
Addressing journalists in Harare after a three-day working
visit, Mahamat said his mission was to get first-hand information regarding the
military’s role in Mugabe’s ouster.
“I met him (Mugabe), we exchanged views, and he also
explained why he resigned. It was for peace and development of the country. And
we appreciated that very much,” he said.
“This was the first time I was visiting the country. I
could not go without meeting him. Since President Mugabe forms part of the
heroes of who fought for the independence of Zimbabwe and the continent, he is
a common heritage for us.”
But sources claimed that the veteran politician spilled the
beans and told the AU envoy that he was pushed out by the military, which
imposed Mnangagwa as his successor.
The AU has since endorsed President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s
takeover as Mugabe’s successor.
Well-placed sources told NewsDay Mugabe disclosed to the AU
envoy that he was forced to resign by the military that now controls the ruling
Zanu PF and government structures. He reportedly said the process that removed
him from power was a coup.
Mahamat reportedly visited Mugabe in the company of AU
commissioner for political affairs, Minata Samate Cessouma, Home Affairs
minister Obert Mpofu, chief secretary to the President and Cabinet, Misheck
Sibanda and former Zimbabwe ambassador to Namibia, Chipo Zindoga.
Mahamat said Africa was satisfied that the transition was
peaceful and “it is the responsibility of the AU to support and accompany
countries in such situation in order to make sure that there is peace and
stability in the country and all others have to respect the sovereignty of the
country.”
“If there is any unconstitutional change of government,
then we have our own instruments, we have rules that apply in the case. We are
here to support the country in the transition and this transition has been publicly
supported by the people of Zimbabwe,” Mahamat added.
Mpofu refused to comment, saying it was a foreign affairs
issue.
Foreign Affairs minister Sibusiso Moyo was unreachable for
comment, as his mobile phone went unanswered. Newsday
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