DATE=3-13-02

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=U-S-ZIMBABWE ELECTION (S-UPDATE)

NUMBER=2-287520

BYLINE=DAVID GOLLUST

DATELINE=STATE DEPARTMENT

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

///EDS: UPDATES CR2-287510 TO INCLUDE BUSH NEWS CONFERENCE REMARKS ///

INTRO: The Bush administration says it is considering broader sanctions against Zimbabwean leaders after President Robert Mugabe claimed victory in an election U-S officials say was "fundamentally flawed." VOA's David Gollust has details from the State Department.

TEXT: The administration banned U-S travel by Mr. Mugabe and his top aides last month after the Harare government expelled the European Union's election observers. And now with the long-time Zimbabwean leader having -- as officials here put it -- "stolen" the election, further sanctions are under consideration. At his White House news conference, President Bush said the United States is consulting with friends and allies on how to proceed in the election's aftermath:

///BUSH ACTUALITY///

We do not recognize the outcome of the election because we think it's flawed. And we're dealing with our friends to figure out how to deal with this flawed election.

///END ACT///

In a statement here, Secretary of State Colin Powell said there were "profound irregularities" in the election process, and as a result President Mugabe may claim victory but not democratic legitimacy. U-S officials say new sanctions could include, among other things, a freeze on U-S assets of Zimbabwean leaders and a denial of export licenses for military items. (Signed)

NEB/DAG/FC