Zimbabwean army declares end of mutiny

Zimbabwe's military has announced the end of the mutiny that led to Mr Mugabe's resignation, allowing for a smooth transition of power.

Phillip Valerio Sibanda, commander of the Zimbabwe National Army. Image:The Chronicle.

"The defence and security agencies announce the end of Operation Restore Legacy," AFP quoted Phillip Valerio Sibanda, commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, as telling reporters today. "Our country has returned to normal. We would like to thank the people of Zimbabwe for their support, patience and understanding during the five weeks of the operation."

Mr Sibanda called on Zimbabweans to remain vigilant "against bad, destructive people".

"The security and defence agencies urge all Zimbabweans to be vigilant and report any suspicious objects or individuals to law enforcement," Mr Sibanda said.

According to Mr Sibanda, members of the G40 group are abroad and are defaming the country in order to destroy peace and stability in Zimbabwe. The G40 is a group that supports Grace, wife of former President Robert Mugabe, in the succession battle.

The Zimbabwean military took over Zimbabwe's affairs on November 15 as tensions rose within the ruling ZANU-PF party over the selection of Mr Mugabe's successor. The move came shortly after Mr Mugabe fired his deputy Robert Mnangagwa, paving the way for Grace to become president.

ZANU-PF then sacked Mr Mugabe as party leader, electing Mr Mnangagwa in his place. Mr Mnangagwa was sworn in as president on 24 November, vowing to protect Zimbabweans and restore the economy.

According to VNE