Harare - Zimbabwe's Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) on Wednesday termed Barack Obama's ascension to the US presidency as a victory for the struggle for democracy in Africa.

"For those of us who are still in the trenches, fighting for change and democracy across the entire African continent, this is our victory," the party of longtime opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai said in a statement on Obama's win.

The desire for change that swept Obama past the post was also the motor behind the MDC's fight against the "dictatorship" and "neo-fascism" of aging President Robert Mugabe, the party said.

The party also saluted John McCain's graciousness in defeat.

"If in Africa, incumbents would accept defeat and would graciously depart from the seat of power, this would be a different continent, and indeed Zimbabwe would be a different place," the MDC said.

The remark was a swipe at Mugabe over his refusal to step down as leader after placing second to Tsvangirai in the last credible presidential elections in Zimbabwe in March.

Mugabe won the second round of the election, but only after his supporters killed dozens of MDC supporters, forcing Tsvangirai to withdraw.

After agreeing in September to form a unity government the MDC and Mugabe's Zanu-PF are still at loggerheads over which party should get which ministry.

Obama has been extremely critical of Mugabe's "repressive and divisive" policies. (dpa)