Mugabe set to win new powers

Zimbabwean MPs finished a marathon session early today on a controversial security bill that critics say is designed to stifle opposition as President Robert Mugabe seeks reelection.

The debate came as Zimbabwe's military signalled they would not tolerate an opposition victory in the crucial poll, which is set for 9 and 10 March.

MPs took more than 12 hours to discuss all 46 clauses of the bill that has been fast-tracked by the ruling ZANU-PF party. Parliament adjourned until 12.30pm GMT today when MPs are set to vote on the bill after a third reading.

The bill, which can criminalise criticism of Mr Mugabe, will likely be passed, as ZANU-PF holds 93 of parliament's 150 seats. Mr Mugabe, 77, in power since 1980, faces his toughest political battle against the opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), led by former trade unionist Morgan Tsvangirai.

The legislation would give the government sweeping powers to "protect public order and security". Penalties for these offences - which analysts say can be defined to include any suspicion that a person is plotting against the state - are life imprisonment or death.