Britain expressed its strong disapproval of the increasing violence against opposition supporters in Zimbabwe following recent elections. The Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, called for a United Nations mission to investigate human rights violations and stated that diplomatic efforts would be heightened ahead of a UN Security Council meeting. Brown emphasized the importance of international action and urged for a thorough investigation into the violence and abuses taking place in Zimbabwe. The opposition Movement for Democratic Change has stated that the international community needs to condemn the atmosphere of fear in Zimbabwe. Despite winning the March 29 parliamentary and presidential elections, a partial recount confirmed that ZANU-PF had been pushed into second place in parliament for the first time in 28 years. However, the official results of the presidential vote have not been released yet, even though Mugabe has called for a re-run. Brown emphasized the importance of international monitors in a potential second round of voting and praised the support of the UN Secretary General, African leaders, Europe, the US, and others who are advocating for a return to democracy in Zimbabwe. "We are prepared, along with others, to assist in the reconstruction of Zimbabwe when democracy is restored. I promise that Britain will take a leading role in this endeavor."