Half the voters braved intimidation to vote for change. It was the biggest turnout in any election since 1980. Mugabe could face action from South Africa Mr Tsvangirai has appealed to his supporters to show restraint and patience - emphasising that change will be gradual. But he cannot contain the intense public anger felt in many urban areas indefinitely. Mr Mugabe's party has presided over a catastrophic collapse in the economy.
Inflation is even higher.
Industry is shrinking under the impact of crippling interest rates. President Mugabe is also said to be under pressure from his powerful neighbour to the south. Sanctions fear Opposition leaders here are confident that if Mr Mugabe tries to go it alone and govern as before without taking account of opposition gains, South Africa will threaten to cut supplies of electricity and water. The ruling party, sooner or later, will have to choose which way to jump - whether to seek accommodation with the opposition, or to carry on as though nothing has happened. There will be much soul searching inside the ruling elite.