The body of former president, Robert Mugabe, arrived Wednesday in Zimbabwe back from Singapore and was welcomed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
The hired plane carrying the former strongman’s remains landed at the Robert Mugabe International Airport at 3.25PM.
Mugabe, who ruled the country for three decades, died at a Singapore hospital on September 6 at the age of 95 from an undisclosed illness.
His body was accompanied by his widow, Grace who was covered in a black veil.
Their children, Bona, Robert Junior and Bellarmine Chatunga were also present.
Mugabe’s body from Singapore was also accompanied by a delegation led by Vice President, Kembo Mohadi.
Addressing the mourners consisting of cabinet members and service chiefs, President Mnangagwa started off his speech by sending his “sincere deep condolences” to the Mugabe family.
He said the entire country was grieving, having lost a light that led Zimbabwe to independence.
“His work and ideology will continue to guide this nation,” Mnangagwa noted.
Despite reports that Mugabe’s burial had been postponed, Mnangagwa mentioned that the burial was set for Sunday, appealing to “millions of people to attend the burial, show their love for the great leader and icon.”
Mnangagwa mentioned that his body “would proceed to One Commando Barracks where the military will say its prayer.”
“After that the body will go to his residence at the Blue Roof,” he said.
The president said more details of the funeral programme would be announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
“I appeal to you be peaceful, loving and be united. Zimbabwe is ours together we are one nation,” Mnangagwa said as he closed his speech.
Afterwards, the president led Grace, who was held hands by first lady, Auxilia Mnangagwa, to watch the casket carrying Mugabe’s body loaded into a hearse.
At that moment – of loading the body in the hearse – the former first lady, Grace, cried before being led to a car.
Meanwhile, Mugabe’s body has arrived at One Commando Barracks where it is indicated that a funeral service shall be held.
