Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe has dismissed growing suspicion that his wife, Grace, is angling to succeed him as head of state.
Speaking on national television Thursday, Mr. Mugabe said it was up to his party to pick his successor when he decides to leave office.
But for now, those fighting for his position in Zanu PF must back off because there is no vacancy, the 92-year-old declared, adding that he was still firmly in charge.
Mrs. Mugabe’s direct involvement in the ruling Zanu PF’s succession wars has fueled public speculation that she wants to take over her husband’s position.
Her combative and bellicose rhetoric against party members she accuses of planning a coup d'état against President Mugabe has raised suspicions she wants the presidency.
And that feeling remains despite Mugabe’s denials, said political analyst Nkululeko Sibanda.
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Interview With Dr. Nkululeko Sibanda