Zimbabwe’s President Mnangagwa Wins Another Term. The Opposition Has Rejected The Result

 

Washington Post: Zimbabwe opposition cries foul after leader Mnangagwa wins second term 

NAIROBI — Zimbabwe’s opposition on Sunday accused the ruling party of “blatant and gigantic fraud” after authorities declared the incumbent president the winner of last week’s election, despite allegations of voter intimidation and a crackdown on government critics. 

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, whose members are chosen by the president, announced late Saturday that President Emmerson Mnangagwa had won a second five-year term with more than 52 percent of the vote. 

According to the commission’s results, opposition candidate Nelson Chamisa garnered just 44 percent. 

The elections were held on Wednesday and extended into Thursday after some regions, including the capital, Harare, did not receive their ballots on time.  

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WNU Editor: Elections commission says Mnangagwa won 52.6 percent of the vote compared with 44 percent for challenger Nelson Chamisa. 

Zimbabwe’s President Mnangagwa Wins Another Term  

Zimbabwe’s opposition alleges ‘gigantic fraud’ in vote that extends the ZANU-PF party’s 43-year rule -- AP  

Zimbabwe president denies poll fraud as opposition rejects his re-election -- Reuters  

Zimbabwean opposition leader says election was ‘gigantic fraud’ -- The Guardian  

Zimbabwe’s President Mnangagwa reelected after tense contest -- CNN  

Zimbabwe’s President Mnangagwa wins second term, opposition rejects result -- Al Jazeera

Zimbabwe Rationing Electricity 12 Hours Per Day

Bloomberg: Zimbabwe Utility to Cut Power by 12 Hours a Day Amid Shortage 

The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Co. said Sunday it has begun daily 12-hour power cuts due limited generation at its thermal plant and repairs on the dam at Kariba Hydro Power Station. 

The company “is experiencing a power shortfall due to generation constraints at Hwange Power Station, limited imports and a program of dam wall rehabilitation at Kariba,” ZETDC said in an emailed statement. 

The power shortfall is being managed through load shedding in order to “balance the power supply available and the connected load.”  

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Update #1: Zimbabwe announces 12-hour load shedding (News24)  

Update #2: 'You Can't Print Electricity' - Zimbabwe Begins Daily 12-Hour Power Cuts Amid Shortage (Zero Hedge)  

WNU Editor: When I first started this blog 14 years ago I focused on the Sri Lankan civil war and the disastrous and murderous policies of Robert Mugabe in Zimbabwe. Mugabe may be gone, but his legacy of neglect, corruption, and incompetence lives on.

Zimbabwe Offers $3.5 Billion Compensation To 4,500 White Farmers But Says It Is International Donors Who Should Pay Them

Mugabe's successor Emmerson Mnangagwa, pictured above, said the Wednesday deal was 'historic in many respects'

Daily Mail/AFP: Zimbabwe offers £2.7 billion compensation to 4,500 white farmers whose land was seized under Robert Mugabe

* Zimbabwe on Wednesday signed a compensation agreement with white farmers
* Their land was seized over 20 years ago under country's controversial reforms
* Compensation is for built structures including farmhouses, irrigation systems

Zimbabwe on Wednesday signed a US$3.5 billion compensation agreement with white farmers whose land was seized over 20 years ago under the country's controversial reforms.

Then president Robert Mugabe forcibly took more than 4,000 farms from the country's 4,500 white large-scale commercial farmers.

The compensation is for built structures including farmhouses and irrigation systems on the farms which were redistributed to landless blacks.

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Update: Zimbabwe signs billion-dollar deal to repay white farmers (AP)

WNU Editor: What a cruel joke. The Zimbabwean President says that this commitment 'brings closure and a new beginning in the history of the land discourse in Zimbabwe'. No it does not. The commitment for compensation is a measly $75,000/farm. And there is no money on the table. The money has to be raised by the farmers themselves from international sources?!?!?!? That may make sense to the Zombabwean government and their supporters, but to me that is insane. This is why Zimbabwe is a disaster. Former President Mugabe was a monster, but the people who now run the country are just as incompetent.

Zimbabwe's Currency Collapses Again

Zero Hedge: Zimbabwe Shutters Stock Exchange, Blocks All Mobile Money Payments As Currency Collapses (Again)

For the fifth time in Zimbabwe's history, its currency has just collapsed...

As Decrypt.co's Adriana Hamacher reports, Zimbabwe’s government suspended all mobile money payments, including operations by dominant provider Ecocash on Friday. The Zimbabwe Stock Exchange was also ordered to stop trading, in a dramatic escalation of the nation’s currency crisis.

The government claims the move is to avert a conspiracy to sabotage the collapsing Zimbabwe dollar. But millions of Zimbabweans rely on digital payment operators because obtaining physical cash is so difficult. Ecocash is also commonly used to buy Bitcoin.

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Update: Zimbabwe halts stock trading, mobile money transfers (The Guardian)

WNU Editor: The Zimbabwe government is blaming everyone but themselves for their chaos. Here is an easy prediction. With these new measures the situation is going to get worse.

UN Report: Zimbabwe On Brink Of Man-Made Starvation

VOA: Zimbabwe on Brink of Man-made Starvation, UN Expert Says

HARARE, ZIMABABWE - A U.N. official is warning that Zimbabwe is on the brink of starvation, with millions facing food insecurity.

Hilal Elver, U.N. special rapporteur on the right to food, said Thursday that the government must reduce Zimbabwe's dependence on imported food and increase self-sufficiency to counter effects of the struggling economy and recurring drought.

Orpah Chiwashira, founder of Faith Community Support, a charity that provides meals to those in need, said Zimbabwe's struggling economy was taking a toll.

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More News On Zimbabwe Being On The Brink Of Man-Made Starvation

Zimbabwe facing man-made starvation, says UN expert -- UN News
Once the breadbasket of Africa, Zimbabwe now on brink of man-made starvation, UN rights expert warns -- Relief Web
UN expert: Zimbabwe hunger ‘shocking’ for country not at war -- AP
Zimbabwe facing 'man-made' starvation, UN expert warns -- News24/AFP
Zimbabwe 'on brink of man-made starvation', UN warns -- BBC
Zimbabwe's food crisis: 'Food security is national security' -- Al Jazeera

Zimbabwe Police Violently Break Up Protests Against The Economic Crisis

The Independent: Zimbabwe: Police fire teargas, beat up anti-government protesters demonstrating against economic crisis

About one third of country’s 15 million people are in dire need of food aid

Zimbabwe’s police have attacked opposition protesters with batons and fired teargas at crowds gathered in the centre of Harare, organised in defiance of a ban.

More than a hundred supporters of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) gathered in Africa Unity Square ​to demonstrate against the government’s handling of the economy and its repressive crackdown against activists.

Police, who had banned the protest on Thursday, a move upheld by Zimbabwe’s High Court on Friday morning, ​fired teargas to disperse the demonstrators, who ran into nearby streets, and arrested several among the crowd.

Many shops remained closed and residents reportedly stayed off the streets.

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More News On The Unrest In Zimbabwe

The Latest: Protesters, police clash in Zimbabwe's capital -- AP
Zimbabwe protesters face tear gas, beatings from police during anti-government demonstrations -- FOX News/AP
Zimbabwe opposition says avoided bloodshed in standoff with 'fascist' government -- Reuters
Police, protesters clash in Zimbabwe capital after ban on demonstration -- France 24
Zimbabwe protests: Opposition MDC backs down after police ban -- BBC
Zimbabwe police violently break up protests after court ban -- Al Jazeera

Two Million Zimbabweans On The Brink Of Starvation

As a result of the devastating Cyclone Idai and an El Nino induced drought, urgent action and much international cooperation are required. This morning, I met with David Beasley, @WFPChief, to discuss crucial drought relief assistance & support from the international community. pic.twitter.com/PYLfanMD6R

— President of Zimbabwe (@edmnangagwa) August 7, 2019

Al Jazeera: UN: More than two million Zimbabweans on the brink of starvation

WFP says 2.3 million people in rural Zimbabwe face starvation because of an El-Nino induced drought and economic shocks.

More than two million Zimbabweans are on the cusp of "starvation", the United Nations food agency has said, launching a $331.5m aid appeal to help the southern African country recover from a devastating drought.

David Beasley, executive director of the World Food Programme (WFP), said on Tuesday that 2.3 million people in rural Zimbabwe were in "crisis emergency mode" and need food aid now.

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More News On A UN Report Declaring That Two Million Zimbabweans Are On The Brink Of Starvation

UN boosts humanitarian appeal to help tackle Zimbabwe’s ‘worst-ever’ hunger crisis -- UN News
Zimbabwe: A third of population faces food crisis, says UN -- BBC
Millions in Zimbabwe facing starvation after severe droughts, UN food agency says -- CNN
Zimbabweans are ‘marching towards starvation’ -- Mail & Guardian/AFP

Zimbabwe Says Violent Crackdown Just A 'Taste Of Thinsg To Come'. Internet Has Been Shut Down.

Police stand guard as people arrested during protests appeal in court in Harare, Zimbabwe, on January 18 2019. Image: Reuters/Philimon Bulawayo

BBC: Zimbabwe protests: Crackdown is just a 'taste of things to come'

The Zimbabwean government says the security forces' response to this week's protests in which a number of people have reportedly died is just "a foretaste of things to come".

News of a violent crackdown has emerged despite the government blocking social media sites.

Local rights groups said at least 12 people had been killed and many more beaten by security forces.

The protests were sparked on Monday by a sharp rise in the price of fuel.

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More News On The Unrest In Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe accuses 'rogue elements' of inciting violence against protesters -- CNN
Zimbabwe accused of violent crackdown on protests -- Al Jazeera
Security roadblocks all-over Zimbabwe -- Bulawayo24
Zimbabwe blocks Facebook, WhatsApp and Twitter amid crackdown -- BBC
Zimbabwe shuts down social media as UN slams military crackdown -- CNN

Zimbabwe Fuel Protests Escalate After Prices More Than Double

The Guardian: Zimbabwe police fire live rounds during general strike protests

Live ammunition and teargas fired as nationwide shutdown over cost of living turns violent

Police in Zimbabwe have fired live ammunition and teargas during running battles with groups of young people trying to enforce a nationwide shutdown to protest against the rising cost of living.

The clashes were the worst outbreak of disorder in the southern African country since the aftermath of elections last year, when six civilians were shot dead by police.

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WNU Editor: It appears that the police are overwhelmed .... Looting feared as Zimbabwe protests turn violent, 'overwhelm police' (Times Live). In the meantime the President is out of the country on a five nation tour (he is Russia today) .... Zimbabwe Pres Mnangagwa begins 5 nation tour.

More News On The Growing Unrest In Zimbabwe

Mass protests in Zimbabwe after fuel prices more than doubled -- Reuters
Zimbabwe army deploys to disperse fuel protests, 13 injured -- AP
Zimbabwe protests after petrol and diesel price hike -- BBC
Zimbabwe fuel protests turn violent after prices more than double -- CNN
Sharp fuel hike sparks protests in Zimbabwe -- AFP
Zimbabwe police clash with protesters at fuel rise protests -- AFP
Zimbabweans Are Left Reeling as Cash-Starved Economy Implodes -- Bloomberg
Angry Zimbabweans riot after 150 percent fuel price rise imposed -- Al Jazeera
AP Explains: Why Zimbabwe’s military supports Mnangagwa -- Andrew Meldrum, AP

Unrest In Zimbabwe Over Election Results

DW: Zimbabwe: Deadly clashes erupt over election 'results manipulation'

Deaths were reported in Zimbabwe after soldiers opened fire at protesters in the capital. President Emmerson Mnangagwa urged "peace" as his rivals blamed the government of tampering with election results.

At least three people were killed in Harare on Wednesday as anti-government protesters clashed with security forces over the results of Monday's election. Reporters at the scene saw armored vehicles and helicopters deployed in Zimbabwe's capital, as protesters fled from soldiers firing live rounds.

By evening, police had declared a ban on public gatherings. The army was set to stay on the streets until "this situation is over," authorities said. DW reporter Melanie Cura Daball in Harare described the heavy police presence as akin to a "silent state of emergency."

Earlier, protesters had taken to the streets to urge the authorities to release the official presidential election results.

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More News On Unrest In Zimbabwe Over Election Results

The Latest: Zimbabwe activists condemn military crackdown -- Washington Post/AP
Zimbabwe election: Shops shut in Harare as army patrols -- BBC
Zimbabwe warns of crackdown after deadly violence mars vote -- CNN
Zimbabwe's Mnangagwa says talking to opposition to defuse tension -- Reuters
Zimbabwe president says seeks to end election crisis 'peacefully' -- News 24
Commonwealth denounces 'excessive' force by Zimbabwe security services -- Reuters
Zimbabwean's old Mugabe-era fears return with new leadership -- Ben Ferguson, VICE

Zimbabwe Chooses A New Leader In First Post-Mugabe Election

Reuters: Zimbabwe counts votes after first post-Mugabe election

HARARE (Reuters) - Counting began in Zimbabwe on Monday in the first election since the removal of former president Robert Mugabe, a watershed vote that could pull a pariah state back into the international fold and spark an economic revival.

The election is a two-horse race between 75-year-old President Emmerson Mnangagwa, a long-time Mugabe ally, and 40-year-old Nelson Chamisa, a lawyer and pastor who is vying to become Zimbabwe’s youngest head of state.

Mnangagwa is viewed as the frontrunner, though the latest opinion polls showed a tight race. There will be a runoff on Sept. 8 if no candidate wins more than half the votes.

Voting closed at 7 p.m. (1700 GMT). The official result has to be announced within five days but there will likely be an indication of the outcome on Tuesday.

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More News On Zimbabwe's Election To Choose A New Government

The Latest: Counting underway in Zimbabwe's historic vote -- ABC News/AP
Zimbabwe election: High turnout in first post-Mugabe poll -- BBC
Zimbabwe Holds a Peaceful Vote, Its First Ballot Since Mugabe’s Fall -- The New York Times
The Zimbabwe election isn't just about who wins, but how it's won -- Wilf Mbanga, The Guardian
Zimbabwe's historic election: A look at the top candidates -- FOX News/AP

Zimbabwe Has Officially Declared Robert Mugabe's Birthday A National Holiday

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

BBC: Zimbabwe officially declares Mugabe national holiday

Zimbabwe has officially declared 21 February to be Robert Gabriel Mugabe National Youth Day, thereby making the former president's birthday a public holiday, the Herald newspaper reports.

New President Emmerson Mnangagwa is expected to form a cabinet this week.

Mr Mugabe resigned last week after a military intervention and days of mass protests.

The police and army are to stage joint patrols as the country returns to normal, the authorities have said.

They have already received reports of looting and illegal occupation of properties, particularly farms and houses.

Police had not been seen in public until 21 November when Mr Mugabe resigned and they slowly started returning to work. The army had effectively been in charge.

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Update #1: The Latest: Zimbabwe declares Mugabe’s birthday a holiday (Washington Post/AP)
Update #2: Government officially declares Mugabe's birthday a holiday (New Zimbabwe)

WNU Editor: The new government is trying to rehabilitate him. It is not going to succeed.

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.

Zimbabwe's Robert Mugabe's Golden Handshake Amounts To A $10mn Payoff & Legal Immunity

Robert Mugabe and his wife Grace will have their family assets safeguarded. Photograph: Philimon Bulawayo/Reuters

The Guardian: Zimbabwe: Robert Mugabe to get $10m payoff and immunity for his family

Ousted president was also promised that his salary would continue to be paid for life, reveals senior Zanu-PF official

Robert Mugabe and his wife will receive a “golden handshake” worth many millions of dollars as part of a deal negotiated before the resignation of the ageing autocrat last week. The exact sums to be paid to the former president and his wife Grace are still unclear, though one senior ruling party official with direct knowledge of the agreement said the total would not be less than $10m.

The official said that Mugabe, who has been granted immunity from prosecution and a guarantee that no action will be taken against his family’s extensive business interests, would receive a “cash payment of $5m” immediately, with more paid in coming months.

The 93-year-old’s $150,000 salary will also be paid until his death. The 52-year-old first lady, reviled for her extravagance and greed, will then receive half that amount for the rest of her life.

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Update: Golden handshake: Mugabe family reportedly offered $10mn payoff & legal immunity (RT)

WNU Editor: Here is an interesting read .... CNN exclusive: Mediator tells how Mugabe was persuaded to step down (CNN).

Emmerson Mnangagwa Has Been Sworn In As Zimbabwe's New President -- News Roundup

New York Times: Emmerson Mnangagwa Is Sworn In as Zimbabwe’s 2nd Leader Since Independence

HARARE, Zimbabwe — Emmerson Mnangagwa, who fled into a brief exile after losing a power struggle less than three weeks ago, became Zimbabwe’s new president on Friday — succeeding Robert Mugabe, the leader he had backed for decades before helping oust him last week.

“We should never remain hostages of our past,” Mr. Mnangagwa said in his inaugural address. Referring specifically to Mr. Mugabe, he said: “To me personally, he remains a father, mentor, comrade in arms and my leader.”

In a rapid reversal of fortunes that abruptly ended one of the longest reigns in Africa’s post-colonial history, Mr. Mnangagwa (pronounced muh-nahn-GAGH-wah) was sworn in at a ceremony at the National Sports Stadium in Harare, the capital.

Mr. Mnangagwa — who served for half a century as his predecessor’s right-hand man — became only the second leader of Zimbabwe since independence in 1980.

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WNU Editor: Opposition leaders and their supporters were barred from this swearing in of Emmerson Mnangagwa. So much for serving all the citizens.

Emmerson Mnangagwa Has Been Sworn In As Zimbabwe's New President -- News Roundup

Latest From Zimbabwe: Live -- BBC
The Latest: Zimbabwe called ‘at a moment of change -- AP
Zimbabwe's Mnangagwa takes power and vows to serve all citizens -- BBC
Mnangagwa: the ruthless 'Crocodile' now ruling Zimbabwe -- AFP
‘We dare not squander the moment:’ Zimbabwe’s new leader -- AP
Mnangagwa vows to rebuild Zimbabwe and serve all citizens -- Reuters
Zimbabwe: Emmerson Mnangagwa sworn in as President in front of thousands -- ABC News Online
Zimbabwe: Emmerson Mnangagwa sworn in as president -- DW
Emmerson Mnangagwa sworn in as Zimbabwe president -- Al Jazeera
Emmerson Mnangagwa promises 'free and fair' elections in Zimbabwe -- The Guardian
Grand inauguration pushes Mugabe era into the past -- AFP
Mugabe's successor and the 'poisoned ice cream' plot -- AFP
Zimbabwe asks if new leader, a Mugabe ally, can bring change -- Andrew Meldrum, AP
Sorrow and admiration in Mugabe's home village -- AFP
In pictures: Zimbabwe's new President Emmerson Mnangagwa sworn in -- BBC
Who is Emmerson Mnangagwa, Zimbabwe's 'Crocodile'? -- Al Jazeera

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 Incoming Leader Mnangagwa Arrives In Harare. Will Be Sworn In As President On Friday

Daily Mail: 'I was poisoned' declares the Croc: Zimbabwe's president-in-waiting says he had to 'act before he was eliminated' as he returns to Harare and gleefully gives his first speech to supporters since Mugabe resigned

* President Designate Emmerson Mnangagwa, 75, gave speech to Zanu PF supporters in Harare on Wednesday
* Mugabe's former deputy said he was poisoned and decided to act rather than 'wait for them to eliminate me'
* He gleefully referred to Mugabe as the 'former president' while promising democracy, peace and jobs
* Mnangagwa is expected to be sworn in as Zimbabwe's interim leader on Friday until elections due for 2018

Zimbabwe's president designate Emmerson Mnangagwa arrived back in Zimbabwe on Wednesday where he delivered a tub-thumping speech to jubilant Zanu PF supporters in the capital Harare.

Mr Mnagagwa used his first public words after arriving back from South Africa to accuse the Mugabe regime of trying to poison him, and said he decided to act rather than 'wait for them to eliminate me.'

He also gleefully referred to Robert Mugabe as the 'former president' to wild applause from the crowd.

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More News On Zimbabwe's Political Crisis

Zimbabwe: What's happening? -- Al Jazeera
Zimbabwe’s incoming leader Mnangagwa returns home to cheers -- AP
Zimbabwe's Mnangagwa to be sworn in as president on Friday -- Reuters
Emmerson Mnangagwa to be sworn in as Zimbabwe's president on Friday -- The Guardian
Zimbabwe crisis: Emmerson Mnangagwa returns to Harare to replace Mugabe -- DW
Mnangagwa to be sworn in as president on Friday -- Al Jazeera
Zimbabwe's Mnangagwa: key dates -- AFP
World reacts to end of Mugabe's era in Zimbabwe -- Al Jazeera
Zimbabwe has been here before. This time its new leader must let it embrace its potential -- Andrew Geoghegan, ABC News Online
Zimbabwe's Emmerson Mnangagwa returns — What's next? -- Chloe Lyneham, DW
Zimbabwe's military is looking after its own interests — not democracy -- Enock C Mudzamiri, ABC News Online
How Mugabe managed to remain in power for 37 years -- Paul Brennan, Al Jazeera
Robert Mugabe's resignation letter in full -- Al Jazeera

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'.

Read more ....

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).

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Mugabe: Social media reaction to Zimbabwe president's speech -- BBC