Ex-President of Zimbabwe Robert Mugabe dies aged 95
The former President of Zimbabwe Robert Mugabe has reportedly died at the age of 95.
He died after battling ill health for some months, according to his family.
Mugabe was born on 21 February 1924, in what was then Rhodesia.
He led Zimbabwe to independence in 1980 and has ruled the country for decades
He was Zimbabwe’s first post-independence leader but resigned from power after a military takeover in November 2017.
Mr. Mugabe was succeeded by Emmerson Mnangagwa as President.
Mnangagwa in a statement said “It is with the utmost sadness that I announce the passing on of Zimbabwe’s founding father and former President, Cde Robert Mugabe.
Cde Mugabe was an icon of liberation, a pan-Africanist who dedicated his life to the emancipation and empowerment of his people. His contribution to the history of our nation and continent will never be forgotten. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
Cde Mugabe was an icon of liberation, a pan-Africanist who dedicated his life to the emancipation and empowerment of his people. His contribution to the history of our nation and continent will never be forgotten. May his soul rest in eternal peace (2/2)
— President of Zimbabwe (@edmnangagwa) September 6, 2019
Zimbabwe’s education secretary Fadzayi Mahere also reacted to the news in a tweet.
Rest In Peace, Robert Mugabe.
My response to your passing is complicated. I’m going to write a long piece.
However, for now, deepest condolences to his family. pic.twitter.com/cu5Bioa8v1
— Fadzayi Mahere ?? (@advocatemahere) September 6, 2019
Robert Mugabe was a popular figure across Africa. He was passionate about Pan-Africanism and took inspiration from personalities like Kwame Nkrumah from Ghana.
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His clashes often with the West which led to the imposition of some sanctions on his country during his tenure.
