This archive report was first published on 19 September 2019.
Raila Congratulates Zimbabweans on Mugabe's Resignation ¶
November 22nd, 2017
National Super Alliance (NASA) leader Raila Odinga has welcomed the resignation of Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe, hailing it as a historic moment for democracy in Africa.
According to a statement by his political adviser Salim Lone, Raila said Mugabe's resignation marked a significant victory for the people of Zimbabwe, who had successfully 'overthrown tyranny and dictatorship' through peaceful means.
"You have succeeded in peacefully overthrowing tyranny and dictatorship and created for yourselves the promise of a prosperous future that only democracy can provide," Raila stated.
He also expressed satisfaction that he was the only African leader to condemn Mugabe's leadership and election rigging in 2008, saying it was a moment of great personal satisfaction and a dream fulfilled.
"In 2008, as Prime Minister of Kenya, I believe I was the only African leader to have condemned Mr Mugabe's power grab through a rigged election and offered support for your democratic future," Raila added.
He congratulated Zimbabweans on their peaceful revolution, saying it would send a powerful message to dictators across the continent and encourage them to move swiftly towards consolidating their gains towards democracy.
"The people of Zimbabwe have sent a powerful message that citizens may get oppressed and seem beaten, but it is only for a moment. In the fullness of time, the citizens have both their say and their way," Raila said.
He also praised Zimbabweans for proving that democracy is the only guarantee for durable stability and peace, expressed in regular free, fair, and credible elections.
President Mugabe resigned on November 21, 2017, after almost four decades in power, amid pressure from the military and widespread protests in the country's capital, Harare.
Former Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa is expected to be sworn in as the new President on November 24, 2017.
