This archive report was first published on 6 September 2019.
Former Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe, a key figure in the country's liberation and a pan-Africanist, has passed away at the age of 95.
His death was announced by current Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who described Mugabe as an icon of liberation and a dedicated advocate for the emancipation and empowerment of his people.
"It is with the utmost sadness that I announce the passing on of Zimbabwe's founding father and former President, Cde (comrade) Robert Mugabe," President Mnangagwa said in a statement on Twitter.
President Mnangagwa added, “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,”
Mugabe, who had been unwell for a long time, died while undergoing medication at a Singaporean hospital.
He served as President of Zimbabwe from 1980 to 2017, when he was ousted from power in a bloodless military coup. His 37-year reign was marked by a collapsed economy, oppression, and violence.
