Opposition challenge Mugabe law

The opposition in urban areas were less intimidated by election violence

By Grant Ferrett in Harare

The Supreme Court in Zimbabwe has begun hearing a challenge by the main opposition party against President Mugabe's decision last month to amend the electoral law.

The amendment prevents the courts from overturning any of the results of last year's parliamentary elections, even if there is evidence of corrupt or illegal practices.

Riot police surrounded the Supreme Court as the hearing was due to begin, providing an indication of the depth of the controversy still surrounding the poll last June.

The opposition Movement for Democratic Change had planned to challenge the results of 40 constituencies, a third of the total number of contested seats, largely on the grounds of violence in the run-up to voting.

'Unconstitutional'

Sitting members of parliament say the amendment cannot now be removed.

President Mugabe: Has ignored several legal rulings

But the opposition Movement for Democratic Change says it is unconstitutional.

Its lawyer told the Supreme Court that the decision to prevent any legal challenge amounted to a denial of the constitutional right to the protection of the law.

The government, which has hired a South African lawyer to present its case, argues that invalidating results from last year's poll could threaten democracy and stability in Zimbabwe.

Whatever the outcome, the prospects are grim.

If the Supreme Court rules in favour of the opposition it would mark an important step towards the holding of a series of by-elections.

Given the example of recent months, that would probably result in renewed violence and intimidation - most of it carried out by supporters of the ruling party.

Another possibility is that the government will once again simply ignore the Supreme Court, further undermining the rule of law.