Harare, Tuesday
Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, the world’s oldest national ruler, turned 93, using a long and occasionally rambling interview to vow to remain in power despite growing signs of frailty.
He celebrated with his staff in a private ceremony in Harare as supporters and ruling ZANU-PF party officials filled state media with gushing messages of goodwill and congratulations.
During an hour-long, pre-recorded television interview broadcast late Monday, Mugabe appeared to grow increasingly tired, pausing at length between sentences and speaking with his eyes barely open.
“The call to step down must come from my party... In such circumstances I will step down,” he said. Mugabe, who has ridiculed regular reports that he is close to death, spoke about creating jobs in Zimbabwe’s wrecked economy.
However, opposition used the birthday to say Mugabe was an outdated leader, incapable of solving the country’s problems.
The president’s main birthday celebrations will be held on Saturday at Matobo National Park outside Bulawayo, where thousands of officials and ZANU-PF faithful are expected to gather.
Large game animals are often slaughtered for the occasion. In previous years Mugabe has reportedly been offered elephants, buffalo and impala for the feast. -AFP
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