Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe's ruling party and the main opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) party have reached a power sharing deal, MDC leader Morgan Tsvangirai and a government source said this evening.
"South African President Thabo Mbeki is going to give a press statement but I can say that we have got a deal," Mr Tsvangirai said as he left the negotiations in Harare.
Mr Mbeki said the ruling ZANU-PF party and the opposition would announce a national unity government on Monday.
He added that Zimbabwe's leaders were committed to implementing the deal, which could end post-election political turmoil that has worsened the country's economic decline.
"I am absolutely certain that the leadership of Zimbabwe is committed to implementing these agreements ... this is an outcome that comes out of decisions arrived at by the leadership of Zimbabwe," Mr Mbeki said.
Mr Tsvangirai and Mr Mugabe have been bitter enemies for a decade.
Mr Tsvangirai won an initial election in March but failed to secure an outright victory, boycotted the June election run-off vote over attacks on his supporters.
Mr Mugabe, in power since independence from Britain in 1980, was declared the winner of an unopposed ballot which was condemned around the world.
Zimbabweans hope a deal can allow the revival of an economy in meltdown. Inflation is over 11 million per cent and severe food and fuel shortages have driven millions across the country's borders, straining regional economies.
"It's made in Zimbabwe, it's made by Zimbabweans, the rest of the world needs to respect that the people of Zimbabwe have taken a decision about their own country," said Mr Mbeki.
He said a formal signing ceremony attended by regional leaders was expected in Harare on Monday.
Reuters