Robert Mugabe, Zimbabwe's founder, dead at 95
Zimbabwe's former president Robert Mugabe has died in a Singapore hospital aged 95.
Zimbabwe's current President, Emmerson Mnangagwa, confirmed Mugabe's death on Twitter on Friday afternoon.
"It is with utmost sadness that I announce the passing of Zimbabwe's founding father and former president, Cde [Comrade] Robert Mugabe," the tweet read.
"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 died in Singapore, where he has often received medical treatment in recent years, a source with direct knowledge of the matter told Reuters.
Last month Mnangagwa said that Mugabe had been in hospital since April . He did not specify the illness, but said Mugabe was making “good progress” and could be discharged soon.
In November 2018, Mnangagwa had said the ex-president could not walk due to old age and ill-health.
An ally of the former strongman, Professor Johnathan Moyo, earlier said on Twitter on Friday afternoon that "a dark cloud has enveloped Zimbabwe and beyond. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away."
Pindula News reported that Mugabe family members had left for Singapore during the week to be by his side.
More to come