Zambia's Mwanawasa vows crackdown amid poll unrest

LUSAKA - Zambian President Levy Mwanawasa appealed for calm on Sunday as protesters blocked roads and burned tyres amid charges he rigged national elections, but said police would deal firmly with those trying to "sabotage" the vote.

"I want to appeal for calm and peace," he said in an address to the nation on state television.

"The law enforcement agencies will deal firmly with all trouble makers and those who want to sabotage the elections."

Mwanawasa, who has surged ahead in an election count, spoke as protesters blocked streets with burning tyres and hurled stones at police, after officials delayed announcing final results in a presidential election for "security reasons".

- REUTERS