Mugabe signs in a successor law

Zimbabwe's president has signed into law an amendment to the constitution that allows him to choose a successor if he decides to retire mid-term.

Robert Mugabe's choice would then be voted in by parliament which is dominated by his Zanu-PF party.

The constitutional amendment bill, which also allows presidential and parliamentary polls next March, had the backing of Zanu-PF and the opposition.

Mr Mugabe has said that he will seek another term in next year's elections.

Analysts say they expect Zanu-PF to dominate the joint elections in March 2008 and for Mr Mugabe to then put a hand-picked successor in place.