Zimbabwe’s Robert Mugabe dies in Singapore hospital aged 95
- The former leader had been receiving medical treatment in the city state for several months. His death was confirmed by his successor on Twitter
His health has been the subject of increased speculation in recent years and authorities in March arrested two journalists over a report alleging that he was “in bad shape”.
“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,” Mnangagwa said.
China also paid tribute to the former leader, saying he was an “outstanding national liberation movement leader and politician”. “Throughout his life, he firmly defended the sovereignty of his country, opposed foreign interference, and actively promoted China-Zimbabwe and China-Africa friendship and cooperation,” said foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang at a press briefing in Beijing.
South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa remembered Mugabe as a “champion of Africa’s cause against colonialism”.