Zimbabwe Ex-President Robert Mugabe Dead At 95

BBC: Robert Mugabe, Zimbabwe's strongman ex-president, dies aged 95

Robert Mugabe, the Zimbabwean independence icon turned authoritarian leader, has died aged 95.

Mr Mugabe had been receiving treatment in a hospital in Singapore since April. He was ousted in a military coup in 2017 after 37 years in power.

The former president was praised for broadening access to health and education for the black majority.

But later years were marked by violent repression of his political opponents and Zimbabwe's economic ruin.

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WNU Editor: This is a BS. Mugabe was never never never an angel, and one who certainly did not build up the country when he assumed power, and who was never an intellectual as the Guardian claims .... Zimbabwe's intellectual despot: how Mugabe became Africa's fallen angel (The Guardian). The AP is also trying to whitewash Mugabe calling his abuse of power and the targeting of ethnic and tribal groups different from his own as "allegations of human rights abuses" .... Mugabe: Overthrew white minority rule, then turned autocrat (AP). This is a more accurate portrayal of who this mass murdered was .... 'Only God will remove me': How Robert Mugabe massacred his opponents and rigged elections to cling to power for 37 years and leave Africa's former breadbasket in poverty (Daily Mail).

More News On The Death Of Zimbabwe Ex-President Robert Mugabe

Robert Mugabe, Zimbabwe’s resistance hero-turned-autocrat, dies aged 95 -- France 24
Zimbabwe ex-President Robert Mugabe dies at 95 -- DW
Robert Mugabe, Zimbabwe's liberator turned oppressor, dies aged 95 -- ABC News Online
Zimbabwe ex-President Robert Mugabe dies aged 95 -- Al Jazeera
Tributes -- and also fierce criticism -- pour in after death of Robert Mugabe -- CNN
World leaders react to Robert Mugabe's death -- Zimbabwe
Factbox: Reaction to the death of former Zimbabwe president Robert Mugabe -- Reuters
Timeline: A look at the life of Zimbabwe's late president Robert Mugabe -- Reuters

Zimbabwe's Ousted Leader Robert Mugabe's Retirement Package Has Been Made Public

FILE PHOTO: President Robert Mugabe listens to his wife Grace Mugabe at a rally of his ruling ZANU(PF) party in Harare, Zimbabwe, November 8, 2017. REUTERS/Philimon Bulawayo/File Photo

Daily Mail: Mugabe's lavish retirement package: Zimbabwe's ousted dictator and his despised wife will get a residence, 20 staffers, a car fleet and private air travel all paid for by the state

* The 93-year-old former leader forced from power following a bloodless coup
* New president Emmerson Mnangagwa announced Mugabe's retirement deal
* As part of the package, Mugabes will have access to Mercedes cars and free fuel
* Will get first class flights, free medical care and generous housing allowance

Despite their rather undignified ejection from power, the extravagant lifestyles enjoyed by sidelined despot Robert Mugabe and his shopaholic wife, Grace, will continue to be bankrolled by impoverished Zimbabweans, it was announced today

The 93-year-old, who was forced to resign his position as Africa’s oldest leader last month following a bloodless coup, and his despised former first lady will continue to live in lavish, presidential style which has been chronicled an extraordinary government gazette.

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WNU Editor: So the lifestyle that Robert Mugabe and his wife have enjoyed for years will continue to be bankrolled by impoverished Zimbabweans. This is not the ending that a lot of people were hoping for.

More News On Robert Mugabe's "Retirement Package"

Zimbabwe’s Mugabe Gets Comfortable Retirement -- WSJ
Mugabe to receive $10m retirement package and perks -- ENCA
Zimbabwe ex-army boss sworn in as Mugabe gets diplomat's rights -- Times Live/Reuters
Waiters, cooks, four international trips a year: here's what Mugabe is getting after 37 years in power -- News24
Robert and Grace Mugabe’s long list of perks -- The Zimbabwe Mail

The Inside Story Of Mugabe's Downfall

FILE PHOTO: President Robert Mugabe listens to his wife Grace Mugabe at a rally of his ruling ZANU(PF) party in Harare, Zimbabwe, November 8, 2017. REUTERS/Philimon Bulawayo/File Photo

Reuters: Special Report: 'Treacherous shenanigans' - The inside story of Mugabe's downfall

HARARE (Reuters) - Inside State House in Harare, Robert Mugabe was in the tightest spot of his 37-year rule. Tanks were on the streets and troops had occupied the state broadcaster, from where the army had announced it had taken control of Zimbabwe.

Mugabe, 93 years old but still alert, remained defiant. The only leader the country had known since independence was refusing to quit.

At a tense meeting with his military top brass on Nov. 16, the world’s oldest head of state put his foot down: “Bring me the constitution and tell me what it says,” he ordered military chief Constantino Chiwenga, according to two sources present.

An aide brought a copy of the constitution, which lays out that the president is commander-in-chief of the armed forces.

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WNU Editor: With Mugabe gone, people are now talking.

Former Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe And His Wife Grace Have Been Granted Immunity From Prosecution

DW: Zimbabwe: Robert Mugabe granted immunity, won't be prosecuted

Zimbabwe's ousted leader, Robert Mugabe, and his wife Grace will be allowed to stay in the country as part of the deal that led to his resignation. Ex-Vice President Mnangagwa will be sworn in as president Friday.

Zimbabwean officials revealed on Thursday that former President Robert Mugabe and his wife Grace had been granted immunity from prosecution and assured of his safety as part of the deal that led him stepping down earlier this week.

Mugabe reportedly told negotiators from the ruling ZANU-PF party that he had no plans to live in exile and wanted to die in Zimbabwe. "It was very emotional for him and he was forceful about it," a party source, speaking on conditions of anonymity, told the Reuters news agency. "For him it was very important that he be guaranteed security to stay in the country... although that will not stop him from travelling abroad when he wants to or has to."

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WNU Editor: Goodbye to the old boss, hello to the new boss .... The Latest: Zimbabwe Opposition Not Invited to Inauguration (US News and World Report/AP)

More News On Former Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe And His Wife Grace Being Granted Immunity From Prosecution

Mugabe granted immunity, assured of safety in Zimbabwe: sources -- Reuters
Zimbabwe grants Robert Mugabe immunity from prosecution -- The Guardian
Mugabe Won't Face Prosecution in Zimbabwe, Ruling Party Says -- Bloomberg
Zimbabwe's Robert Mugabe granted immunity, military says. -- CNN
Zimbabwe prepares for swearing-in of new leader Mnangagwa -- Washington Post
Emmerson Mnangagwa set to take over ZANU-PF party reins. -- Al Jazeera
Robert Mugabe's monthly retirement salary revealed -- Business Report
Zimbabwe needs immediate economic reforms, warns IMF. -- BBC
As Robert Mugabe slept, elite plotters carried out a coup -- The Australian
Dissecting Mnangagwa's first speech on his return to Zimbabwe -- CNN
As Mnangagwa Prepares to Take Power, Zimbabwe Hungers for Change -- Bloomberg

Zimbabwe's President Mugabe Has Resigned -- News Roundup

Daily Mail: MUGABE STANDS DOWN: Joy in the streets as Zimbabwe's dictator finally ends his 37-year rule after ousted vice president 'The Crocodile' warned him to quit - so what now for his loathed wife, Gucci Grace?

* Robert Mugabe has resigned as president after 37 years and after coming under huge pressure to step down
* Parliament erupted in cheers as announcement was made that he had resigned 'with immediate effect'
* It is not clear what will now happen to his loathed wife, dubbed 'Gucci' Grace Mugabe for her lavish spending
* Former deputy president Emmerson 'Crocodile' Mnangagwa is expected to take over from Mr Mugabe
* He had claimed plans 'were underfoot to eliminate me' after he was dismissed as vice president by Mugabe

Dictator Robert Mugabe has finally resigned today, ending his 37-year rule of Zimbabwe after the country's ousted vice president - dubbed 'The Crocodile' - ordered him to quit.

Zimbabwe's parliament erupted in wild celebrations as the announcement was made that the 93-year-old had resigned 'with immediate effect'.

Zanu-PF officials said former vice president Emmerson 'The Crocodile' Mnangagwa would take over. The Parliament's leader said he was working on legal issues to appoint a new president within 48 hours.

Mugabe had been accused of allowing his wife Grace, 52, to 'usurp' power and of being too old to rule. It is not clear what will now happen to his loathed wife, dubbed Gucci Grace for her lavish spending, who has not been seen since she and her husband were held under house arrest last week.

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WNU Editor: As this blog predicted two days ago .... he "signed a letter" announcing his resignation .... Resignation letter of Zimbabwe's Mugabe doesn't mention who he leaves in charge (Reuters). Hmmmm .... my gut tells me that this letter was not written by him, and as for his signature .... a part of me wonders if he knew what he was signing .... or if he signed it all.

Zimbabwe's President Mugabe Has Resigned -- News Roundup

Mugabe Resigns: Live -- BBC
The Latest: Britain says Mugabe exit forges ‘new path’ -- AP
Zimbabwe's President Mugabe resigns -- BBC
Robert Mugabe resigns as Zimbabwe’s president after 37 years -- AP
Robert Mugabe resigns as president of Zimbabwe -- AFP
Zimbabwe's Mugabe resigns, ending four decades of rule -- Reuters
Robert Mugabe Resigns as Zimbabwe's President, Ending 37-Year Rule -- New York Times
Robert Mugabe resigns as president of Zimbabwe -- The Guardian
Robert Mugabe resigns after 37 years as Zimbabwe's leader -- CNN
Robert Mugabe's 37-year reign over Zimbabwe is over -- CBS News
Robert Mugabe, world's oldest leader, finally resigns one week after coup -- NBC
Mugabe resigns as Zimbabwe president: Who are the key players in the leadership crisis? -- Fox News
Zimbabweans pour onto Harare streets in jubilation after Mugabe resigns -- Reuters
The old man is gone! Rapturous applause, dancing and cheering breaks out in Zimbabwe's Parliament as Mugabe's resignation is read out -- Daily Mail
Down with the dictator: How Mugabe's tyrannical 37-year rule came to an end after a lifetime of defiance -- Daily Mail
Theresa May's hails Robert Mugabe's resignation as an 'opportunity to forge a new path' and vows Britain will stand up to help as 'Zimbabwe's oldest friend' -- Daily Mail
Robert Mugabe: From 1980 to 2017 -- Aljazeera.com
Zimbabwe: From military takeover to Mugabe's exit -- AFP
Zimbabwe's Robert Mugabe in key dates -- AFP

Zimbabwe's Ruling Party Says Mugabe Impeachment To Go Ahead -- News Roundup

Daily Mail: Mugabe is 'too old, let his wife usurp government powers and created a 15-year economic tailspin in Zimbabwe': Draft impeachment declares despot is a 'source of instability' as lawmakers claim it will take two days to get rid of him

* Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe, 93, clung to power on Sunday night with a rambling speech in Harare
* The dictator vowed to hold a Zanu PF party conference in the coming weeks and said he would preside over it
* Tweets from his opponents suggest he was supposed to deliver a resignation speech, but went off-script
* There are claims Mugabe decided to fight on after intervention from his trusted cleric Father Fidelis Mukonori
* However, he is now said to have drafted a resignation letter having insisted on immunity for him and his wife
* Ruling Zanu PF said in a draft impeachment motion that Mugabe is a 'source of instability'

Robert Mugabe is a 'source of instability', has shown disrespect for the rule of law and is to blame for an economic tailspin over the past 15 years, his ruling party said in a draft impeachment motion today.

The 93-year-old could be thrown out of parliament within two days and is said to have demanded immunity for him and his wife, Grace, 52.

One member of the ruling Zanu PF party said the main charge against Mugabe was 'allowing his wife to usurp government powers' and that 'he is too old and cannot even walk without help'.

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More News On The Crisis In Zimbabwe

The Latest: Ruling party says Mugabe impeachment to go ahead -- AP
Zimbabwe crisis: What we know -- AFP
Deadline passes for Mugabe to resign -- BBC
Zimbabwe ruling party: Mugabe could be impeached in 2 days -- AP
Zimbabwe's Mugabe ignores party deadline to quit -- BBC
Noon deadline for defiant Mugabe passes as Zimbabwe crisis deepen -- AFP
Zimbabwe's opposition to decide on Mugabe impeachment Tuesday: chief whip -- Reuters
Zimbabwe: Ruling ZANU-PF party drafts impeachment motion against President Robert Mugabe -- ABC News Online
Zimbabwe: Mugabe ignores deadline to resign, faces impeachment -- UPI
Zimbabwe's ZANU-PF sets Mugabe impeachment ball rolling -- Reuters
Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe clings to power as deadline passes -- DW
Robert Mugabe ignores ZANU-PF deadline to resign -- Al Jazeera
You and I have work to do. Thank you and goodnight': Mugabe's rambling 20-minute speech in full, which ended not with a resignation but with a vow to fight on -- Daily Mail
Robert Mugabe swapped speeches, say Zimbabwe war veterans -- The Guardian
Zimbabwean students rage against defiant Mugabe -- AFP
Zimbabwe broadcaster on stand-by for address by military: ZBC workers -- Reuters
Figure known as ‘Crocodile’ could replace Zimbabwe president -- AP
'Strategist' Mugabe's refusal to go a classic tactic -- AFP
Zimbabwe: Social media reacts to Robert Mugabe's speech -- Al Jazeera
'You can't sack our dad!' Robert Mugabe's pampered playboy son posts defiant message on Facebook before his father refuses to step down as Zimbabwe's president -- Daily Mail
Gucci Grace is held by the rebels she threatened to crush: Mugabe’s wife is detained at secret military base -- Daily Mail
Harare's streets are deserted as Zimbabwe stays home to watch Mugabe's speech - but is this the calm before the storm? -- Daily Mail
Zimbabwe opposition wants inclusive political process after military intervention -- Reuters
Zimbabwe’s political drama: What just happened? A timeline -- AP
Zimbabwe takeover: Five things you should know -- BBC

Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe In A Rambling Speech Where He Was Suppose To Resign Declares He Will Not

Daily Mail: 'Mugabe is mad... we must remove him': Seething chiefs say 'the old man' went OFF SCRIPT when he should have resigned the presidency and warn him the time for 'kindness' is over

* Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe, 93, clung to power on Sunday night with a rambling speech in Harare
* The dictator vowed to hold a Zanu PF party conference in the coming weeks and said he would preside over it
* Tweets from his opponents suggest he was supposed to deliver a resignation speech, but went off-script
* Messages vowed to force 'the old man' from power as opposition leaders said he will be impeached Monday

Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe went off script when he refused to resign the presidency during a rambling speech on Sunday night, his opponents have claimed.

Sitting alongside a cadre of generals who have been keeping him under house arrest since Wednesday, the 93-year-old boldly vowed to fix problems within the ruling Zanu PF party himself rather than hand power to ousted vice president Emmerson Mnangagwa.

As Zimbabweans and millions watching across the world digested the news, a tweet from party headquarters - which has been issuing statements on behalf of Mugabe's opponents since the military took power - said: 'All the old man needed to do was stick to the script.

'Now we must remove him. We gave Robert Gabriel Mugabe every chance to have a dignified exit. But he is mad.'

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WNU Editor: I watched part of the speech (see video below) .... he is not aware on what is happening around him, nor is he aware on what are the consequences of his actions to him and to the future of Zimbabwe. They gave him a door to leave gracefully .... and it is obvious (to me) that he is not even aware of that. I can almost predict what will happen now .... the gloves will be taken off, a resignation letter will be produced where he has resigned, and that is the last that we will be seeing or hearing from this ex-tyrant. The man who will replace him has already returned to the country, and he has the full support of the security forces and of the party. He does not strike me as someone who is going to wait any more longer .... Figure known as ‘Crocodile’ could replace Zimbabwe president (AP).

More News On Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe Refusing To Resign In A Nationalized TV Speech

Live Shock at Mugabe's refusal to resign -- BBC
Robert Mugabe stuns Zimbabwe by failing to quit – as it happened -- The Guardian
President Mugabe stuns Zimbabwe by defying pressure to resign -- Reuters
Zimbabwe president defies mounting pressure to leave office -- AP
Mugabe defies resignation expectations in TV speech -- AFP
Chaos in Zimbabwe after Mugabe fails to announce expected resignation -- The Guardian
Zimbabwe's Robert Mugabe vows to stay on despite party pressure -- BBC
Robert Mugabe, in Speech to Zimbabwe, Refuses to Say if He Will Resign -- New York Times
Robert Mugabe keeps Zimbabwe waiting as he refuses to resign presidency -- The Independent
Zimbabwe's Mugabe vows to stay in power despite pressure to resign -- CNN
Zimbabwe: Robert Mugabe refuses to stand down as President, faces impeachment threats -- ABC News Online
Zimbabwe's Mugabe fails to deliver resignation -- DW
No resignation as Robert Mugabe addresses nation -- Al Jazeera
Zimbabwe's Mugabe defies expectations of resignation in address to nation -- RT
Mugabe: Social media reaction to Zimbabwe president's speech -- BBC

Zimbabwe's Ruling Party Fires Robert Mugabe As Leader. Given 24 Hours To Resign Or Face Impeachment

Daily Mail: Robert Mugabe is SACKED by his party and replaced by 'The Crocodile' - but the reviled Zimbabwean dictator is still president and goes on hunger strike after vowing to die for 'what is correct'

* Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe has refused to eat since Saturday in a protest against his house arrest
* Mugabe's nephew Patrick Zhuwao said on Saturday that Mr Mugabe was 'willing to die for what is correct'
* Zimbabwe's ruling ZANU-PF party remove Mugabe as its leader at a special meeting, officials said Sunday
* The party replaced Mugabe with the vice president he previously sacked, Emmerson 'Crocodile' Mnangagwa
* It follows rumours that the dictator had fled the country after hundreds of thousands protested his rule

Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe has been formally dismissed as the leader of the country's ruling party, Zanu-PF, and replaced by the vice president he previously sacked, Emmerson 'Crocodile' Mnangagwa.

It followed all ten Zimbabwean provinces passing no-confidence motions against the dictator on Friday. Although Mr Mugabe technically remains president, the fact that he no longer leads his party means that the end is almost certainly in sight for his 37-year reign.

The development placed Mr Mnangagwa within touching distance of the presidency, delayed only by Mr Mugabe's continued refusal to step down.

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More News On The Removal Of Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe

The Latest: Zimbabwe ruling party fires Mugabe as its chief -- AP
Zimbabwe: What's happening? (Latest Updates) -- Al Jazeera
Zimbabwe ruling party fires Mugabe as chief; now impeachment -- AP
Zimbabwe's ruling party expels Mugabe: war vets head -- Reuters
Mugabe ousted as ruling party chief as end nears -- AFP
Zimbabwe's ruling party fires Robert Mugabe as leader -- The Guardian
Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe removed as ZANU-PF party leader -- DW
Robert Mugabe removed as leader of Zimbabwe's ZANU-PF party -- ABC News Online
Robert Mugabe sacked as leader of ZANU-PF -- Al Jazeera
Zimbabwe's ruling party votes to oust Mugabe as leader -- UPI
Zimbabwe’s ruling party dismisses Mugabe as its leader in another blow to his presidency -- Washington Post
Robert Mugabe Is Ousted From His Ruling Party in Zimbabwe -- New York Times
Zimbabwe's Robert Mugabe dismissed as country's leader -- Fox News
Zimbabwe's ruling party readies to expel Mugabe -- CNN
Zimbabwe: A guide to what's happened so far in Mugabe drama -- Fox News

Pressure Builds For Zimbabwean Leader Robert Mugabe To Resign As Thousands Protest In The Streets For His Ouster

The Guardian: Zimbabwe’s ruling party expected to sack Robert Mugabe on Sunday

Reports say Zanu-PF will also dismiss president’s preferred successor Grace Mugabe as protesters gather in Harare

Zimbabwe’s ruling Zanu-PF party is expected to meet on Sunday to sack Robert Mugabe and reinstate the vice-president he dismissed, Emmerson Mnangagwa.

A party central committee meeting scheduled for 8.30am UK time would also dismiss the president’s preferred successor, his wife, Grace, from her role as head of the party’s women’s league, Reuters reported.

Mugabe’s 37-year rule has in effect been at an end since the army seized control in the early hours of Wednesday, confining him to his residence.

Shortly after news of Sunday’s meeting emerged, a convoy left Mugabe’s official residence in Harare to the jeers of onlookers, although it was unclear if he was inside.

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WNU Editor: I cannot believe that he is still refusing to quit .... Robert Mugabe refuses to quit as Zimbabweans march for his ouster (CNN), even with his own political party telling him to leave .... Mugabe Era Winds Down as Ruling Party Backs His Ouster (Bloomberg).

More News On The Pressure Building For Zimbabwean Leader Robert Mugabe To Resign

The Latest: Mugabe, army commander to meet again Sunday -- AP
Zimbabwe: What's happening? -- Al Jazeera
Giddy Zimbabweans gather in capital to march against Mugabe -- AP
Party set to sack Mugabe, Zimbabweans celebrate expected downfall -- Reuters
Robert Mugabe 'to be sacked by his Zanu-PF party on Sunday' -- SKY News
Zimbabwe crowds rejoice as they demand end to Mugabe rule -- BBC
Zimbabweans say Mugabe must quit now, but more talks planned -- Miami Herald
Zimbabweans elated at prospect of Robert Mugabe downfall -- DW
Robert Mugabe: Thousands take to streets of Harare in protest against Zimbabwe President -- ABC News Online
Zimbabweans demand Mugabe's resignation at Harare rally -- Al Jazeera
Zimbabwe: Mugabe's grip on power appears close to collapse -- The Guardian
Zimbabwe: A guide to what’s happened so far in Mugabe drama -- AP

Coup In Zimbabwe -- News Updates November 17, 2017

This is the first picture of Robert Mugabe (back centre) after he was placed under house arrest in a military coup - amid claims he is refusing to step down as Zimbabwe's president. Also in the room, is military chief General Constantino Chiwenga (in fatigues), defence minister Sydney Sekerayami (to Mugabe's left) and South African politicians Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula (yellow headwear) and Bongani Bongo (in the light grey suit)

Daily Mail: Robert Mugabe is pictured for the first time since Zimbabwe coup as the dictator REFUSES to stand down following negotiations with the military

* Robert Mugabe was detained in his own home after the military staged a 'bloodless correction' yesterday
* Deposed 93-year-old is holed up in his £7.5million Blue Roof estate overnight amid calls for him to step down
* Wife Grace is with him and the pair are insisting on the dictator finishing his presidential term, a source claims
* A Catholic priest is mediating a potential political exit for Mugabe, but the president 'wants a leadership vote'
* Pictures show a suited Mugabe locked in talks with military chief General Constantino Chiwenga and officials
* Army chief visited Beijing last week sparking speculation that he asked China for approval to launch the coup

This is the first picture of Robert Mugabe after he was placed under house arrest in a military coup - amid claims he is refusing to step down as Zimbabwe's president.

The suited 93-year-old can be seen sitting in an arm chair during talks aimed at forcing the dictator to agree to an 'honorable exit' from his position.

It also shows military chief General Constantino Chiwenga in fatigues as well as Zimbabwean defence minister Sydney Sekerayami and South African politicians Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and Bongani Bongo.

There was still no sign, however, of his wife, Grace, 52, who is said to have been with Mugabe overnight at their £7.5million Blue Roof mansion in Harare.

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Coup In Zimbabwe -- News Updates November 17, 2017

Mugabe meets with army commander as crisis solution sought -- AP
Zimbabwe latest: Mugabe in crunch talks over his future -- BBC
Zimbabwe: Mugabe and military talks continue amid political limbo -- The Guardian
Zimbabwe on Edge Amid Negotiations After Military Takeover -- Voice of America
Zimbabwe crisis: Army plots 'soft transition' after Robert Mugabe loses control in Harare and is placed under house arrest -- Evening Standard
Zimbabwe: Robert Mugabe under house arrest -- DW
Mugabe Must Resign in the Interest of People of Zimbabwe - Opposition Leader -- Sputnik
Zimbabwe's Tsvangirai calls on Mugabe to resign -- Reuters
AU condemns Zimbabwe's military 'coup' -- Independent Online
Region bids for solution as crisis grips Zimbabwe -- Aljazeera
African leaders meet to mull military takeover of Zimbabwe -- UPI
AU urges Zimbabwe to address political crisis lawfully -- Xinhua
Tanks in the streets and long lines to withdraw money — here's what Zimbabwe looks like under military control -- Business Insider

WHO Has Cancelled The Appointment Of Zimbabwe's Robert Mugabe As A Goodwill Ambassador

BBC: WHO cancels Robert Mugabe goodwill ambassador role

The World Health Organization has revoked the appointment of Zimbabwe's Robert Mugabe as a goodwill ambassador following a widespread outcry.

"I have listened carefully to all who have expressed their concerns," WHO head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a statement.

He had previously praised Zimbabwe for its commitment to public health.

But critics pointed out that Zimbabwe's healthcare system had collapsed under Mr Mugabe's 30-year rule.

Staff often go without pay, medicines are in short supply, and Mr Mugabe, who has outlived the average life expectancy in his country by three decades, travels abroad for medical treatment.

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Update #1: Mugabe removed as WHO goodwill ambassador after outcry: statement (Reuters)
Update #2: WHO Removes Mugabe as 'Good-Will Ambassador' (New York Times)

WNU Editor: Robert Mugabe is the poster child for what a racist, uncaring, greedy, and incompetent but murderous leader looks like. The next step should be the resignation of the idiot within WHO who wanted Robert Mugabe to be its goodwill ambassador.

World Health Organization Names Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe Goodwill Ambassador

CNN: WHO is under fire after naming Robert Mugabe a goodwill ambassador

(CNN)The World Health Organization is under fire after it selected Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe as a goodwill ambassador.

The public health agency announced the decision this week, saying the African leader will focus on noncommunicable diseases such as heart attacks and strokes on the continent.

Mugabe has long been criticized for corruption and abuse of power, and the decision to name him a goodwill ambassador for WHO stunned health experts and rights activists.

"The government of Robert Mugabe has brutalized human rights activists, crushed democracy dissidents, and turned the breadbasket of Africa -- and its health system -- into a basket case," said Hillel Neuer, executive director of UN Watch, which monitors the performance of WHO, a UN agency that focuses on international public health.

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WNU Editor: Aside from the fact that he is a racist .... 'White farmers' killers should not be prosecuted,' Mugabe declares (News24) .... before Mugabe assumed power Zimbabwe was the bread-basket for this part of Africa .... no more now. High infant mortality rate. HIV and other diseases endemic. Hunger wide spread. And when Robert Mugabe needs medical treatment .... he gets it in Singapore .... Zimbabwe's Mugabe in Singapore for medical treatment- paper (Reuters). This is why this appointment (among many other reasons) is a travesty.

More News On The World Health Organization Naming Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe Goodwill Ambassador

Robert Mugabe's WHO appointment condemned as 'an insult' -- BBC
WHO criticized for naming Robert Mugabe as 'goodwill ambassador' -- DW
UK ‘disappointed’ as Robert Mugabe becomes WHO goodwill ambassador -- The Guardian
WHO cites Zimbabwe record as outrage grows over Mugabe honour -- AFP

Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe: 'Those Who Murdered White Farmers In The 2000s Will Never Be Prosecuted'

A Zimbabwean farmer addresses a meeting of white commercial farmers in the capital Harare, February 5, 2010. PHILIMON BULAWAYO/REUTERS

Newsweek: Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe: 'We Will Not Prosecute Killers of White Farmers'

Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe has said that people who murdered white farmers during a government-sanctioned purge in the 2000s will never be prosecuted.

The 93-year-old president addressed a rally in Harare on Monday to mark Heroes’ Day, which commemorates soldiers who have fought for the country, particularly in its independence war against British colonizers.

Zimbabwe implemented a controversial land reform program in 2000 that saw squatters invade and seize hundreds of white-owned farms around the country. The violent seizures resulted in the murder of several white farmers, with many more displaced, and close associates of Mugabe given large chunks of land.

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WNU Editor: I just learned about this story right now. Did a Google search and aside from some news websites in South Africa .... no one else is covering this story.

Zimbabwe's Mugabe Celebrates 93rd Birthday With Supporters

The Guardian: He’s 93 and frail, but Mugabe pledges to carry on ruling

Marking his birthday with a 93kg cake and a rally with loyal fans, the president is in no hurry to quit despite the chaos of his rule.

There were dancers, musicians, singers and flag-waving students – and, astonishingly, a break in the belts of rain that had been sweeping in across the sodden plains from the Matopo hills for days.

On the podium raised above a muddy school sports field in south-west Zimbabwe, Robert Gabriel Mugabe stepped up to the microphone. Wearing a white shirt, black tie, black cowboy hat and a jacket covered in his own portrait, Mugabe, in power since 1980, stood to thank his supporters for joining him to celebrate last week’s 93rd birthday which was, he said, “yet another chapter in my life”.

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WNU Editor: No comment is necessary.

More News On Zimbabwe's Mugabe Celebrating His 93rd Birthday With Supporters

It's Robert Mugab-me! Zimbabwean president dons a cowboy hat and a jacket with his own FACE on it as he celebrates his 93rd birthday with a lavish party -- Daily Mail
Zimbabwe's Mugabe marks 93rd birthday saying ZANU-PF can choose successor -- CBC/Reuters
At 93rd birthday bash, Robert Mugabe says he won't quit -- Al Jazeera
Mugabe celebrates 93rd birthday with extravagant party -- DW
Zimbabwe's Mugabe Marks 93rd Birthday in Opposition Area -- Bloomberg/AP

Zimbabwe Braces for Turmoil

Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe addresses a speech, on April 18, 2008 during celebrations for the country's independence. Photograph: Alexander Joe/AFP

New York Times: Seeing President Mugabe’s Frailty, Zimbabwe Braces for Turmoil

HARARE, Zimbabwe — The independence festivities took place just as they have for decades: led by President Robert Mugabe, the only leader Zimbabwe has ever had.

But as Mr. Mugabe, 92, inspected a military parade during the celebrations last month, he did something unusual. When his vehicle stopped in front of a framed picture of the president, Mr. Mugabe bowed before his own portrait. Zimbabweans were stunned. Had their president grown so feeble, they wondered, that he could no longer recognize the person in front of him?

Mr. Mugabe, the world’s oldest head of state, said this year that he would preside over Zimbabwe “until God says, ‘Come.’ ” His increasingly powerful wife, Grace, vowed that her husband would rule from a special wheelchair until he was 100.

But the end of an era looms over this capital. As Mr. Mugabe has grown visibly weaker in the past year, talk of his death dominates the private conversations of the governing class, leading to some cutthroat maneuvering for the endgame.

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WNU Editor: When tyrants leave (naturally or not) the outcome is usually harsh. In the case of Zimbabwe it is easy to predict what will happen after Mugabe has died .... a power struggle that will be eventually decided by who controls the guns and security apparatus. And as for Robert Mugabe's legacy .... another revolutionary leader whose claim to fame will be the methods that he used to impose harm and brutality among many of his citizens.

United Nations Appoints Robert Mugabe As Their New International Envoy For Tourism

Photo: Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe. United Nations

Robert Mugabe Asked To Be New UN Envoy For Tourism -- The Guardian

The Zimbabwe president, accused of ethnic cleansing and bankrupting his country, asked to champion tourism.

With a line-up that includes Drew Barrymore, David Beckham, Orlando Bloom, and Ricky Martin, the UN's choice of ambassadors has been known to cause raised eyebrows or the odd smirk.

Seldom, however, has there been such anger, or questioning of the organisation's credibility, as that greeting the appointment of a new international envoy for tourism: Robert Mugabe.

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My Comment: One more reason why the U.N. should not get their hands on this.

Update: Drudge running Robert Mugabe's spin... developing... -- Foreign Policy

Robert Mugabe Is Not On His 'Death Bed'

Robert Mugabe Back In Zimbabwe And 'Fit As A Fiddle' -- The Telegraph

President Robert Mugabe is back in Zimbabwe and "fit as a fiddle" despite reports that he had been on his deathbed during a trip to Singapore.

The 88 year-old is said by those watching his arrival to have "bounded" down the stairs of a charter plane that landed in Harare just after 7am on Thursday morning.

He walked unaided, side by side with Vice President Joice Mujuru down a red carpet to a waiting car, pausing only to hop over a puddle on the rainy tarmac and greet the assortment of ministers and military men who turned out to welcome him home.

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Previous Post: Zimbabwe's Mugabe On His Death Bed?

My Comment: I guess reports of him being on his "death bed" were .... hmmmm .... greatly exaggerated.

Is Zimbabwe's Mugabe On His Death Bed?

Photo: SERIOUSLY ILL?: Zimbabwe's president Robert Mugabe is reportedly battling cancer. Reuters

Zimbabwe Regime Dismisses Mugabe Deathbed Reports -- The Guardian

Claims leader is fighting for his life in a Singapore hospital are malicious hogwash, senior Zanu-PF party officials say.

Officials in Zimbabwe have dismissed as "hogwash" reports that President Robert Mugabe is close to death in a Singapore hospital.

Speculation about the 88-year-old's condition spread like wildfire after his absence forced the postponement of a cabinet meeting. But Sydney Sekeramayi, the state security minister, told the NewsDay newspaper: "It's just the wish of our detractors. The president is alive and well." Other media reports quoted Webster Shamu, Zimbabwe's information minister, as saying: "It's a lot of hogwash."

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More News On Rumors That Mugabe Is On His Deathbed

Cancer-stricken Robert Mugabe is 'fighting for his life' in Singapore hospital -- Daily Mail
Mugabe battling for life in Singapore, cabinet meetings suspended -- Zimbabwe Mail
Riddle over Mugabe's visit to Singapore hospital -- Sydney Morning Herald
Robert Mugabe said to be fighting for life in Singapore hospital -- The Australian
Zimbabwe says leader isn’t dying, just on vacation -- MSNBC
Zimbabwe officials deny reports Robert Mugabe is on 'deathbed' -- The Telegraph
Rumours that Robert Mugabe is deathly ill ‘a lot of hogwash,’ Zimbabwe says -- National Post/AFP
Zimbabwe denies Mugabe gravely ill in Singapore hospital -- Sydney Morning Herald
Zimbabwe's Mugabe "well, on holiday" - officials -- Reuters

Zimbabwe Talks Are One Step Away From Collapse

South African President Thabo Mbeki (R) is welcomed on arrival at Harare International airport by Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe August 9 2008. Mbeki, the region's Zimbabwe mediator, is in Harare and is due to take part in meetings aimed at resolving the crisis resulting from Mugabe's victory in a presidential election in June that was boycotted by the opposition and widely condemned abroad. Picture taken August 9. (Philimon Bulawayo - /Reuters)

Confusion Reigns In Zimbabwe Talks -- Yahoo News/AP

HARARE, Zimbabwe - A third day of talks over Zimbabwe's governance wound up on a conflicting note Tuesday amid reports that President Robert Mugabe and the leader of an opposition faction had reached a power-sharing agreement.

Shortly after the talks concluded, officials from Mugabe's party and the main opposition movement said the two sides had agreed on the plan, but a spokesman for the splinter group later denied the claim.

The reported agreement excludes Morgan Tsvangirai, the leader of the main Movement for Democratic Change. He won the first round of presidential elections in March but boycotted the runoff to protest widespread violence against opposition supporters.

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More News On Zimbabwe

Mugabe clings to power after reaching coalition deal with breakaway MDC faction -- The Guardian
Reports of Side Deal in Zimbabwe -- New York Times
Mugabe clings on in pact with MDC faction -- Financial Times
Mugabe, MDC Breakaway Leader Sign Deal, Zanu-PF Says (Update1) -- Bloomberg
Zimbabweans Express Disappointment after Opposition Leader Walks Out of Peace Talks -- Voice Of America
Zimbabwe's MDC faction denies deal signed with Mugabe -- Reuters
Splinter group denies Zimbabwe deal -- The Age
FACTBOX: Zimbabwe: its people, land and economy -- Reuters

My Comment: A considerable amount of confusion is coming out from the news services .... and this is not a good sign. I am not surprise that Robert Mugabe and his friends are trying their best to keep power .... and also be positioned to enjoy the benefits that foreign aid and open borders will give to them if a political negotiated settlement is reached.

It is not going to happen. But in the interim we must go through this phase in believing that we are actually accomplishing something. Unfortunately, instability and suffering will be the end product of this charade.

Prairie Pundit sums it up best:

This deal condemns Zimbabwe to more misrule by the most inept leader in the history of governments. Mugabe's name will become a metaphor for governmental incompetence. It will also become a metaphor for despots. If Mbeki thinks this gets South Africa off the hook he is as goofy as Mugabe.

China Finally Turns On Mugabe And Bars Him From The Olympics

From The Daily Mail:

Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe will not attend the Opening Ceremony of the Beijing Olympics after Chinese officials are reported to have told him he is not welcome.

The disgraced 74-year-old leader had planned to attend Friday's showpiece opening alongside world leaders such as American President George Bush and French President Nicholas Sarkozy in a clear snub to his international critics.

But the Chinese authorities are said to have bowed to intense political lobbying from representatives of world leaders who will be there and Mugabe has agreed not to attend.

The Chinese decision is seen as a clear indication they want nothing to overshadow the opening and a "gesture" to critics of the Zimbabwean leader.

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More On Zimbabwe

Power-sharing deal close in Zimbabwe - report -- Reuters Africa
Mugabe set for 'ceremonial president' role -- Scotsman
Mugabe Zimbabwe's major Olympic doubt -- New Zimbabwe
Mugabe told by China to stay away from Olympic opening -- Bangkok Post
Mugabe cronies reportedly stashing US dollars into foreign accounts -- Sunday Standard
RBZ's Currency reform off target -- Harare Tribune

My Comment: Guess who is not coming to dinner. What I find amazing about this story is that this is the first time Robert Mugabe has actually taken someone's advice.