Mugabe changes strategy for run-off

PRESIDENT Robert Mugabe has changed his campaign strategy ahead of the June 27 presidential run-off, opting for voter canvassing and small village meetings, a senior official said.

He is also threatening to expel the US ambassador, criticising him for advice given to Mugabe’s opponent in the run-off.

Mugabe has tended to make mass rallies the focus of his election bids since assuming power in 1980.

The strategy backfired in the March 29 presidential poll when opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai outpolled the Zimbabwean leader. Justice Minister Patrick Chinamasa said the campaign style would pave the way for his re-election.

Mugabe’s ruling ZANU-PF party lost control in the March 29 poll for the first time since it came to power.

Meanwhile, Tsvangirai has kicked off his run-off campaign after returning to Zimbabwe on Saturday for the first time since early April. The MDC leader has been travelling to galvanise support in Africa and overseas for his bid to unseat Mugabe.

The two will face off in a second ballot next month because Tsvangirai failed to win an absolute majority.