked to closing election campaign rallies today as opposition hopefuls urged people to be on guard against any attempts at rigging by President Robert Mugabe.

British property tycoon Nicholas van Hoogstraten has been arrested in Zimbabwe on currency and pornography charges, official media reported today.

Zimbabwe’s opposition leader threatened to boycott elections next year as church leaders launched an outspoken appeal for democracy in the mounting challenge to President Robert Mugabe.

Zimbabwe’s main opposition party accused police today of harassing its leader to hinder his political activities before crucial elections early next year.

Police and education authorities shut down 45 private schools across Zimbabwe today in a long-running dispute over fees.