The man called “The Crocodile” in Zimbabwean politics, Emmerson Mnangagwa is to be sworn in as President of Zimbabwe after the country’s long serving leader, Robert Mugabe resigned from the position on Tuesday.
Mnangagwa until recently was an ally of Mr. Mugabe but a power struggle between him and wife of his former boss, Grace Mugabe led to his sacking and his decision to subsequently flee the country.
The ruling Zanu PF party which passed a resolution to make Mnangagwa is new president after removing Robert Mugabe has confirmed that its new leader will return to the country on Wednesday to be sworn in as President.
Emmerson Mnanagagwa on Tuesday asked the former President to resign to protect his legacy and refused to return to the country until his personal security is guaranteed.
Mnangagwa said “His Excellency, Cde Robert Gabriel Mugabe has always said that if the people don’t want him he will leave office, now that they have spoken he must now ACCEPT the will of the people and resign.”
Members of Zimbabwe’s parliament on Tuesday begin impeachment process to force Robert Mugabe out of office when the speaker received his letter of resignation which was read out to the MPs.
Mr. Mugabe who has been ruling Zimbabwe since 1980 was charged with letting his wife “usurp constitutional power” and advancing in age making it difficult for him to govern properly.
A letter from Mr Mugabe said the decision to resign was voluntary reading “I Robert Gabriel Mugabe in terms of section 96 of the constitution of Zimbabwe hereby formally tender my resignation… with immediate effect,” said speaker Mudenda, reading the letter.
“My decision to resign is voluntary on my part and arises from my concern for the welfare of the people of Zimbabwe and my desire to ensure a smooth, peaceful and non-violent transfer of power that underpins national security, peace and stability.
“Kindly give public notice of my resignation as soon as possible as required by Section 96 Subsection 1 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe.
“Yours faithfully,
Robert Gabriel Mugabe
President of the Republic of Zimbabwe,”
Mr Mugabe had previously refused to resign after the military takeover, and days of protests from Zimbabweans.
There has been wild jubilation across the country with many hoping for a new direction for Zimbabwe which has been reeling under economic hardship and poverty.
Source: Africafeeds.com
