Some observers say this call to vote could be part of the party's political strategy rather than panic.

BBC: Israel election: High turnout as Netanyahu eyes victory

"Every statement from the chief executive on down suggests that the government intends to create panic, " says Democratic Party leader Martin Lee.

CNN: A TRAGEDY OR A FARCE?

Mr Mulongoti said the MMD's constitution governs the election of a party leader and warned against acting out of panic.

BBC: Zambia leader health probe urged

It has already inspired panic among some members of his Social Democratic Party and brought tens of thousands of Germans, mostly in the east, on to the streets each Monday this month in protest.

ECONOMIST: Ersatz Europeans

Cane-growers spend Christmas in a panic, and the negroes don't have their party and holiday until after the New Year...

ECONOMIST: Cotton

Crucially for Sir Menzies, his party's performance in the opinion polls has been resilient enough to prevent any panic in the ranks.

ECONOMIST: Bagehot