The sun sets for Mugabe too
Surreal situation in Zimbabwe, with president finally cornered but anxiety about credentials of leadership to come
The more Zimbabweans reported they were going about their daily business on Wednesday as the army occupied Harare, the more unreal the momentous development of military capture of the state seemed. It was inconceivable that President Robert Mugabe, entrenched in power for a long 37 years, was no longer rigidly and unmovably at the helm of this troubled country. He has been the only president more than one generation of Zimbabweans has known. Zimbabwe commentator Alex Magaisa said the surreal events of the past 24 hours could be described as "the end of an error". Mugabe’s face, name and presence are everywhere. Most recently, Harare’s airport was named after him. He is imprinted on the memories and experiences of Zimbabweans for better but mostly for worse. Zimbabweans are, while worried about what is to come, generally hopeful that change has at least been unlocked. The prospect of another term by Mugabe was untenable. The thought of his wife, Grace, ascending the throne was almost...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.