Zambian President Levy Mwanawasa urged citizens on Sunday to return him to power in elections due later this year, promising he would intensify the fight against corruption, Reuters reported. Mwanawasa said in Kasama, 800 km (500 miles) north of the capital Lusaka, he needed the win to complete his economic programmes. "There is great need for us to start serious campaigns because elections can be held in July, September or even October," Mwanawasa told members of the ruling Movement for Multiparty Democracy and journalists from state media. "From this minute I officially launch the campaign," he added. Elections can be held any time this year. Mwanawasa -- whose five year presidency has yielded economic progress and debt relief -- said he has yet to accomplish his mission to grow the economy and cut poverty. At least 65 percent of Zambia's 10 million people live in extreme poverty. "My government will continue to fight corruption so that the available money can be used to better the lives of our people," Mwanawasa said, urging Zambians not to "experiment" with leaders. Mwanawasa, who was elected with a 29 percent of total votes cast in 2001, has refused the amendment before the elections, saying it is an important exercise that should not be rushed.
