Robert Mugabe, Zimbabwe’s first post-independence leader, has died aged 95.
He died after battling ill health, his family confirmed to the BBC. Mr Mugabe had been in hospital in Singapore since April.
He was ousted in a military coup in November 2017, ending three decades in power.
He won Zimbabwe’s first election after independence, becoming prime minister in 1980.
He abolished the office in 1987, becoming president instead
Confirming the news by his successor President Mnangagwa shared a tone-deaf tweet, writing: “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.”
Lawyer Fadzayi Mahere tweeted: “Rest In Peace, Robert Mugabe. My response to your passing is complicated. I’m going to write a long piece. However, for now, deepest condolences to his family.”
But as news broke of the tyrant’s death, social media users flocked online to give their views.
One wrote: “Rot in hell, Mugabe.
Another added: “There’s no reason to mourn Mugabe, that d**k head is the reason why Zimbabwean people are suffering.”
And a third tweeted: “I wonder how the initial greetings between Mugabe and Satan will go?”
