2017 Zimbabwean coup d'état Warning: You are not logged in. Your IP address will be publicly visible if you make any edits. If you log in or create an account, your edits will be attributed to your username, along with other benefits.Anti-spam check. Do not fill this in! {{Redirect-distinguish|Zimbabwean coup d'état|2007 Zimbabwean alleged coup attempt}} {{Short description|Military overthrow of President Robert Mugabe}} {{EngvarB|date=May 2023}} {{Use dmy dates|date=November 2017}} {{Infobox military conflict | conflict = 2017 Zimbabwean coup d'état | width = | partof = the [[2016–17 Zimbabwe protests]] | image = A tank in harare during the coup.jpg | caption = A [[Zimbabwe Defence Forces]] APC in downtown [[Harare]] during the coup | image_size = 360px | date = {{start and end dates|2017|11|14|2017|11|21|df=yes}} ({{Age in years, months, weeks and days|month1=11|day1=14|year1=2017|month2=11|day2=21|year2=2017}}) | place = [[Harare]], Zimbabwe | coordinates = | map_type = | map_relief = | latitude = | longitude = | map_size = large | map_marksize = | map_caption = | map_label = | territory = | result = Coup succeeded *[[Robert Mugabe]] resigns from the office of [[President of Zimbabwe]] after impeachment proceedings are initiated *[[Emmerson Mnangagwa]] becomes the 3rd President of Zimbabwe | status = | combatants_header = | combatant1 = {{flagicon image|Flag of ZANU-PF.svg}} [[Lacoste (political faction)|Team Lacoste]] | combatant2 = {{flagicon image|Flag of ZANU-PF.svg}} [[Generation 40]] | combatant3 = <!-- Note: in the commander sections, the titles of the participants are their titles as of the start of the coup and should not be changed in light of later events --> | commander1 = '''[[Emmerson Mnangagwa]]'''<br />([[Vice-President of Zimbabwe|Vice-President]]) * [[Constantino Chiwenga]] * [[Philip Valerio Sibanda]] * [[Perrance Shiri]] * [[Christopher Mutsvangwa]] * [[Sibusiso Moyo]] | commander2 = '''[[Robert Mugabe]]'''<br />([[President of Zimbabwe|President]]) * [[Grace Mugabe]] * [[Phelekezela Mphoko]] * [[Jonathan Moyo]] * [[Saviour Kasukuwere]] * [[Ignatius Chombo]] * [[Patrick Zhuwao]] * [[Walter Mzembi]] | units2 = | units3 = | strength1 = | strength2 = | strength3 = | casualties1 = | casualties2 = | casualties3 = | notes = | campaignbox = }} In November 2017, Zimbabwean president [[Robert Mugabe]] was removed as president and party leader of [[ZANU–PF]] and was replaced by [[Emmerson Mnangagwa]]. On the evening of 14 November 2017, elements of the [[Zimbabwe Defence Forces]] (ZDF) gathered around [[Harare]], the capital of [[Zimbabwe]], and seized control of the [[Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation]] and key areas of the city. The next day, the ZDF issued a statement saying that it was not a coup d'état and that President Mugabe was safe, although the situation would return to normal only after the ZDF had dealt with the "criminals" around Mugabe responsible for the [[Economy of Zimbabwe|socio-economic problems of Zimbabwe]].<ref name=":4" /> [[Jacob Zuma]], then-[[President of South Africa]], phoned Mugabe and was told that Mugabe was under [[house arrest]] but otherwise "fine".<ref name=":9" /> The uprising took place amid tensions in the ruling [[ZANU–PF]] party between former First Vice-President [[Emmerson Mnangagwa]] (who was backed by the ZDF) and [[First Lady of Zimbabwe|First Lady]] [[Grace Mugabe]] (who was backed by the younger [[Generation 40|G40]] faction) over who would succeed the 93-year-old President Mugabe. A week after Mnangagwa was fired and forced to flee the country, and a day before troops moved into Harare, Zimbabwe Defence Forces chief [[Constantino Chiwenga]] issued a statement that purges of senior ZANU–PF officials like Mnangagwa had to stop.<ref name=":7" /> On 19 November, ZANU-PF removed Mugabe as party leader, replacing him with Mnangagwa, and issued a deadline of 20 November for Mugabe to resign the presidency or face impeachment. Mugabe did not resign, so on 21 November a joint session of Parliament met for his impeachment. After the session convened, Mugabe sent a letter to Zimbabwe's Parliament resigning the presidency.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-42071488|title=Zimbabwe's President Mugabe resigns|date=21 November 2017|publisher=BBC|access-date=21 November 2017|archive-date=23 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200623213751/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-42071488|url-status=live}}</ref> Second Vice-President [[Phelekezela Mphoko]] became the Acting President.<ref name="herald.co.zw">{{cite web|url=http://www.herald.co.zw/experts-clear-the-air-on-succession/|title=Experts clear the air on succession – The Herald|website=Herald.co.zw|access-date=22 November 2017|archive-date=23 November 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20171123053949/http://www.herald.co.zw/experts-clear-the-air-on-succession/|url-status=live}}</ref> Mnangagwa was sworn in as president on 24 November 2017.<ref name=RTE2017-11-24a>{{cite web|url=https://www.rte.ie/news/world/2017/1124/922496-zimbabwe/|title=Zimbabwe's Mnangagwa sworn in as president|date=24 November 2017|access-date=24 November 2017|publisher=[[Raidió Teilifís Éireann]]|quote=Zimbabwe's Emmerson Mnangagwa has been sworn in as the country's president, bringing the final curtain down on the 37-year rule of Robert Mugabe.|archive-date=24 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171124092643/https://www.rte.ie/news/world/2017/1124/922496-zimbabwe/|url-status=live}}</ref> ==Background== ===Early October=== [[File:Grace Mugabe with Robert Mugabe 2013-08-04 11-53.jpeg|thumb|right|upright=1.13|[[Robert Mugabe]] and [[Grace Mugabe]] in 2013]] On the second week of October 2017, tensions between Vice-President [[Emmerson Mnangagwa]] and [[Grace Mugabe]], two leading figures to replace the 93-year-old [[Robert Mugabe]] as [[President of Zimbabwe]], were prominently displayed in the public sphere.<ref name=":2">{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-41530924|title=Grace Mugabe warns of coup plot|date=6 October 2017|work=[[BBC News]]|access-date=14 November 2017|others=Additional political analysis by Shingai Nyoka of BBC News Harare|language=en-GB|archive-date=15 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115143419/http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-41530924|url-status=live}}</ref> Mnangagwa, a protégé of Mugabe's who had been his ally since the [[Rhodesian Bush War|Zimbabwe War of Independence]] in the 1960s,<ref name=":1" /> said that doctors had confirmed that he had been poisoned during an August 2017 political rally led by the president and had to be airlifted to a hospital in South Africa for treatment.<ref name=":2" /> He also pledged his loyalty to the [[ZANU–PF]] party and President Mugabe and said that the story spread by his supporters that Grace Mugabe had ordered the poisoning via a dairy farm she controlled was untrue.<ref name=":2" /> Grace Mugabe denied the poisoning claims as ridiculous and rhetorically asked: "Who is Mnangagwa, who is he?"<ref name=":2" /> [[Phelekezela Mphoko]], Zimbabwe's other vice-president, publicly criticised Mnangagwa, saying that his comments about the August incident were part of an attempt to destabilise the country and undermine the authority of the president, since doctors had actually concluded that stale food was to blame.<ref name=":2" /> ===4 October=== During a planned speech in Harare, Grace Mugabe went off-script to attack Mnangagwa, saying that her supporters were constantly receiving threats that if Mnangagwa did not succeed Mugabe, they would be assassinated and that the faction backing Mnangagwa was plotting a coup d'état.<ref name=":2" /> At a rally, President Mugabe publicly rebuked the and Mnangagwa for the first time. At the same rally, Grace Mugabe called him a "coup plotter" and a "coward".<ref name=":1">{{Cite news|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-11-07/robert-mugabe-sacks-vp-seen-as-top-succession-candidate/9125040|title=Mugabe fires 'disloyal, deceitful' vice president, removing succession favourite|date=6 November 2017|work=[[ABC News (Australia)|ABC News]]|access-date=14 November 2017|agency=[[Reuters]]|language=en-AU|archive-date=15 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115105634/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-11-07/robert-mugabe-sacks-vp-seen-as-top-succession-candidate/9125040|url-status=live}}</ref> The president fired Mnangagwa on 6 November.<ref name=":1" /> A statement from Information Minister [[Simon Khaya-Moyo]] said that Mnangagwa had "consistently and persistently exhibited traits of disloyalty, disrespect, deceitfulness and unreliability".<ref name=":1" /> Mnangagwa's dismissal essentially left Grace Mugabe, supported by her [[Generation 40]] (G40) faction of younger ZANU–PF officials, as the only major contender to succeed Robert Mugabe.<ref name=":4" /><ref name=":7" /> Mnangagwa, one of Mugabe's last political allies who had stayed with him since independence in 1980, had the support of several generals in the Zimbabwean army, who had publicly stated that only a veteran of the war for independence – which would rule out Grace Mugabe – should rule the country.<ref name=":1" /> Although Mugabe had depended on support from the military to maintain his rule, in the last few years he had undertaken a systematic replacement of old veterans from the war of independence in important ZANU–PF party positions with younger officials who did not fight in the war.<ref name=":4" /> This move was seen as risky because Grace Mugabe was a [[Grace Mugabe#Controversies|divisive figure in Zimbabwe]] and did not have much support from important ZANU–PF officials from the liberation war era or in the South African region.<ref name=":10">{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/15/mugabe-family-military-takes-control-zimbabwe-mnangagwa|title=Robert Mugabe in detention after military takes control of Zimbabwe|last=Burke|first=Jason|date=15 November 2017|work=[[The Guardian]]|access-date=15 November 2017|issn=0261-3077|archive-date=15 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115103403/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/15/mugabe-family-military-takes-control-zimbabwe-mnangagwa|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":6">{{Cite news|url=http://www.cnn.com/2017/11/14/africa/zimbabwe-military-chief-treasonable-conduct/index.html|title=Zimbabwe army denies military takeover in live address on state TV|last1=McKenzie|first1=David|date=15 November 2017|publisher=[[CNN]]|access-date=15 November 2017|last2=Swails|first2=Brent|last3=Berlinger|first3=Joshua|archive-date=15 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115042820/http://www.cnn.com/2017/11/14/africa/zimbabwe-military-chief-treasonable-conduct/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> === 8–12 November === On 8 November 2017, Mnangagwa fled to Mozambique and then South Africa to escape "incessant threats" against his family.<ref name="nytimes1119"/><ref name="bloomberg_flees">{{cite news|last1=Kumbuka|first1=Desmond|last2=Marawanyika|first2=Godfrey|last3=Latham|first3=Brian|title=Zimbabwe's Ousted Vice President Flees After Death Threats|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-11-08/mugabe-guts-zimbabwe-security-state-with-deputy-s-dismissal|access-date=18 November 2017|publisher=Bloomberg L.P.|date=8 November 2017|archive-date=10 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171110005428/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-11-08/mugabe-guts-zimbabwe-security-state-with-deputy-s-dismissal|url-status=live}}</ref> Mnangagwa issued a statement saying that he did not plan to harm Mugabe.<ref name="bloomberg_flees"/> He told Mugabe, "You and your cohorts will instead leave ZANU–PF by the will of the people and this we will do in the coming few weeks."<ref name="bloomberg_flees"/> Mnangagwa vowed to return and called for members of ZANU–PF to abandon the president.<ref name=":7">{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/13/zimbabwe-army-chief-warns-military-could-step-in-over-party-purge|title=Zimbabwe army chief warns military could 'step in' over party purge|date=13 November 2017|work=[[The Guardian]]|access-date=15 November 2017|agency=[[Agence France-Presse]]|issn=0261-3077|archive-date=9 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190309195445/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/13/zimbabwe-army-chief-warns-military-could-step-in-over-party-purge|url-status=live}}</ref> After his exile, more than a hundred of Mnangagwa's alleged senior supporters were targeted for disciplinary sanctions by backers of Grace Mugabe.<ref name=":3">{{Cite news|url=http://www.foxnews.com/world/2017/11/14/us-tells-citizens-in-zimbabwe-to-shelter-in-place-as-troops-seen-in-capital.html|title=US tells citizens in Zimbabwe to shelter in place as troops seen in capital|date=14 November 2017|publisher=[[Fox News]]|access-date=15 November 2017|agency=[[Reuters]]|language=en-US|archive-date=15 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115025417/http://www.foxnews.com/world/2017/11/14/us-tells-citizens-in-zimbabwe-to-shelter-in-place-as-troops-seen-in-capital.html|url-status=live}}</ref> That same day, Christopher Mutsvangwa also left for South Africa, where he warned South African intelligence that a military intervention was about to take place in Zimbabwe. Meanwhile, Zimbabwean army chief General [[Constantino Chiwenga]] was on an official visit to China, where he met generals [[Chang Wanquan]] and [[Li Zuocheng]]. While in China, General Chiwenga was advised by the military intelligence wing that Mugabe had ordered his arrest upon his return to Zimbabwe on 12 November 2017. Plans had already been put in place through the ZRP Support Unit (A paramilitary wing of the police). Soldiers loyal to Chiwenga, disguised as baggage handlers, overpowered the police at the airport and cleared the way for his arrival.<ref>{{Cite web| url=https://news.pindula.co.zw/2017/11/17/zrp-support-unit-attempted-to-arrest-general-chiwenga-when-he-returned-from-china/| title=ZRP Support Unit Attempted to Arrest General Chiwenga when He Returned from China ⋆ Pindula News| date=17 November 2017| access-date=10 January 2019| archive-date=13 January 2019| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190113084123/https://news.pindula.co.zw/2017/11/17/zrp-support-unit-attempted-to-arrest-general-chiwenga-when-he-returned-from-china/| url-status=live}}</ref> ===13 November=== Chiwenga called a press conference at the military headquarters where he read a statement saying that the military would intervene if their historical political allies continued to be targeted.<ref name=":4" /><ref name=":7" /> He called recent events "treacherous shenanigans" and said that the military "will not hesitate to step in" if that was necessary to protect the Zimbabwean revolution.<ref name=":4" /> Chiwenga urged people to attend the December 2017 ZANU–PF party congress to exercise their democratic rights and that the party had been infiltrated by counter-revolutionaries. He also said that the infighting and purges in ZANU–PF had led to chaos and "no meaningful development in the country for the past five years".<ref name=":7" /> The statement was made with ninety high-ranking officers from important units of the [[Zimbabwe National Army]] present to create an image of army unity. The statement was originally broadcast on [[Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation]], the state broadcaster, but pulled off the air, though there was no initial official government response.<ref name=":4" /> == Timeline of events == ===Tuesday, 14 November=== Military armoured vehicles were spotted on roadways around [[Harare]], the capital of Zimbabwe,<ref name=":0" /> and drove in convoys through the city.<ref name=":4" /> The same day, [[Kudzanayi Chipanga]], the leader of the ruling ZANU–PF party's youth league, which is aligned with Grace Mugabe,<ref name=":6" /> said that the Youth League was "ready to die" to try to prevent the army from deposing Mugabe and choosing a new leader,<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/11/zimbabwe-zanu-pf-youth-wing-ready-die-mugabe-171114133805737.html|title=Zimbabwe: ZANU–PF youth wing 'ready to die' for Mugabe|last=Mohamed|first=Hamza|date=14 November 2017|publisher=[[Al Jazeera Media Network|Al Jazeera]]|access-date=15 November 2017|archive-date=14 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171114213037/http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/11/zimbabwe-zanu-pf-youth-wing-ready-die-mugabe-171114133805737.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and that the generals should retire if they were unsatisfied with Mugabe's rule and wanted to become politicians.<ref name=":8">{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/14/world/africa/zimbabwe-mugabe-mnangagwa-chiwenga.html|title=Zimbabwe's Military, in Apparent Takeover, Says It Has Custody of Mugabe|last1=Moyo|first1=Jeffrey|date=14 November 2017|work=[[The New York Times]]|access-date=15 November 2017|last2=Onishi|first2=Norimitsu|issn=0362-4331|archive-date=24 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171224045734/https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/14/world/africa/zimbabwe-mugabe-mnangagwa-chiwenga.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Mugabe attended a weekly meeting of [[Cabinet of Zimbabwe|the Zimbabwe cabinet]] on Tuesday afternoon. In the early evening after the cabinet meeting, Khaya-Moyo spoke for ZANU–PF and accused Chiwenga of treason and inciting insurrection.<ref name=":4" /><ref name=":5">{{Cite news|url=https://sg.news.yahoo.com/tank-convoy-seen-outside-zimbabwe-capital-172532141.html|title=Military takes to streets in Zimbabwe but denies coup|last=Mashavave|first=Reagan|date=14 November 2017|work=[[Yahoo News]]|access-date=15 November 2017|agency=[[Agence France-Presse]]|language=en-SG|archive-date=14 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171114200223/https://sg.news.yahoo.com/tank-convoy-seen-outside-zimbabwe-capital-172532141.html|url-status=live}}</ref> That evening, soldiers took over the Harare offices of the state broadcaster, the [[Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation]] (ZBC), manhandling some of its employees. Workers at the ZBC were later told that they did not have to worry and that the troops were protecting the station.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-41992351|title=Zimbabwe crisis: Army takes over, says Mugabe is safe|date=15 November 2017|work=[[BBC News]]|access-date=15 November 2017|language=en-GB|archive-date=15 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115014340/http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-41992351|url-status=live}}</ref> According to the military, the reason for its actions was that the ZBC had been ordered not to broadcast the military's statement on Monday.<ref name=":4" /> Around 10:30 pm, Albert Ngulube, director of security of the Zimbabwean [[Central Intelligence Organisation]], was arrested by soldiers after leaving Mugabe's home.<ref name="ST02">{{Cite news|title=The night the tanks rumbled in|last1=wa Afrika|first1=Mzilikazi|last2=Ndlovu|first2=Ray|date=19 November 2017|work=The Sunday Times|location=South Africa|publisher=Times Media Group}}</ref>{{rp|6}} He was beaten up at the [[Presidential Guard (Zimbabwe)|Presidential Guard]] headquarters and was released on Friday, 17 November for medical treatment at a private hospital in the capital.<ref name=ST02/>{{rp|6}} ===Wednesday, 15 November=== The army then proceeded to raid the homes of twenty other people.<ref name=ST02/>{{rp|6}} Minister of Higher Education [[Jonathan Moyo]] was tipped off by a member of the army on early Wednesday morning and fled to the house of [[Saviour Kasukuwere]], Minister of Local Government, and his family.<ref name=ST02/>{{rp|6}} That home was then attacked by the army around 2.30 am with gunfire before a ceasefire allowed the two families to escape to Mugabe's home.<ref name=ST02/>{{rp|6}} The army also raided the home of Finance Minister [[Ignatius Chombo]], but they came under fire from his private Israeli security guards.<ref name=ST02/>{{rp|6}} One member of the guard was killed.<ref name=ST02/>{{rp|6}} Chombo was detained and assaulted by the troops; US$10 million in cash was found in the house.<ref name=ST02/>{{rp|6}} Police duties had been restricted and Police Commissioner [[Augustine Chihuri]] was missing, presumed arrested.<ref name=ST02/>{{rp|6}} At 5 am [[Major General]] [[Sibusiso Moyo]], the army chief of staff and an ally of Chiwenga's, spoke on behalf of the [[Zimbabwe Defence Forces]] in a broadcast on ZBC.<ref name=":6" /><ref name=":8" /><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KClcw5KPBqE|title=Mugabe is 'safe and sound' Zimbabwe's army says|date=15 November 2017|work=[[The Guardian]]|access-date=15 November 2017|archive-date=19 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201119140642/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KClcw5KPBqE|url-status=live}}</ref> Moyo asserted that it was not a military takeover and that President Mugabe was safe. However, the statement also said that the military was "targeting criminals" around Mugabe responsible for the country's socio-economic problems, and that after they achieved their aims, the situation would "return to normalcy".<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/15/the-situation-has-moved-to-another-level-zimbabwe-army-statement-in-full|title='The situation has moved to another level': Zimbabwe army statement in full|last=Guardian staff|date=15 November 2017|work=[[The Guardian]]|access-date=15 November 2017|issn=0261-3077|archive-date=15 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115062322/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/15/the-situation-has-moved-to-another-level-zimbabwe-army-statement-in-full|url-status=live}}</ref> Moyo announced that all military leave was cancelled, soldiers should return to their [[barracks]], security forces should "cooperate for the good of our country", and that "any provocation will be met with an appropriate response".<ref name=":4">{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/14/tensions-rise-in-zimbabwe-as-military-drives-through-outskirts-of-capital|title=Military urges calm in Zimbabwe after it seizes key sites in capital|last=Burke|first=Jason|date=15 November 2017|work=[[The Guardian]]|access-date=15 November 2017|issn=0261-3077|archive-date=18 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190818000322/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/14/tensions-rise-in-zimbabwe-as-military-drives-through-outskirts-of-capital|url-status=live}}</ref> Moyo also said that the independence of the [[judiciary of Zimbabwe]] was guaranteed and that citizens should remain calm and avoid unnecessary movement.<ref name=":0" /> After the speech, the military apprehended [[Ignatius Chombo]], the Zimbabwean [[Ministry of Finance (Zimbabwe)|finance minister]] and a leader of G40, the pro-Grace Mugabe faction of ZANU–PF.<ref name=":4" /> According to South Africa's ''[[The Times (South Africa)|The Times]]'', other cabinet ministers seized who were leaders in G40 included Jonathan Moyo and Saviour Kasukuwere.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/africa/2017-11-15-zimbabwe-ministers-arrested/|title=Zimbabwe ministers arrested|last=Ndlovu|first=Ray|date=15 November 2017|work=[[The Times (South Africa)|The Times]]|access-date=15 November 2017|language=en-SA|archive-date=15 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115140437/https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/africa/2017-11-15-zimbabwe-ministers-arrested/|url-status=live}}</ref> Also early that morning, gunfire and [[artillery]] were heard in the northern suburbs of Harare, where many government officials, including the president, had their residences.<ref name=":0" /> According to [[Agence France-Presse]], a witness heard sustained gunfire near Mugabe's private home in the suburb of [[Borrowdale, Harare|Borrowdale]].<ref name=":4" /><ref name=":5" /> [[Reuters]] reported an explosion close to the main campus of the [[University of Zimbabwe]].<ref name=":4" /> Soldiers also blocked access to the [[Parliament of Zimbabwe]], government buildings, courthouses, and the president's official residence in Harare.<ref name=":4" /> It was reported that two journalists were assaulted by the military and hospitalised.<ref name="news24journo">{{Cite web |url=https://www.news24.com/Africa/Zimbabwe/mugabe-under-heavy-guard-as-situation-deteriorates-in-zim-20171115 |title=Mugabe under 'heavy guard' as situation deteriorates in Zim |last=Chikowore |first=Frank |date=15 November 2017 |website=News24 |access-date=15 November 2017 |archive-date=15 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115112730/https://www.news24.com/Africa/Zimbabwe/mugabe-under-heavy-guard-as-situation-deteriorates-in-zim-20171115 |url-status=live }}</ref> The military announced a press conference for Wednesday morning, where it was expected that the responsible officers would present a deal with President Mugabe that settled his fate and that of his allies. However, the conference was delayed and then cancelled outright, possibly because of a breakdown in negotiations between Mugabe and the military.<ref name=":11" /> For most of Wednesday morning, state-controlled television and radio stations simply rebroadcast Moyo's statement without further news updates, and played patriotic songs from the 1980s about independence alongside normal programming. State-owned newspaper ''[[The Herald (Zimbabwe)|The Herald]]'' ran headlines downplaying the military's actions and its website ran a live blog under the headline "Live and developing: No Military Takeover in Zim".<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-42001242|title=Zimbabwe media slow to cover takeover|last=BBC Monitoring|date=15 November 2017|work=[[BBC News]]|access-date=15 November 2017|language=en-GB|archive-date=16 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171116071751/http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-42001242|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.herald.co.zw/latest-developing-no-military-takeover-in-zim/|title=LIVE: No Military Takeover in Zimbabwe|last=Machivenyika|first=Farirai|date=15 November 2017|work=[[The Herald (Zimbabwe)|The Herald]]|publisher=herald.co.zw|access-date=15 November 2017|archive-date=15 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115180410/http://www.herald.co.zw/latest-developing-no-military-takeover-in-zim/|url-status=live}}</ref> By Wednesday afternoon, the roadblocks around key government buildings in Harare had been removed, armoured vehicles were off the streets, and there was no longer extra security in the Borrowdale suburb, where most senior officials had their private homes. Although there was less overall traffic in the city, ordinary activities like school, administrative offices, and businesses returned to normal. Outside Harare, including [[Bulawayo]], the country's second-largest city, Zimbabweans experienced little to no added military presence.<ref name=":11">{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/15/harare-wakes-up-to-new-era-zimbabwe-coup-robert-mugabe|title='Like a dream': Harare wakes up to new era after a very low-key coup|date=15 November 2017|work=[[The Guardian]]|access-date=15 November 2017|issn=0261-3077|archive-date=15 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115202020/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/15/harare-wakes-up-to-new-era-zimbabwe-coup-robert-mugabe|url-status=live}}</ref> The same day, ZBC broadcast an apology from ZANU–PF youth wing leader Kudzai Chipanga to General Chiwenga, whom he had criticised the day before. Chipanga said that he made his statement voluntarily and that he and other members of the youth league "are still young and make mistakes".<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-zimbabwe-politics-youth/youth-leader-of-zimbabwes-ruling-party-apologizes-to-military-on-state-tv-idUSKBN1DF337|title=Youth leader of Zimbabwe's ruling party apologizes to military on state TV|date=15 November 2017|work=[[Reuters]]|access-date=16 November 2017|archive-date=16 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171116014645/http://www.reuters.com/article/us-zimbabwe-politics-youth/youth-leader-of-zimbabwes-ruling-party-apologizes-to-military-on-state-tv-idUSKBN1DF337|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-42006777|title=Zimbabwe awaits next steps after takeover|date=16 November 2017|work=[[BBC News]]|access-date=16 November 2017|language=en-GB|archive-date=16 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171116093812/http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-42006777|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.zbc.co.zw/2017/11/15/cde-chipanga-apologises-to-zdf/|title=Cde Chipanga apologises to ZDF Commander|date=15 November 2017|website=[[Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation]]|url-status=dead|access-date=16 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171116100833/http://www.zbc.co.zw/2017/11/15/cde-chipanga-apologises-to-zdf/|archive-date=16 November 2017|df=dmy-all}}</ref> [[File:Morgan Tsvangirai Oslo 2009 A.jpg|thumb|upright=0.68|[[Morgan Tsvangirai]]]] [[Morgan Tsvangirai]], the former prime minister and leader of the main opposition party [[Movement for Democratic Change – Tsvangirai]], who had won 42% of the popular vote against Mugabe's 56.2% in the [[Zimbabwean presidential election, 2002|2002 presidential election]], returned from receiving cancer treatments abroad.<ref name=":13">{{Cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/11/16/zimbabwes-robert-mugabe-wife-grace-insisting-finishes-term-priest/|title=Zimbabwe coup: Robert Mugabe and wife Grace 'insisting he finishes his term', as priest steps in to mediate|date=16 November 2017|work=[[The Daily Telegraph]]|access-date=16 November 2017|issn=0307-1235|archive-date=16 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171116122822/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/11/16/zimbabwes-robert-mugabe-wife-grace-insisting-finishes-term-priest/|url-status=live}}</ref> Soon after his return to the country, Tsvangirai called for Mugabe to step down.<ref name=":14">{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-42020416|title=Mugabe 'resisting calls to stand down'|date=16 November 2017|work=[[BBC News]]|access-date=16 November 2017|language=en-GB|archive-date=17 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171117005320/http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-42020416|url-status=live}}</ref> ===Thursday, 16 November=== ZANU–PF MP and government minister [[Paul Chimedza]] was arrested at an army roadblock in [[Bubi District|Bubi]] while attempting to flee to South Africa.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newsday.co.zw/2017/11/breaking-masvingo-minister-chimedza-arrested/|title=Breaking: Masvingo minister Chimedza arrested|date=16 November 2017|work=NewsDay Zimbabwe|access-date=16 November 2017|language=en-US|archive-date=19 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201119140644/https://www.newsday.co.zw/2017/11/breaking-masvingo-minister-chimedza-arrested/|url-status=live}}</ref> In Harare, armoured vehicles remained at key locations.<ref name=":13" /> ===Friday, 17 November=== Mugabe presided at a graduation ceremony at [[Zimbabwe Open University]].<ref name="McKenzie">{{Cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2017/11/17/africa/zimbabwe-unrest/index.html|title=Zimbabwe's Mugabe emerges from house arrest in political uncertainty|last1=McKenzie|first1=David|date=17 November 2017|publisher=CNN|access-date=17 November 2017|last2=McKirdy|first2=Euan|last3=Dewan|first3=Angela|archive-date=17 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171117110043/http://edition.cnn.com/2017/11/17/africa/zimbabwe-unrest/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> ===Saturday, 18 November=== [[File:Citizens In the Streets of Harare, Zimbabwe, November 19, 2017.jpg|thumb|Citizens in the streets of Harare, 19 November 2017]] There were well-attended and exuberant but peaceful public demonstrations in Harare and in all major towns in the country, supporting the actions of the army and celebrating the apparent end of Mugabe's presidency. Demonstrators also massed outside his office calling on him to quit.<ref>{{cite news|title=Zimbabwe latest: Thousands celebrate end of Mugabe era|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-42035981|publisher=BBC|date=18 November 2017|access-date=21 July 2018|archive-date=26 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180726215423/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-42035981|url-status=live}}</ref> Protesters booed and jeered a motorcade that left Mugabe's residence, although a security source stated that Mugabe was not travelling.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.reuters.com/article/us-zimbabwe-politics-motorcade-mugabe/zimbabwes-mugabe-not-in-motorcade-that-left-his-residence-source-idUSKBN1DI0MS |title= Zimbabwe's Mugabe not in motorcade that left his residence: source |work= Reuters |date= 18 November 2017 |access-date= 18 November 2017 |archive-date= 18 November 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20171118223202/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-zimbabwe-politics-motorcade-mugabe/zimbabwes-mugabe-not-in-motorcade-that-left-his-residence-source-idUSKBN1DI0MS |url-status= live }}</ref> ===Sunday, 19 November === Mugabe was sacked by his party, and his wife and 20 of her associates were expelled as party members. However, in a speech delivered in Harare and broadcast on state television around the country, Mugabe ignored the party's actions and the political pressure around him, declining to resign and saying he would preside over the upcoming party conference.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/zimbabwes-ruling-party-dismisses-mugabe-as-its-leader-in-another-blow-to-his-presidency/2017/11/19/6a0d52d8-ccb1-11e7-b506-8a10ed11ecf5_story.html|title=Mugabe defies all expectations and declines to resign as Zimbabwe's president|last=Sieff|first=Kevin|date=19 November 2017|newspaper=The Washington Post|access-date=19 November 2017|language=en-US|issn=0190-8286|archive-date=19 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171119141452/https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/zimbabwes-ruling-party-dismisses-mugabe-as-its-leader-in-another-blow-to-his-presidency/2017/11/19/6a0d52d8-ccb1-11e7-b506-8a10ed11ecf5_story.html|url-status=live}}</ref> ZANU-PF issued Mugabe a deadline of noon on 20 November to resign or face impeachment.<ref name="nytimes1119">{{cite web | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/19/world/africa/zimbabwe-robert-mugabe.html | title=Robert Mugabe, in Speech to Zimbabwe, Refuses to Say if He Will Resign | work=The New York Times | date=19 November 2017 | access-date=20 November 2017 | archive-date=19 November 2017 | archive-url=https://archive.today/20171119222140/https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/19/world/africa/zimbabwe-robert-mugabe.html | url-status=live }}</ref> ===Monday, 20 November=== Mugabe ignored the noon deadline for his resignation. [[Paul Mangwana]], ZANU–PF's deputy secretary for legal affairs, said that impeachment could be set in motion as early as the next day.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/11/20/zimbabwes-robert-mugabe-has-drafted-resignation-letter-immunity/|title=Robert Mugabe to face impeachment by Wednesday as 'source of instability'|first1=Roland|last1=Oliphant|first2=Peta|last2=Thornycroft|date=20 November 2017|newspaper=The Telegraph|access-date=20 November 2017|archive-date=20 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171120102334/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/11/20/zimbabwes-robert-mugabe-has-drafted-resignation-letter-immunity/|url-status=live}}</ref> Mugabe would be impeached on the basis that he "allowed his wife to usurp constitutional power".<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-42055726|title=Mugabe 'let wife Grace usurp power'|date=20 November 2017|work=BBC News|access-date=20 November 2017|language=en-GB|archive-date=20 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171120165250/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-42055726|url-status=live}}</ref> Mangwana announced that party members had "unanimously" agreed to remove Mugabe from office and would work with the opposition MDC party to remove Mugabe in a two-day period.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/newswires/news/world/latest-zimbabwe-military-address-nation-shortly-article-1.3645653|title=The Latest: Zimbabwe army says Mugabe working on 'solution'|website=Daily News|location=New York|access-date=20 November 2017}}</ref> Mangwana also stated that a committee would be set up on 21 November and that the vote for impeachment would occur on 22 November.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-11-21/zimbabwe-impeachment-motion-against-president-robert-mugabe/9172364|title=Zimbabwe's ZANU–PF party sets ball rolling on Mugabe impeachment|date=21 November 2017|publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation|access-date=21 November 2017|archive-date=21 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171121035557/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-11-21/zimbabwe-impeachment-motion-against-president-robert-mugabe/9172364|url-status=live}}</ref> Chiwenga announced in a televised address that Mnangagwa would soon return to Zimbabwe and hold talks with Mugabe, with whom he had now been in contact, and that the military coup, dubbed "Operation Restore Legacy", was progressing well.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-zimbabwe-politics-chiwenga/zimbabwes-mugabe-in-talks-with-ousted-vice-president-army-chief-idUKKBN1DK290?il=0|title=Zimbabwe's Mugabe in talks with ousted vice president – army chief|work=Reuters|access-date=20 November 2017|date=20 November 2017|archive-date=19 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201119140601/https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-zimbabwe-politics-chiwenga/zimbabwes-mugabe-in-talks-with-ousted-vice-president-army-chief-idUKKBN1DK290?il=0|url-status=live}}</ref> British news agency [[Reuters]] reported that impeachment proceedings would proceed after the ruling ZANU–PF party completed the draft for a motion of impeachment.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-zimbabwe-politics/zimbabwes-mugabe-faces-impeachment-after-military-takeover-idUSKBN1DK2O0|title=Zimbabwe's Mugabe resigns, ending four decades of rule|date=21 November 2017|website=Reuters.com|access-date=21 November 2017|archive-date=20 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171120233337/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-zimbabwe-politics/zimbabwes-mugabe-faces-impeachment-after-military-takeover-idUSKBN1DK2O0|url-status=live}}</ref> A copy of the draft, which also included a motion for a no-confidence vote, was obtained by British newspaper ''[[The Daily Telegraph]]''.<ref name="auto1">{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/11/20/zimbabwes-robert-mugabe-has-drafted-resignation-letter-immunity/|title=Robert Mugabe to face impeachment by Wednesday as 'source of instability'|first1=Roland|last1=Oliphant|first2=Peta|last2=Thornycroft|date=20 November 2017|access-date=21 November 2017|newspaper=The Telegraph|archive-date=20 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171120202628/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/11/20/zimbabwes-robert-mugabe-has-drafted-resignation-letter-immunity/|url-status=live}}</ref> Of ZANU–PF's 250 lawmakers, all but 20 at a caucus meeting endorsed the impeachment motion, according to party chairman [[Simon Khaya-Moyo]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Dixon|first=Robyn|author-link=Robyn Dixon (journalist)|date=20 November 2017|title=Zimbabwe's Mugabe may face impeachment after failing to meet resignation deadline|url=https://www.latimes.com/world/africa/la-fg-zimbabwe-deadline-resign-20171120-story.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171120222630/http://www.latimes.com/world/africa/la-fg-zimbabwe-deadline-resign-20171120-story.html|archive-date=20 November 2017|access-date=21 November 2017|website=[[Los Angeles Times]]|location=Johannesburg}}</ref> Tsvangirai called for an all-stakeholders meeting to chart the country's future and an internationally supervised process for the forthcoming elections. He said an all-inclusive process to take the country to legitimacy was the only way forward.<ref>{{cite news |url= https://news.pindula.co.zw/2017/11/20/morgan-tsvangirai-calls-internationally-supervised-process-for-elections/ |title= Morgan Tsvangirai Calls For Internationally-Supervised Process For The Forthcoming Elections |newspaper= Pindula News |date= 2017-11-20 |access-date= 2017-11-24 |archive-date= 1 December 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20171201030740/https://news.pindula.co.zw/2017/11/20/morgan-tsvangirai-calls-internationally-supervised-process-for-elections/ |url-status= live |author1= Maveriq }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.reuters.com/article/us-zimbabwe-politics-opposition/zimbabwe-opposition-wants-inclusive-political-process-after-military-intervention-idUSKBN1DK16W |title= Zimbabwe opposition wants inclusive political process after military intervention |work= [[Reuters]] |date= 20 November 2017 |access-date= 2017-11-24 |archive-date= 20 November 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20171120124302/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-zimbabwe-politics-opposition/zimbabwe-opposition-wants-inclusive-political-process-after-military-intervention-idUSKBN1DK16W |url-status= live }}</ref> ===Tuesday, 21 November=== In a sitting of the [[House of Assembly (Zimbabwe)|House of Assembly]], Sen. [[Monica Mutsvangwa]] of the ZANU–PF caucus made the motion to convene a joint session of Parliament with the full [[Senate of Zimbabwe|Senate]] for the impeachment of Mugabe, and MP James Maridadi of the MDC-T seconded the motion.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.herald.co.zw/live-parliament-sit-to-impeach-president-mugabe/|title=BREAKING NEWS: President Mugabe resigns!... Announcement of a new leader tomorrow|date=21 November 2017|access-date=18 February 2022|work=[[The Herald (Zimbabwe)|The Herald]]}}</ref> The MPs then adjourned to the Harare International Conference Centre for the joint session because the Parliament building could not accommodate a joint sitting.<ref>{{cite tweet|user=euinzim |number=932981487997251584 |title=We are live at HICC, waiting for National Assembly & Senate to start their joint sitting for deliberations on impeachment of Pres. #Mugabe.}}</ref> The joint session was tasked with deciding on impeachment by a majority vote and selecting a nine-member committee to investigate the allegations against Mugabe: {{blockquote| # serious misconduct; # failure to obey, uphold and defend the Constitution; # willful violation of the Constitution; # inability to perform the functions of the Office because of physical or mental incapacity.}} If this committee recommended impeachment, the joint sitting had to approve the recommendation by a two-thirds majority (233 seats of the 347-seat total).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.news24.com/news24/Africa/Zimbabwe/live-zim-parliament-begins-session-to-remove-mugabe-20171121|title=AS IT HAPPENED: Britain offers help for Zimbabwe after Mugabe 'oppression'|date=21 November 2017|access-date=18 February 2022|work=[[News24 (website)|News24]]}}</ref> However, both major parties supported the motion and controlled all but four seats in the House of Assembly and all but two seats in the Senate between them. Mugabe's impeachment and removal thus appeared all but certain. Prior to the session, a cabinet meeting called by Mugabe was snubbed by 17 out of 22 members, with the absentees opting to attend a mandatory meeting of the ZANU–PF parliamentary caucus.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/africa/robert-mugabe-impeachment-zimbabwe-parliament-begins-sessions-president-remove-latest-updates-a8067111.html|title=Zimbabwe just started impeaching Robert Mugabe|date=21 November 2017|website=The Independent|access-date=21 November 2017|archive-date=21 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171121125033/http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/africa/robert-mugabe-impeachment-zimbabwe-parliament-begins-sessions-president-remove-latest-updates-a8067111.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Mnangagwa wrote a letter saying that he could not meet personally with Mugabe while his safety could not be guaranteed. The letter also urged Mugabe to resign.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/politics/2017-11-21-in-full--emmerson-mnangagwas-plea-for-mugabe-to-resign/|title=Emmerson Mnangagwa's plea for Mugabe to resign|publisher=TimesLive|access-date=21 November 2017|date=21 November 2017|archive-date=21 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171121084927/https://www.timeslive.co.za/politics/2017-11-21-in-full--emmerson-mnangagwas-plea-for-mugabe-to-resign/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/21/zimbabwes-ousted-vice-president-emmerson-mnangagwa-breaks-silence-to-call-for-mugabe-to-go|title=Zimbabwe's ousted vice-president calls for Mugabe to quit|last=Graham-Harrison|first=Emma|date=21 November 2017|work=The Guardian|access-date=22 November 2017|language=en-GB|archive-date=22 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171122013007/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/21/zimbabwes-ousted-vice-president-emmerson-mnangagwa-breaks-silence-to-call-for-mugabe-to-go|url-status=live}}</ref> The crisis harmed Zimbabwe's economy, with investors dumping Zimbabwean stocks, sending them falling 10% on Monday to an eight-week low of 387.38.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.fin24.com/Markets/Equities/mugabes-woes-wipe-out-5bn-from-zimbabwes-skewed-stocks-20171121|title=Mugabe's woes wipe out $6bn from Zimbabwe's skewed stocks|website=Fin24.com|access-date=21 November 2017|date=21 November 2017|archive-date=21 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171121105403/https://www.fin24.com/Markets/Equities/mugabes-woes-wipe-out-5bn-from-zimbabwes-skewed-stocks-20171121|url-status=live}}</ref> At 18:00 local time Mugabe resigned.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-42071488|title=Zimbabwe's President Mugabe 'resigns'|date=21 November 2017|work=BBC News|access-date=21 November 2017|language=en-GB|archive-date=23 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200623213751/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-42071488|url-status=live}}</ref> His resignation, in the form of an official statement, was announced by [[List of Speakers of the House of Assembly of Zimbabwe|Speaker of Parliament]] Jacob Mudenda to the joint session. Many of the legislators in every party cheered happily right after Mudenda read Mugabe's resignation letter.<ref name=":15">{{Cite news|url=https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/nov/21/robert-mugabe-resignation-ends-standoff-in-zimbabw/|title=Robert Mugabe resignation ends standoff in Zimbabwe|last=Chikowore|first=Frank|date=21 November 2017|work=The Washington Times|access-date=22 November 2017|language=en-US|archive-date=22 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171122081143/https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/nov/21/robert-mugabe-resignation-ends-standoff-in-zimbabw/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/21/world/africa/zimbabwe-mugabe-mnangagwa.html|title=Robert Mugabe Resigns as Zimbabwe's President, Ending 37-Year Rule|last1=Onishi|first1=Norimitsu|date=21 November 2017|work=The New York Times|access-date=22 November 2017|last2=Moyo|first2=Jeffrey|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|archive-date=21 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171121214400/https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/21/world/africa/zimbabwe-mugabe-mnangagwa.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In accordance with the [[Constitution of Zimbabwe|Zimbabwean constitution]], the Vice-President, [[Phelekezela Mphoko]], became acting president, pending nomination of a new candidate by the ruling party. However, as he was out of the country at the time, it is disputed whether or not he served in that acting position.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://kubatana.net/2017/11/23/status-president-ministers-swearing-constitution-watch-112017/|title=The Status of the President and Ministers before the Swearing-in – Constitution Watch 11/2017|website=Kubatana.net|date=23 November 2017}}</ref> The ZANU–PF chief whip duly nominated Mnangagwa, telling news organisations that he would take over as president within 48 hours.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.news24.com/news24/emmerson-mnangagwa-to-head-zimbabwe-zanu-pf-chief-whip-20171121|title=Emmerson Mnangagwa to head Zimbabwe – Zanu-PF chief whip|date=21 November 2017|access-date=18 February 2022|work=[[News24 (website)|News24]]}}</ref> ==Post-resignation events== ===Wednesday, 22 November=== Mnangagwa arrived in Zimbabwe in the afternoon and gave a speech to the public outside of ZANU-PF headquarters, pledging "the beginning of a new unfolding democracy".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.news24.com/Africa/Zimbabwe/the-will-of-the-people-will-always-succeed-says-mnangagwa-20171122|title='The will of the people will always succeed,' says Mnangagwa|website=News24.com|access-date=22 November 2017|date=22 November 2017|archive-date=22 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171122203911/https://www.news24.com/Africa/Zimbabwe/the-will-of-the-people-will-always-succeed-says-mnangagwa-20171122|url-status=live}}</ref> The [[Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation]] posted a report that Mnangagwa would be sworn on 24 November as interim president to serve out the remainder of Mugabe's term in office.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.news24.com/Africa/Zimbabwe/zimbabwes-new-leader-manangagwa-to-be-sworn-in-friday-20171122|title=Zimbabwe's new leader Mnangagwa to be sworn in Friday|website=News24.com|access-date=22 November 2017|date=22 November 2017|archive-date=22 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171122120640/https://www.news24.com/Africa/Zimbabwe/zimbabwes-new-leader-manangagwa-to-be-sworn-in-friday-20171122|url-status=live}}</ref> ===Friday, 24 November=== Mnangagwa was sworn in on 24 November 2017.<ref name=RTE2017-11-24a/> ==Mugabe's house arrest, negotiations, and resignation== [[File:Robert Mugabe May 2015 (cropped).jpg|thumb|upright|right|President [[Robert Mugabe]], 93, who under different titles led Zimbabwe between 1980 and 2017]] Major General SB Moyo's initial statement said that "Mugabe and his family are safe and sound, and their security is guaranteed", indicating that President Mugabe and [[Grace Mugabe]] were likely both under military custody, though no clarifications were initially issued.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/zimbabawe-military-takes-over-the-country-says-president-mugabe-is-safe/2017/11/15/086865c2-c9d2-11e7-b0cf-7689a9f2d84e_story.html|title=Zimbabwe's military takes over country, says President Mugabe is 'safe'|last1=Sieff|first1=Kevin|date=15 November 2017|newspaper=The Washington Post|access-date=15 November 2017|last2=Schemm|first2=Paul|issn=0190-8286|archive-date=15 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115224913/https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/zimbabawe-military-takes-over-the-country-says-president-mugabe-is-safe/2017/11/15/086865c2-c9d2-11e7-b0cf-7689a9f2d84e_story.html|url-status=live}}</ref> South African president [[Jacob Zuma]] said that Robert Mugabe had been placed under [[house arrest]] by the Zimbabwe military. Mugabe told Zuma in a phone call that he was fine but was unable to leave his home.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-41997982|title=Robert Mugabe 'under house arrest'|date=15 November 2017|work=BBC News|access-date=15 November 2017|language=en-GB|archive-date=15 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115124456/http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-41997982|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2017/11/14/africa/zimbabwe-military-chief-treasonable-conduct/index.html|title=Zimbabwe in turmoil after apparent coup|author1=David McKenzie|author2=Brent Swails|author3=Angela Dewan|publisher=CNN|access-date=15 November 2017|archive-date=14 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171114223043/http://edition.cnn.com/2017/11/14/africa/zimbabwe-military-chief-treasonable-conduct/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Sky News]] reported that there were unconfirmed reports that Grace Mugabe had fled to [[Namibia]].<ref name=":9">{{Cite news|url=https://news.sky.com/story/robert-mugabes-wife-grace-flees-zimbabwe-amid-army-takeover-11127740|title=African Union head says Zimbabwe army takeover 'seems like a coup'|date=15 November 2017|publisher=[[Sky News]]|access-date=15 November 2017|language=en-GB|archive-date=15 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115153901/https://news.sky.com/story/robert-mugabes-wife-grace-flees-zimbabwe-amid-army-takeover-11127740|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[The Guardian]]'' also initially cited unconfirmed reports that she was in Namibia for a business trip, but later reported that she was apparently in detention with the rest of the family.<ref name=":10" /> On 15 November, Namibia neither confirmed nor denied the reports that Grace Mugabe was in the country.<ref name=":12">{{Cite news|url=https://www.namibian.com.na/61581/read/Namibia-worried-about-Zimbabwe|title=Namibia worried about Zimbabwe|date=15 November 2017|work=[[The Namibian]]|access-date=15 November 2017|language=en|archive-date=16 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171116055256/https://www.namibian.com.na/61581/read/Namibia-worried-about-Zimbabwe|url-status=live}}</ref> However, on 16 November, state-owned newspaper [[New Era (Namibia)|''New Era'']] quoted Namibian deputy prime minister [[Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah]] denying that Grace Mugabe was in the country.<ref name="auto">{{Cite news|url=https://www.newera.com.na/2017/11/16/grace-mugabe-not-here-says-government/|title=Grace Mugabe not here, says government|date=16 November 2017|work=New Era Newspaper Namibia|access-date=16 November 2017|language=en-ZA|archive-date=17 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171117123226/https://www.newera.com.na/2017/11/16/grace-mugabe-not-here-says-government/|url-status=live}}</ref> On Wednesday, 15 November, South African Defence Minister [[Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula]] and State Security Minister [[Bongani Bongo]] arrived at the Harare airport but were not allowed to leave the airport until the evening, when they were allowed to move to a hotel.<ref name="ST01">{{Cite news|title=The people have spoken|last1=wa Afrika|first1=Mzilikazi|date=19 November 2017|work=The Sunday Times|location=South Africa|last2=Ncube|first2=Njabulo|pages=1, 6|last3=Karombo|first3=Tawanda|last4=Ndlovu|first4=Ray}}</ref>{{rp|6}} On Thursday, 16 November, Mugabe was at Harare's State House to participate in talks with General Chiwenga and the two envoys from the [[Southern African Development Community]] over a transition of power. His friend and Catholic priest [[Fidelis Mukonori]] acted as a mediator.<ref name=":13" /> Others present were Zimbabwe's Defence Minister and State Security Minister, [[Sydney Sekeramayi]] and [[Kembo Mohadi]] respectively. One of the leading figures in the [[2007 Zimbabwean alleged coup d'état attempt|alleged coup attempt of 2007]], Air Vice Marshal [[Elson Moyo]], was also present.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://zambiareports.com/2017/11/17/uncertainty-over-zimbabwe-crisis-mugabe-exit-stalls/ |title=Uncertainty Over Zimbabwe Crisis: Mugabe Exit Stalls |publisher=Zambia Reports |last=Mwenya |first=George |date=2017-11-17 |access-date=2018-01-10 |archive-date=2 December 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171202203128/https://zambiareports.com/2017/11/17/uncertainty-over-zimbabwe-crisis-mugabe-exit-stalls/ |url-status=live }}</ref> According to sources referred to by ''[[The Daily Telegraph]]'' and [[BBC News]], Mugabe and his allies did not support his voluntary resignation before the end of his presidential term, which would coincide with the planned [[Zimbabwean general election, 2018|general election in 2018]].<ref name=":13" /><ref name=":14" /> That same day, ''[[The Independent]]'' reported that ZANU–PF leaders planned to meet the next day to draft a resolution dismissing Mugabe as president on 19 November and impeaching him on 21 November if he refused to step down.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/africa/zimbabwe-crisis-latest-robert-mugabe-zanu-pf-talks-replacing-president-military-takeover-harare-a8059746.html|title=Zimbabwe's army 'planning to impeach Mugabe'|last=Copley|first=Ed|date=17 November 2017|work=The Independent|access-date=17 November 2017|language=en-GB|archive-date=17 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171117071048/http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/africa/zimbabwe-crisis-latest-robert-mugabe-zanu-pf-talks-replacing-president-military-takeover-harare-a8059746.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On Friday, 17 November, Mugabe appeared to have been temporarily released from his house arrest to attend a graduation ceremony at [[Zimbabwe Open University]] in Harare.<ref name="McKenzie"/> [[File:Emmerson Mnangagwa 2017.png|upright=0.77|thumb|right|On 19 November, [[Emmerson Mnangagwa]] replaced Mugabe as the leader of ZANU–PF.]] On Sunday, 19 November, Mugabe was sacked as the leader of ZANU–PF, and [[Emmerson Mnangagwa]], the former Zimbabwean vice-president, appointed in his place.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-42043370|title=Ruling party sacks Mugabe as leader|date=19 November 2017|publisher=BBC|access-date=19 November 2017|archive-date=19 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171119115929/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-42043370|url-status=live}}</ref> Reports emerged that Mugabe was on [[hunger strike]], refusing to voluntarily step down as [[President of Zimbabwe]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.standard.co.uk/news/world/mugabe-on-hunger-strike-as-zimbabwe-officials-meet-to-discuss-his-removal-a3695156.html|title=Robert Mugabe 'on hunger strike' as Zimbabwe officials meet to discuss his removal|date=17 November 2017|access-date=17 November 2017|archive-date=19 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171119123756/https://www.standard.co.uk/news/world/mugabe-on-hunger-strike-as-zimbabwe-officials-meet-to-discuss-his-removal-a3695156.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-national-byo-122415.html|date=19 November 2017|title=Mugabe goes on hunger strike, refuses to talk|access-date=19 November 2017|archive-date=22 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171122110203/http://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-national-byo-122415.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The same day, Grace Mugabe and 20 of her associates were expelled from ZANU–PF.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/19/zimbabwe-ruling-party-fires-robert-mugabe-as-leader|title=Chaos in Zimbabwe after Mugabe fails to announce expected resignation|first1=Jason Burke Africa|last1=correspondent|first2=Emma|last2=Graham-Harrison|date=20 November 2017|access-date=20 November 2017|website=The Guardian|archive-date=19 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171119203404/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/19/zimbabwe-ruling-party-fires-robert-mugabe-as-leader|url-status=live}}</ref> Reports later that day suggested that Mugabe would resign during a television address that evening. However, during that address he said that he would remain as president.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-42046911|title=Defiant Mugabe vows to stay on|date=20 November 2017|access-date=20 November 2017|publisher=BBC|archive-date=26 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180726215055/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-42046911|url-status=live}}</ref> On 20 November, the country's military commander General [[Constantino Chiwenga]] announced in a televised address to the nation that former vice-president Emmerson Mnangagwa would soon return to Zimbabwe to resume talks with Mugabe and that he was encouraged by the contact between Mnangagwa, whom the army wanted to succeed Mugabe, and the President.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thezimbabwemail.com/main/mugabe-meet-mnagagwa-talks-chiwenga/|title='Mugabe to meet with Mnagagwa for talks' – Chiwenga – The Zimbabwe Mail|date=20 November 2017|website=Thezimbabwe.com|access-date=21 November 2017|archive-date=23 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171123024141/http://www.thezimbabwemail.com/main/mugabe-meet-mnagagwa-talks-chiwenga/|url-status=live}}</ref> On the same day, a motion to impeach and hold a no confidence vote against Mugabe was drafted by [[Lovemore Matuke]], the ZANU–PF chief whip in parliament,<ref name="auto1"/> before Mugabe finally resigned at 18:00 local time by sending a letter to the Speaker of Parliament.<ref name=":15" /> Vice-President [[Phelekezela Mphoko]] became the Acting President.<ref name="herald.co.zw"/> There was little interest among the political elite in prosecuting Mugabe, with those who had sought his impeachment in the past arguing he should be "allowed to rest".<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/23/world/africa/zimbabwe-mugabe-mnangagwa.html|title=Mugabe Will Continue Living in Zimbabwe, Spokesman Says|last=Onishi|first=Norimitsu|date=2017-11-23|work=The New York Times|access-date=2017-11-24|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|archive-date=24 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171124103937/https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/23/world/africa/zimbabwe-mugabe-mnangagwa.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On 23 November, military authorities agreed to grant Mugabe and his wife [[immunity from prosecution]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/23/zimbabwe-grants-robert-mugabe-immunity-from-prosecution|title=Zimbabwe grants Robert Mugabe immunity from prosecution|last=Burke|first=Jason|date=23 November 2017|work=The Guardian|access-date=23 November 2017|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077|archive-date=23 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171123121702/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/23/zimbabwe-grants-robert-mugabe-immunity-from-prosecution|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2017/11/23/africa/zimbabwe-mugabe-mnangagwa/index.html|title=Zimbabwe's Robert Mugabe granted immunity, military says|author1=Angela Dewan|author2=Brent Swails|publisher=CNN|access-date=23 November 2017|archive-date=23 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171123133109/http://edition.cnn.com/2017/11/23/africa/zimbabwe-mugabe-mnangagwa/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The couple was also to receive no less than $10 million, according to the constitution.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/25/robert-mugabe-payoff-family-immunity-zimbabwe-zanu-pf|title=Zimbabwe: Robert Mugabe to get $10m payoff and immunity for his family|last=Burke|first=Jason|date=2017-11-26|work=The Observer|access-date=2017-11-28|language=en-GB|issn=0029-7712|archive-date=28 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171128003810/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/25/robert-mugabe-payoff-family-immunity-zimbabwe-zanu-pf|url-status=live}}</ref> == Reactions == {{over-quotation|section|date=November 2017}} === Domestic === [[Nelson Chamisa]], the deputy leader of the [[Movement for Democratic Change – Tsvangirai]], the main opposition party in Zimbabwe, called for "peace, constitutionalism, democratization, the rule of law and the sanctity of human life".<ref name=":4" /> [[Tendai Biti]], the leader of another opposition party, called for a "roadmap back to legitimacy" through a [[transitional government]] and dialogue with regional organisations.<ref name=":10" /> [[Evan Mawarire]], a pastor and civic activist who had been arrested during the [[2016–17 Zimbabwe protests|2016–17 protests]], asked citizens to "remain calm and hopeful, alert but prayerful" and that the crisis was "the culmination" of citizen activist work.<ref name=":10" /> [[Christopher Mutsvangwa]], leader of the [[Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association]] and an ally of Mnangagwa, praised Army General Constantino Chiwenga for "a bloodless correction of gross abuse of power" and hoped that the army would restore a "genuine democracy" to Zimbabwe.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://nationalpost.com/pmn/news-pmn/the-latest-zimbabwe-party-accuses-army-leader-of-treason|title=The Latest: Zimbabwe's war vets praise army's actions|date=15 November 2017|work=[[National Post]]|access-date=15 November 2017|agency=[[Associated Press]]|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://apnews.com/364d8aaefe1c49c8b2a6dcdc35a45efd/Zimbabwe-war-vets-praise-army-for-'bloodless-correction|title=Zimbabwe war vets praise army for 'bloodless correction'|date=15 November 2017|work=Associated Press News|access-date=15 November 2017|language=en-US|archive-date=8 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200908213159/https://apnews.com/364d8aaefe1c49c8b2a6dcdc35a45efd/Zimbabwe-war-vets-praise-army-for-'bloodless-correction|url-status=live}}</ref> Former vice-president [[Joice Mujuru]] called for a transitional government focusing on economic recovery and electoral reform.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.coastweek.com/4046-Former-Zimbabwe-VP-Mujuru-calls-for-transitional-arrangement.htm|title=Former Zimbabwe VP Mujuru calls for 'transitional arrangement'|date=17 November 2017|website=Coastweek|access-date=17 November 2017|archive-date=17 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171117122822/http://www.coastweek.com/4046-Former-Zimbabwe-VP-Mujuru-calls-for-transitional-arrangement.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> === International === ==== Africa ==== [[Jacob Zuma]], the [[President of South Africa]], phoned Mugabe and confirmed his house arrest. Zuma also asked for calm and a transition that was in accordance with the [[Constitution of Zimbabwe]]. He also sent a ministerial-level envoy to talk with the leaders of the Zimbabwe military.<ref name=":9" /><ref name=":10" /> [[Julius Malema]], the leader of the [[Economic Freedom Fighters]] party and previously a Mugabe supporter, voiced support for the army's initiative. He [[Twitter|tweeted]]: "Someone had to do something, the army should make sure that there is no loss of life however anyone seeking to undermine this transition should be dealt with decisively. Finally free and stable Zimbabwe is coming in our life time."<ref name="oppo">{{Cite news|url=https://citizen.co.za/news/south-africa/1728779/what-malema-and-other-sa-politicians-are-saying-about-zimbabwe/|title=What Malema and other SA politicians are saying about Zimbabwe|last=Nemakonde|first=Vhahangwele|date=15 November 2017|work=[[The Citizen (South Africa)|The Citizen]]|access-date=16 November 2017|language=en-US|archive-date=15 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115181853/https://citizen.co.za/news/south-africa/1728779/what-malema-and-other-sa-politicians-are-saying-about-zimbabwe/|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Mmusi Maimane]], the leader of the [[Democratic Alliance (South Africa)|Democratic Alliance]] party simply stated that Mugabe must step down and called him a dictator. He also called for the democratic process to be upheld.<ref name="oppo" /> [[Nedbank]], a major South African bank, sent home several of its South African employees working for its Zimbabwean subsidiary, [[MBCA Bank]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gearsofbiz.com/companies-from-amplats-to-stanchart-on-alert-amid-zimbabwe-coup/202694|title=Companies From Amplats to StanChart on Alert Amid Zimbabwe Coup|publisher=gearsofbiz.com|access-date=16 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171116135436/http://gearsofbiz.com/companies-from-amplats-to-stanchart-on-alert-amid-zimbabwe-coup/202694|archive-date=16 November 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> [[Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah]], the [[Foreign Minister of Namibia]], said that the incident "creates uncertainty that is not conducive to peace, stability, and consolidation of democracy in Zimbabwe and the region as a whole" and said that Namibia expected that democratic institutions in Zimbabwe would continue to function under its constitution. Nandi-Ndaitwah also said that the Namibian government expected Zimbabwe to abide by the [[Southern African Development Community]]'s Treaty on Governance and the African Union Constitutive Act. On 16 November, Namibia denied reports that Grace Mugabe was in the country.<ref name="auto" /> [[Alpha Condé]], the [[President of Guinea]] and the leader of the [[African Union]], rebuked the actions of the military and demanded the immediate restoration of the rule of law under the Zimbabwean Constitution.<ref name=":9" /><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.firstpost.com/world/african-union-chief-alpha-conde-says-body-will-never-accept-zimbabwe-coup-demands-respect-for-constitution-4214087.html|title=African Union chief Alpha Conde says body will never accept Zimbabwe 'coup', demands respect for Constitution|date=17 November 2017|work=Firstpost|access-date=23 November 2017|agency=[[Agence France-Presse]]|language=en-US|archive-date=20 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171120044245/http://www.firstpost.com/world/african-union-chief-alpha-conde-says-body-will-never-accept-zimbabwe-coup-demands-respect-for-constitution-4214087.html|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Edgar Lungu]], the [[President of Zambia]], condemned the events, saying that they were "not in tune with modern politics".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.lusakatimes.com/2017/11/16/illegal-takeover-power-zimbabwe-not-tune-modern-politics-president-lungu/|publisher=LusakaTimes|title=The illegal takeover of power in Zimbabwe is not in tune with modern politics – President Lungu|date=16 November 2017|access-date=18 November 2017|archive-date=20 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180720205350/https://www.lusakatimes.com/2017/11/16/illegal-takeover-power-zimbabwe-not-tune-modern-politics-president-lungu/|url-status=live}}</ref> While Abdelaziz Benali Cherif, the Foreign Minister of Algeria, called for respect for Zimbabwe's constitutional order.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2017-11/17/c_136758647.htm |title=Algeria calls for respect for constitution in Zimbabwe |agency=Xinhua News Agency |date=17 November 2017 |access-date=18 November 2017 |archive-date=17 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171117065447/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2017-11/17/c_136758647.htm |url-status=dead }}</ref> [[Fatoumata Tambajang]], [[Vice-President of the Gambia]], called for dialogue between the military and political leadership to solve the crisis.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://jollofnews.com/2017/11/16/gambias-vp-urges-dialogue-to-solve-zimbabwe-crisis/|title=Gambia's VP Urges Dialogue To Solve Zimbabwe Crisis|date=16 November 2017|access-date=16 November 2017|archive-date=17 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171117065523/https://jollofnews.com/2017/11/16/gambias-vp-urges-dialogue-to-solve-zimbabwe-crisis/|url-status=live}}</ref> The [[Southern African Development Community]] (SADC) held an urgent meeting at the SADC headquarters in [[Gaborone]] on 16 November. The meeting was called by Zuma and was expected to be attended by the leaders of Angola, Tanzania, and Zambia.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?id=49889|title=SADC Organ Troika meets over tensions in Zimbabwe|date=16 November 2017|work=Defence Web|access-date=16 November 2017|agency=SA News|archive-date=17 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171117070044/http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?id=49889|url-status=live}}</ref> On 22 November, [[Kenya]]'s former prime minister [[Raila Odinga]], a key mediator of the [[2008–09 Zimbabwean political negotiations]], hailed Zimbabwe for "peacefully overthrowing tyranny and dictatorship".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/article/2001260934/raila-odinga-hails-zimbabwe-s-bloodless-coup|title=Raila Odinga hails Zimbabwe's bloodless 'coup'|first=Mercy|last=Asamba|website=Standardmedia.co.ke|access-date=22 November 2017|archive-date=22 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171122095600/https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/article/2001260934/raila-odinga-hails-zimbabwe-s-bloodless-coup|url-status=live}}</ref> The [[African Union]] issued a statement in which it refrained from describing the military intervention as a 'coup', but instead said Mugabe's ouster was a legitimate expression of the will of the Zimbabwean people.<ref name=RTE2017-11-22a>{{cite web|url=https://www.rte.ie/news/world/2017/1122/921922-zimbabwe-mugabe-mnangagwa/|title=Zimbabwe's Mnangagwa to be sworn in as president on Friday|date=22 November 2017|access-date=22 November 2017|publisher=[[Raidió Teilifís Éireann]]|quote=Despite the Zimbabwe army's intervention, the AU did not characterise Mr Mugabe's ousting as a coup, but rather a legitimate expression of the will of Zimbabweans. "The African Union recognises that the Zimbabwean people have expressed their will that there should be a peaceful transfer of power in a manner that secures the democratic future of their country," it said.|archive-date=22 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171122101004/https://www.rte.ie/news/world/2017/1122/921922-zimbabwe-mugabe-mnangagwa/|url-status=live}}</ref> ==== Beyond Africa ==== Foreign embassies, including the American, Canadian, British, and Dutch embassies in Harare, issued warnings to citizens of their countries to stay indoors because of the military activity in the city.<ref name=":3" /><ref name=":6" /><ref name=":8" /> A German spokesperson for the [[Federal Foreign Office]] told a press conference in Berlin that "We see developments there with concern ... The situation there is confusing and unclear."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thezimbabwemail.com/main/zimbabwe-crisis-eu-germany-south-africa-others-react/|title=Zimbabwe Crisis: EU, Germany, South Africa, others react|date=15 November 2017|work=The Zimbabwe Mail|access-date=16 November 2017|archive-date=15 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115175111/http://www.thezimbabwemail.com/main/zimbabwe-crisis-eu-germany-south-africa-others-react/|url-status=live}}</ref> British foreign secretary [[Boris Johnson]] called "for everybody to refrain from violence" and stated that "everybody wants to see a stable and successful Zimbabwe".<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.news24.com/Africa/Zimbabwe/britain-urges-no-violence-in-zimbabwe-20171115 |title=Britain urges no violence in Zimbabwe |date=15 November 2017 |website=News24 |access-date=16 November 2017 |archive-date=17 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171117002933/https://www.news24.com/Africa/Zimbabwe/britain-urges-no-violence-in-zimbabwe-20171115 |url-status=live }}</ref> While Australian prime minister [[Malcolm Turnbull]] characterised the Mugabe regime as a dictatorship, the [[Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Australia)|Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade]] upgraded its travel advice, warning Australians to reconsider travelling to the country.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/2017/11/17/mugabe-brutal-dictator-turnbull|title=Mugabe a brutal dictator: Turnbull|website=Sbs.com.au|access-date=22 November 2017|archive-date=22 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171122003747/http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/2017/11/17/mugabe-brutal-dictator-turnbull|url-status=live}}</ref> The [[Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China|Chinese Foreign Ministry]] claimed that a meeting which occurred on 10 November between General Chiwenga and Chinese defence minister [[Chang Wanquan]] was innocuous and that China hoped that "the relevant parties in Zimbabwe [would] appropriately handle their internal matters".<ref name="reuters.com">{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-zimbabwe-politics-china/china-says-zimbabwe-military-chiefs-visit-was-normal-visit-idUSKBN1DF0UB|title=Zimbabwe military chief's China trip was normal visit, Beijing says|date=15 November 2017|work=[[Reuters]]|access-date=15 November 2017|archive-date=15 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115141654/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-zimbabwe-politics-china/china-says-zimbabwe-military-chiefs-visit-was-normal-visit-idUSKBN1DF0UB|url-status=live}}</ref> Venezuelan foreign minister [[Jorge Arreaza]] called for the "immediate restoration of the democratic institution and the respect for the Constitution".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloombergquint.com/onweb/2017/11/15/venezuela-slams-Zimbabwe-coup-calls-for-respect-of-democracy|title=Venezuela Slams Zimbabwe Coup, Calls for 'Respect' of Democracy|access-date=16 November 2017|archive-date=16 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171116080646/https://www.bloombergquint.com/onweb/2017/11/15/venezuela-slams-zimbabwe-coup-calls-for-respect-of-democracy|url-status=live}}</ref> [[António Guterres]], the [[Secretary-General of the United Nations]], through his deputy spokesperson, Farhan Haq, encouraged peace and resolution through negotiation within the workings of Zimbabwean Constitution. The UN also acknowledged the efforts of the SADC in resolving the crisis.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nation.co.ke/news/africa/United-Nations-African-Union-reacts/1066-4188994-ssay0/index.html|title=Zimbabwe crisis: United Nations, African Union react|last=Njikizana|first=Jekesai|work=[[Daily Nation]]|access-date=16 November 2017|archive-date=16 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171116080946/http://www.nation.co.ke/news/africa/United-Nations-African-Union-reacts/1066-4188994-ssay0/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> European Commission spokesperson Catherine Ray stated that the situation "is a matter of concern for the EU" and called for "peaceful resolution".<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.news24.com/Africa/Zimbabwe/zimbabwe-crisis-eu-urges-peaceful-resolution-20171115 |title=Zimbabwe crisis: EU urges 'peaceful' resolution |date=15 November 2017 |website=News24 |access-date=16 November 2017 |archive-date=17 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171117001537/https://www.news24.com/Africa/Zimbabwe/zimbabwe-crisis-eu-urges-peaceful-resolution-20171115 |url-status=live }}</ref> Deputy Russian prime minister [[Yury Trutnev]], on a visit to Southern Africa, directly blamed President Robert Mugabe for getting himself into trouble by failing to address the [[Socioeconomics|socioeconomic]] issues of the country which had left Zimbabweans impoverished and angry.<ref>{{Cite news|last=IndraStra Global News Team|date=18 November 2017|title=Zimbabwe: The End of Mugabe's Era|url=http://www.indrastra.com/2017/11/Zimbabwe-End-of-Mugabe-s-Era-003-11-2017-0014.html|work=IndraStra Global|access-date=18 November 2017|archive-date=1 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201044654/http://www.indrastra.com/2017/11/Zimbabwe-End-of-Mugabe-s-Era-003-11-2017-0014.html|url-status=live}}</ref> [[United States Secretary of State]] [[Rex Tillerson]] called Mugabe's resignation a "historic moment" for the country. He further congratulated Zimbabweans for peacefully bringing about a change which "was overdue" and emphasised that the United States would support Zimbabwe in transitioning to a stable, democratic government and economy.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Beavers|first1=Olivia|title=Tillerson: Mugabe resignation 'a historic moment' for Zimbabwe|url=https://thehill.com/policy/international/361442-tillerson-mugabe-resignation-a-historic-moment-for-zimbabwe/|access-date=24 November 2017|work=[[The Hill (newspaper)|The Hill]]|date=21 November 2017|archive-date=25 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171125071329/http://thehill.com/policy/international/361442-tillerson-mugabe-resignation-a-historic-moment-for-zimbabwe|url-status=live}}</ref> British prime minister [[Theresa May]] welcomed Mugabe's resignation stating that it "provides Zimbabwe with an opportunity to forge a new path free of the oppression that characterised his rule".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/zimbabwe-politics-britain-may/british-pm-may-says-mugabes-resignation-gives-zimbabwe-a-chance-to-be-free-idUSL9N1ML01E|title=British PM May says Mugabe's resignation gives Zimbabwe a chance to be free|work=Reuters.com|date=21 November 2017|access-date=24 November 2017|archive-date=1 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201080905/https://www.reuters.com/article/zimbabwe-politics-britain-may/british-pm-may-says-mugabes-resignation-gives-zimbabwe-a-chance-to-be-free-idUSL9N1ML01E|url-status=live}}</ref> == Analysis == Derek Matyszak, an analyst from the [[Institute for Security Studies]], said that it was rare to see [[tank]]s on Zimbabwe's roads, and that their mere presence meant that the country was "entering new territory".<ref name=":5"/> According to [[Nii Akuetteh]], an African policy analyst, the army's decision to present its actions as not being a coup was to avoid garnering opposition to their actions.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/11/zimbabwe-army-seizes-state-tv-denies-coup-ongoing-171115051459998.html|title=Zimbabwe army seizes state TV but denies coup ongoing|date=15 November 2017|publisher=[[Al Jazeera Media Network|Al Jazeera]]|access-date=15 November 2017|archive-date=15 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115055748/http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/11/zimbabwe-army-seizes-state-tv-denies-coup-ongoing-171115051459998.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Brian Latham, a journalist with [[Bloomberg News|''Bloomberg'']], judged that the future succession to Mugabe would be determined by four power brokers in the Zimbabwe elite. In addition to [[Emmerson Mnangagwa]] and [[Constantino Chiwenga|Constantine Chiwenga]], Latham also deemed that the influence of Lieutenant-General [[Philip Valerio Sibanda]] and Air Marshal [[Perrance Shiri]] would be decisive.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-11-15/zimbabwe-power-brokers-key-figures-in-battle-to-succeed-mugabe|title=Zimbabwe Power Brokers: Key Figures in Battle to Succeed Mugabe|date=15 November 2017|newspaper=Bloomberg.com|publisher=Bloomberg L.P.|access-date=16 November 2017|archive-date=16 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171116032954/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-11-15/zimbabwe-power-brokers-key-figures-in-battle-to-succeed-mugabe|url-status=live}}</ref> A 2019 study argued that the coup occurred "because soldiers from Zimbabwe's 1970s independence war subscribed to the coup's stated ideal to restore liberation struggle principles in the ruling Zimbabwe African National Union Patriotic Front party as well as party members who had been sidelined. Liberation war veterans held decisive army and air force command posts when the coup occurred... the coup's catalyst was Mugabe's refusal to meet his generals on 13 November 2017, for vital talks on widening differences between both parties. Sealing off dialogue catalyzed the coup."<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Tendi|first=Blessing-Miles|title=The Motivations and Dynamics of Zimbabwe's 2017 Military Coup|journal=African Affairs|language=en|doi=10.1093/afraf/adz024|year=2019|volume=119|issue=474|pages=39–67|url=https://ora.ox.ac.uk/objects/uuid:1fd93d5b-9652-4244-87e3-8054b3bb4ddf/download_file?safe_filename=Tendi-2019-The-motivations-and-dynamics--.pdf&file_format=application%2Fpdf&type_of_work=Journal+article}}</ref> ===Alleged Chinese involvement=== Days before the coup, General [[Constantino Chiwenga]] visited China to meet senior Chinese military leaders, including Generals [[Chang Wanquan]] and [[Li Zuocheng]]. Chiwenga's visit to China has come under scrutiny, with speculation that he had sought Beijing's tacit approval for a possible move against Mugabe.<ref>{{Cite web|last=George|first=Ben Westcott,Steve|date=2017-11-17|title=The Chinese connection to the Zimbabwe 'coup'|url=https://www.cnn.com/2017/11/17/africa/china-zimbabwe-mugabe-diplomacy/index.html|access-date=2023-05-16|website=CNN|language=en}}</ref> However, the [[Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China|Chinese Foreign Ministry]] said that his visit was a "normal military exchange."<ref name="reuters.com"/> The Chinese embassy in South Africa called the reports of Chinese involvement "contradictory, full of logical inconsistencies, and motivated by evil intentions."<ref>{{cite news|last1=Phillips|first1=Tom|title=China rejects claims it had hand in efforts to oust Robert Mugabe|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/21/china-rejects-claims-it-had-hand-in-efforts-to-oust-robert-mugabe|work=The Guardian|date=21 November 2017|access-date=1 August 2018|archive-date=19 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201119140607/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/21/china-rejects-claims-it-had-hand-in-efforts-to-oust-robert-mugabe|url-status=live}}</ref> ==See also== *{{slink|Constitution of Zimbabwe|Presidential succession}} *[[2007 Zimbabwean alleged coup d'état attempt]] *[[2016–17 Zimbabwe protests]] *[[2016–17 Zimbabwe floods]] *[[2018 Zimbabwean general election]] *[[2018 Bulawayo bombing]] ==References== {{Reflist}} ==Further reading== * {{cite book |first=Andrew |last=Norman |title=Robert Mugabe and the Betrayal of Zimbabwe |publisher=McFarland |year=2015 |isbn=978-1-4766-1670-4 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ChMzBwAAQBAJ |via=[[Google Books]] }} {{Zimbabwe topics}} {{Coup d'état}} {{African coups d'état}} {{DEFAULTSORT:Zimbabwean coup d'état, 2017}} [[Category:Conflicts in 2017]] [[Category:2010s coups d'état and coup attempts]] [[Category:2017 in Zimbabwe|Coup d'état]] [[Category:Military coups in Zimbabwe]] [[Category:November 2017 events in Africa|Zimbabwean coup d'état]] [[Category:2017 in politics]] Summary: Please note that all contributions to Christianpedia may be edited, altered, or removed by other contributors. 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