"The presidential election in Zimbabwe has not satisfied the fundamental requirements for a democratic election," said Foreign Minister Jan Petersen. He continued, "The election can by no means be characterized as free and fair, either as regards voter registration or as regards the election campaigns or the election itself."

The Minister’s view is based on reports from independent international election observers, including 25 Norwegian observers, which refer to widespread violence, intimidation and manipulation at every stage of the election.

"The Norwegian Observer Mission, headed by Kåre Vollan, has done an outstanding job," said Mr. Petersen.

According to the official results, President Mugabe has won the election with about 54 per cent of the votes, while the opposition candidate received 40 per cent. The opposition candidate, Morgan Tsvangirai, announced at a press conference today that he would not accept the result, which he regards as being rigged.