Movement for Democratic Change

The Movement for Democratic Change is a political party in Zimbabwe and the major opposition to Robert Mugabe. Founded by Morgan Tsvangirai in 1999, the party was formed as a coalition of a wide range of political, civic and individual leaders to oppose the 2000 constitutional referendum. The proposed constitutional change allowed Robert Mugabe to serve two more terms as president. The party had done reasonably well, capturing as many as 57 of 120 seats, in elections prior to 2008.

Party Split

The party split in 2005 over a disagreement about election boycotts. The mainstream faction is led by Morgan Tsvangirai, while the breakaway faction is led by Arthur Mutambara. Attempts were made in 2007 to reunite the two factions before the 2008 Zimbabwe Election, but negotiations fell apart without resolution.

2008 Election

Initial reports from the 2008 Zimbabwe Election showed that the Movement for Democratic Change had won 99 parliamentary seats, compared to the Zanu-PF's 97. These results were contested, but after a drawn out recount were confirmed. Official election results have yet to be released.

Fast Facts

1. Founded in 2000
2. A coalition of a wide range of leaders
3. Main opposition to Robert Mugabe in Zimbabwe
4. Split in 2005 over election boycott disagreements
5. Main faction led by Morgan Tsvangirai
6. Minor faction led by Arthur Mutambara
7. Won 99 parliamentary seats in the 2008 Zimbabwe Election
8. Reports place Morgan Tsvangirai in the lead for the presidency with between 49.4% to 60% of the vote

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