Harare, Zimbabwe-Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai, who is also the Movement for Democratic Change leader, has told thousands of his supporters gathered in the capital city, Harare today that Wednesday's elections are a choice between democracy and dictatorship.
Addressing his supporters at his last campaign rally dubbed "the cross over rally" Tsvangirai said 89-year-old President Robert Mugabe in power for 33 years is tired and should be shown the exit door through the ballot on Wednesday.
Tsvangirai said it was prudent that Mugabe "enjoy his retirement" in peace and that given his advanced age it was not wise for him to seek re-election.
"Come Wednesday we are going to make a historic decision between democracy and dictatorship. Despite his advanced age Mugabe seeks a new mandate from the people. He should respect the intelligence of the people of Zimbabwe,"Tsvangirai said.
The MDC leader, who was subjected to physical and mental torture by partisan security agents loyal to Mugabe, urged his supporters not to seek retribution in the event of his party's victory in the make or break election.
He said despite being tormented by Mugabe's agents he had forgiven them, adding that the Zanu PF leader should enjoy his retirement in peace while he (Tsvangirai) shows him how a country is run. "I am a survivor of torment and torture. I was arrested but am I not bitter. I have since forgiven my tormentors and so should you," he said.
The PM, who is widely regarded as Mugabe's major opponent since Zimbabwe gained her independence in 1980, said his tormentors should join him in rebuilding the country.
"My tormentors should join me in rebuilding the nation. Mugabe should enjoy his peace and I want to show him that a country is not run through violence but by love for the people,"Tsvangirai said. Tsvangirai promised to rebuild the economy and create employment for millions of jobless Zimbabweans.
In response to Mugabe's threat that Tsvangirai risked being arrested if he implements his statement that he would announce election results himself, the MDC leader said he respected government institutions. "I respect government institutions but will not support the willful subversion of the choice of the people,"he said. Tsvangirai has been complaining that the electoral body, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) is being manipulated by Mugabe and could aid in his rigging machinations.
