However, other media reports revealed that thousands of police in full riot gear and soldiers blockaded the site of the MDC's main campaign rally.

Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe addresses a rally in Harare June 13,2008. (Xinhua/Reuters Photo) 

Tsvangirai was quoted as saying that Mugabe has declared war by saying that the bullet has replaced the ballot and so his party the MDC will not be a part of the June 27 vote.

Speaking only hours after the MDC reported its rally had been broken up, Tsvangirai called on the United Nations and the African Union to intervene.

In the March 29 elections, Tsvangirai won 47 percent of the votes and Mugabe 43. The winner has to garner at least 51 percent to take residence at state house in the capital of Harare.

In a quick response to Tsvangirai's announcement, the Zimbabwean government, which has repeatedly denied directing violence and intimidation against the opposition, said it will proceed with the June 27 presidential run-off election unless Tsvangirai formally withdraws from the poll in writing.

Zimbabwe Justice Minister Patrick Chinamasa said Tsvangirai must write formally to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, advising that he is withdrawing from the race.

"In which event there will be one candidate, meaning there will not be a poll. If he doesn't, the poll will take place," he said.

Chinamasa refuted allegations that the ruling party had used violence to force the MDC out of the poll.

(Xinhua News Agency June 23, 2008)