Africa News Summary : News Headlines : Discussion Forums

SYDNEY - The government said Monday it had made contingency plans to evacuate Australians from Zimbabwe amid fears the African nation's looming presidential election may erupt into violence.

A spokesman for Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said there were around 900 Australians living and working in Zimbabwe, with most having already registered with the High Commission as the country experiences continuing civil unrest.

The spokesman said on condition of anonymity that the government was ready to evacuate Australian nationals if violence erupted.

"Obviously, the welfare and safety of Australians overseas, both Australian residents in Zimbabwe and Australian visitors to Zimbabwe is our highest priority," the spokesman said.

Zimbabwe will hold presidential elections in March with longtime ruler, President Robert Mugabe, 77, fighting for political survival.

Political violence has intensified amid seizures of white-owned farms for landless blacks in a campaign government critics say is aimed at shoring up Mugabe's waning support. Nampa-Sapa-AP

•  Big Brother Africa 3: Morris does a Lazarus! He's alive, he is too!!
•  Morris does a Lazarus! He's alive, he is too!!