Robert Mugabe’s residence is currently facing a siege, with the Zimbabwean military announcing their control over the nation’s capital. This development suggests that the reign of the world’s oldest head of state might be coming to an end.
At 93 years old, Mugabe holds the title of the oldest serving head of state, closely followed by Queen Elizabeth II of England, who is 91. Should Mugabe’s government collapse, the position would then be inherited by the British monarch.
The news of a potential shift in power towards Queen Elizabeth II emerged earlier today, as a military official made an announcement on Zimbabwean television. The official revealed that the army had taken strategic action against criminal elements, surrounded key government buildings, and secured Mugabe’s personal residence. Shortly after the broadcast, gunshots were reportedly heard coming from Mugabe’s private mansion in north Harare.
This military intervention seems to have put an end to the fierce power struggle between Mugabe’s wife, Grace Mugabe, and the former vice-president, Emmerson Mnangagwa, who was dismissed last week in what seemed to be a move to pave the way for Grace’s ascension to power. Multiple government officials have been taken into custody, all of whom are known allies of Grace Mugabe, who has sought refuge in Namibia.
In response to the news, British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson criticized Mugabe for his previous wrongdoings. Johnson emphasized that Britain has always supported the Zimbabwean people’s right to choose their own future through free and fair elections. He highlighted Mugabe’s oppressive regime, including rigged elections, violence against opponents, illegal land seizures, and economic collapse leading to hyperinflation. Johnson also pointed out that Zimbabweans are now poorer than they were in 1980, relying on assistance from DFID for basic needs.
Approximately 20,000 British citizens are presently residing in Zimbabwe, with no incidents of harm reported among any UK nationals following the city’s takeover by the military. The British Embassy is advising Britons in Zimbabwe, whether visiting, working, or living there, to remain indoors until the “unusual military activity” subsides.
South African President Jacob Zuma’s official statement confirmed that Mugabe remains alive, albeit currently under house arrest. According to Zuma’s spokesperson, President Zuma had a conversation with President Robert Mugabe earlier today, during which Mugabe disclosed his confinement to his residence but assured that he is in good health.
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