Zimbabwe crisis talks derailed?

Zimbabwe's main opposition party has said it has lost faith in power-sharing talks with the ruling Zanu-PF.

A spokesman for the Movement for Democratic Change said President Robert Mugabe can form a new government without it.

He said: "As such, we have lost confidence in this process. They can go ahead and Mugabe can form his government, we will not be a part of that circus."

Earlier, Zimbabwean state media said Mr Mugabe is ready to go ahead and form a cabinet if opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai does not sign a power-sharing deal.

The MDC responded by saying any attempts by Mr Mugabe to pressure it into an agreement would fail.

MDC spokesman Nelson Chamisa said: "Where on earth have you seen dialogue held on the basis of threats and ultimatum? They want to bully us into an agreement, but that's completely unacceptable."

State media had described talks as the last chance for Mr Tsvangirai to agree to a deal to end post-election political deadlock that has worsened Zimbabwe's decline.

But analysts believe neither side has any option but to agree a deal eventually.

So far talks have been blocked over how executive power should be shared.

Mr Tsvangirai has rejected a proposal he says gives Mr Mugabe control of Zimbabwe's power security forces.

Mr Tsvangirai beat Mr Mugabe in a March 29 election but fell short of enough votes to avoid a run-off vote.

Mr Mugabe won the run-off unopposed after Mr Tsvangirai pulled out citing violence and intimidation against his supporters.

The election was condemned around the world and drew toughened sanctions from Western countries whose support is vital for reviving Zimbabwe's ruined economy.

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