Current president Emmerson Mnangagwa announced his predecessor’s death on Twitter, writing: “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.”
Mr Mugabe had ruled Zimbabwe since 1980 and was the world’s oldest head of state before his dramatic exit two years ago.
He was ousted from power in a military coup in November 2017, bringing to an end his three-decade reign.
During his presidency, he led the country from independence into repression and economic collapse.
He had been accused of a range of human rights abuses, including denying food aid to areas supporting the opposition.
Reports of the deterioration of his health were confirmed by Mr Mnangagwa last year, who revealed Mr Mugabe was unable to walk and had spent several months in a hospital in Singapore.
More to follow…
