Former Zimbabwean President Mugabe dies at 95

Robert Mugabe, the former president of Zimbabwe who was ousted from power in a military coup after ruling the African nation for close to four decades, has died.

He had ruled Zimbabwe, a former British colony, since 1980 and was the world's oldest head of state before his dramatic exit two years ago.

The 95-year-old is believed to have died in Singapore where he had often received treatment in recent years.

President of Zimbabwe (@edmnangagwa) September 6, 2019
Current president Emmerson Mnangagwa announced his predecessor's death on Twitter, describing him as an "icon of liberation" whose "contribution to the history of our nation and continent will never be forgotten".

He wrote: "It is with the utmost sadness that I announce the passing on of Zimbabwe's founding father and former President, Cde Robert Mugabe.

"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."

For years, Zimbabweans who saw their ageing leader nod off during events speculated how long he would stay in office, while his wife Grace vowed that he could rule from the grave.