Zimbabwe's government will not invite observers from countries critical of President Robert Mugabe's rule to monitor an election due later this month.
The state-controlled Heraldnewspaper today quoted Foreign Affairs Minister Simbarashe Mumbengegwi as saying the government had selected 47 foreign observer teams, "on the basis of reciprocity, objectivity and impartiality in their relationship with Zimbabwe".
"Clearly, those who believe that the only free and fair election is where the opposition wins have been excluded since the ruling party, Zanu-PF, is poised to score yet another triumph," Mr Mumbengegwi said.
The Heraldsaid Russia was the only European country invited, while 23 African and several Asian nations would also monitor the polls, along with teams from regional economic blocs.
The African country - in the middle of a severe economic and political crisis - votes on March 29th in presidential, parliamentary and council elections.
The most important contest will be between Mr Mugabe, who has ruled since independence from Britain in 1980, former ally Simba Makoni and old rival Morgan Tsvangirai, leader of the main wing of the opposition Movement for Democratic Change.
Critics say Mr Mugabe has rigged elections since 2000 to cling to power. The veteran leader denies the charge.