Talks between Zimbabwe?s ruling party and opposition on ending the political crisis resumed yesterday after adjourning early last week, South Africa?s presidency said. President Robert Mugabe?s party began power-sharing talks with the opposition Movement for Democratic Change in South Africa two weeks ago to try to resolve the crisis after Mugabe?s unopposed re-election in a poll boycotted by the opposition. Talks adjourned last week so both teams of negotiators could consult their leaders.

?The talks have begun,? said Mukoni Ratshitanga, spokesman for South African President Thabo Mbeki, who is mediating. Although an initial deadline for the talks ends today, Ratshitanga said that should not be taken literally because of the adjournment. Opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai has said the deadline is flexible. Mugabe and Tsvangirai are under pressure from within Africa and the rest of the world to negotiate a national unity government to end a crisis that has ruined Zimbabwe?s economy and flooded neighbouring states with millions of refugees. The parties disagree over how long a national unity government should remain in power. The MDC wants new elections held as soon as possible while Mugabe, who has ruled since 1980, wants to carry on with his new five-year mandate.