Tendai Biti backtrack on Zuma attack

Zimbabwe's Finance minister Tendai Biti on Sunday  made a dramatic u-turn on his attack on South Africa's President Jacob Zuma whom he accused of "not doing anything for Zimbabwe since he came to power."

On Sunday, Biti backtracked when addressing a really in Mabvuku, Harare saying "Zuma was critical in in stabilising Zimbabwe's political and economic atmosphere."

"Our key message was to thank president Zuma on what he has done for this country like ensuring there is no violence in the next election," Biti said.

"President Zuma is the mid wife of the new Zimbabwe and also of what people expect in the new Zimbabwe, good education, a new constitution, a new contract," added Biti.

Last week, Biti said Zuma's administration was "not keen on fulfilling a R1,5 billion line of credit facilities promised by former President Thabo Mbeki."

"The bottom line is they do not want to see us," Biti said.

"Have you asked yourself what Zuma has done for this country since he got into power? Nothing. In March 2009 we were promised R500 million, but we have not been given that money. If you speak to (Industry and Commerce minister) Welshman Ncube he will tell you more on this."