10 the elections as observers without any authority to intervene in the event that they notice any irregularities. The credibility and fairness of the elections could be enhanced if civil society groups would monitor rather than just observe the elections. The Mbeki Intiative While it is encouraging to note that regional leaders have began to show genuine concern to what is happening in the country, we have noted with concern that despite the ongoing talks between Zanu-PF and the two MDC formations mediated by South African President Thabo Mbeki, Zanu-PF is pressing ahead with the idea of having harmonised elections in March 2008. This is despite the fact that the issue of elections is one of the items on the agenda under discussion in the on-going talks. One would have thought the Mbeki intiative be given its due course before any talks of elections could be heightened. That Zanu-PF is forging ahead with its ideas mooted at its people’s conference in December 2006 shows the little respect and commitment the ruling party has towards the talks. Conclusion There seems to be very little political will within the ruling party and government to ensuring a conducive atmosphere is created before the country goes to the polls. There is a lot that needs to be done if conditions for free and fair elections are to be created in the country. The Zimbabwe ZEC should allow civic organisations to carry out voter education while political violence should not be tolerated at all. The solution to the crisis in Zimbabwe lies in coming up with a legitimate government that is elected freely and fairly and this can only be achieved if all the noted problems are resolved before the country goes through the next election. I thank you!