President Robert Mugabe Makes First Public Appearance Since Apparent Coup

Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe has made his first public appearance since the apparent military coup.

The 93-year-old leader who was said to be under house arrest, on Friday, surprisingly attended a graduation ceremony at Zimbabwe Open University.

He was, however, without his Education minister who has since been arrested by the military.

Mugabe was dressed in a blue and yellow academic gown and mortarboard hat. He was greeted by ululations from the crowd as he declared the ceremony open and took his seat in a large wooden chair at the front the hall.

Read Also: Ugandan President Museveni Condemns Military Coup Against Mugabe

Meanwhile, in regards to his presidency, leaders of Zimbabwe’s ruling ZANU-PF party are expected to meet later to today to draft a resolution to dismiss President Mugabe at the weekend.

If he refuses to stand down, the ruling party will go ahead and lay grounds for his impeachment next week.

Army vehicles are still patrolling the streets and it is widely believed that Mr. Mugabe will refuse to step down, hence giving room for impeachment proceedings.

The leader of Zimbabwe’s war veterans, Chris Mutsvangwa, said that President Mugabe would not be allowed to resist or remain in power.

He added that the veterans were happy with the military for the action they took.

Victor Matemadanda, Secretary-General of Zimbabwe’s War Veterans Association said the military takeover was for the good of Zimbabwe.

Robert Mugabe’s Wife

Grace Mugabe, who was reportedly being lined up as her husband’s successor, was not in the photos taken at the university.

Read Also: Robert Mugabe Removed As WHO Goodwill Ambassador

There was also no sign of former vice president Emmerson Mnangagwa, who was fired last week.

Robert Mugabe was, however, seen in one photo smiling and shaking hands with the military chief.

Morgan Tsvangirai, a former prime minister and long-time opponent of Mr. Mugabe, said he must resign “in the interest of the people.” He added that “a transitional mechanism” would be needed to ensure stability.