Mugabe receives loud applause

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Guests cheered and clapped loudly as Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe and his wife Grace walked into the Nelson Mandela Amphitheatre yesterday.

PRETORIA — Guests cheered and clapped loudly as Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe and his wife Grace walked into the Nelson Mandela Amphitheatre yesterday.

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A smiling Mugabe waved at guests as Justice minister Jeff Radebe said: “Phambili leChimurenga, phambili.”

Former Zambian president Kenneth Kaunda also received loud applause as he entered the venue for President Jacob Zuma’s inauguration.

The two leaders have had problems with their health recently. Kaunda (89), was hospitalised in February reportedly for fatigue.

Kaunda ruled the country for 27 years.

This week video footage of Mugabe (90) arriving at a private hospital in Singapore with his wife Grace, sparked speculation over his health. Mugabe’s health is a concern for Zimbabweans who fear instability if the elderly statesman dies in office without resolving succession issues within the ruling Zanu PF party.

He has been president since 1980 when Zimbabwe got independence from Britain.

Former Home Affairs minister and chairperson of the African Union Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma also received thunderous applause when she entered.

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Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan who has been under fire following the kidnapping of over 200 schoolgirls by rebel group Boko Haram, also attended the inauguration. As he walked in wearing his signature hat, Radebe said: “We want our girls back.”

— Pretoria News Weekend