Former Zimbabwe leader Robert Mugabe dies aged 95

Notorious former Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe has died aged 95, it has been confirmed.

The overthrown dictator died in a Singapore hospital after a period of ill health. The tyrant ruled the country with an iron fist for almost 40 years before being removed in a military coup in 2017.

His leadership of the former British colony was marked with bloodshed, persecution of political opponents and vote-rigging on a large scale.

The news was confirmed by current Zimbabwean president Emmerson Mnangagwa, who said Mugabe died surrounded by his family, including wife Grace.

He wrote on Twitter: ‘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.’

Metro UK