Webcast News Service, 7 October 2008

Zimbabwe's main opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) is calling for international help to end the stalemate over the formation of a unity government. The failure to reach a consensus on the allocation of key ministries is viewed as delaying the formation of a unity government that would address Zimbabwe's political and economic crisis. But dictator Robert Mugabe's ruling ZANU-PF party says outside help is not needed to resolve the stalemate.

Meanwhile, Britain's foreign secretary says European Union sanctions against Zimbabwe will be maintained until a new power-sharing government is in place. He said European Union sanctions will not be lifted until President Mugabe and main opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai agree on a new administration. The EU imposed a travel ban and assets freeze on Mugabe and 171 people and four companies tied to his old regime.