Activists start anti-Mugabe protests early ahead of first-ever state-sponsored mass demonstration against the dictator despite his pleas for 'a few more months' in charge

  • Robert Mugabe and his wife were detained after the military staged a 'bloodless correction' earlier this week
  • The deposed 93-year-old is under intense pressure to stand down but is refusing to resign, sources claim 
  • Mugabe has made his first public appearance since the coup at university graduation ceremony this morning
  • Police have given green light for an anti-Mugabe rally to take place today with thousands due to attend

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Activists were yesterday drumming up support for a huge state-sponsored mass demonstration against Robert Mugabe. 

Video has emerged of activists of ruling party Zanu-PF, which is demanding the resignation of its leader Mugabe, driving around the streets of Harare.

A man is seen standing on the back of a Zanu-PF truck shouting: 'Everyone irrespective of political affiliation, come and let's meet in Harare. 

'We are tired of Mugabe running this country like his private company. Let's all come together and install a new leader for Zimbabwe.' 

The astonishing public display of anti-Mugabe sentiment would have been unthinkable just a week ago. It shows how dramatically the political climate in Zimbabwe has shifted since the army took over power on Tuesday.   

It emerged yesterday that Mugabe has pleaded for 'a few more days, a few more months' as he continues to resist demands that he resign. The request was revealed by Zimbabwe's war veterans' association. 

It came as Mashonaland East province passed a motion of no confidence against the 93-year-old today, with a further 10 sections of his ruling party expected to follow suit in the coming days. 

The president of Botswana, Ian Khama, added his voice to the pressure on Mugabe, insisting that he must go. 

'I don't think anyone should be president for that amount of time,' he said. 'We are presidents, we are not monarchs. It's just common sense.' 

Meanwhile, thousands are expected to take to the streets of Zimbabwe today in what is thought to be the first ever state-sanctioned protest against Mugabe.

Zimbabwe's influential National Liberation War Veterans Association called for an anti-Mugabe rally on Saturday and said the 'game was up' for the veteran leader and his wife.

Robert Mugabe (pictured) appeared to fall asleep as he stepped out in public for the first time since a military takeover

Robert Mugabe (pictured) appeared to fall asleep as he stepped out in public for the first time since a military takeover

This morning, Mugabe, clad in academic gown and hat, made his first public appearance since the coup at a university graduation ceremony on the outskirts of Harare. With his presidential security team present, he walked slowly in a procession on a red carpet to a podium as a marching band played in front of thousands of appaluding graduates of the Zimbabwe Open University

This morning, Mugabe, clad in academic gown and hat, made his first public appearance since the coup at a university graduation ceremony on the outskirts of Harare. With his presidential security team present, he walked slowly in a procession on a red carpet to a podium as a marching band played in front of thousands of appaluding graduates of the Zimbabwe Open University

Once on the podium, Mr Mugabe joined the crowd in singing Zimbabwe's national anthem and he was applauded as he announced the opening of the ceremony

Once on the podium, Mr Mugabe joined the crowd in singing Zimbabwe's national anthem and he was applauded as he announced the opening of the ceremony

Mr Mugabe, who looked drawn but energetic and determined, was not scheduled to make a speech at the event. Instead, the pro-Vice Chancellor will address the audience before Mr Mugabe places mortar boards on the heads of students

Mr Mugabe, who looked drawn but energetic and determined, was not scheduled to make a speech at the event. Instead, the pro-Vice Chancellor will address the audience before Mr Mugabe places mortar boards on the heads of students

The demonstration has since been given the green light by police - another example of the growing freedoms Zimbabweans have been enjoying since Mugabe's house arrest began.

Yesterday footage showed the dictator appearing to fall asleep as he attended a university graduation ceremony on the outskirts of the capital Harare today. 

With his presidential security team present, the 93-year-old had earlier walked slowly in a procession on a red carpet to a podium as a marching band played in front of thousands of graduates of the Zimbabwe Open University.

There was still no sign, however, of Mugabe's wife, Grace, 52, who is said to have been with the tyrant when the pair were placed under house arrest at their £7.5million Blue Roof mansion in Harare earlier this week. 

Robert Mugabe could be fired by Zimbabwe's ruling party on Sunday if he refuses to stand down and will face impeachment next week as his party says there is 'no going back'. He is pictured second from right alongside Zimbabwe Defence Forces Commander General Constantino Chiwenga (right) and South African envoys

Robert Mugabe could be fired by Zimbabwe's ruling party on Sunday if he refuses to stand down and will face impeachment next week as his party says there is 'no going back'. He is pictured second from right alongside Zimbabwe Defence Forces Commander General Constantino Chiwenga (right) and South African envoys

Robert Mugabe (back centre)  was placed under house arrest in a military coup and there are now claims he is refusing to step down as Zimbabwe's president. Also in the room, is military chief General Constantino Chiwenga (in fatigues), defence minister Sydney Sekerayami (to Mugabe's left), State Security Minister Kembo Mohadi (red tie) and South African politician Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula (yellow head wear)

Robert Mugabe (back centre) was placed under house arrest in a military coup and there are now claims he is refusing to step down as Zimbabwe's president. Also in the room, is military chief General Constantino Chiwenga (in fatigues), defence minister Sydney Sekerayami (to Mugabe's left), State Security Minister Kembo Mohadi (red tie) and South African politician Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula (yellow head wear)

Pictures emerged in state newspaper The Herald yesterday amid  claims the deposed leader was refusing to immediately resign during talks with generals

Pictures emerged in state newspaper The Herald yesterday amid claims the deposed leader was refusing to immediately resign during talks with generals

 There was still no sign, however, of his wife, Grace, 52, who is said to have been with Mugabe when the pair were placed under house arrest at their £7.5million Blue Roof mansion in Harare earlier this week

 There was still no sign, however, of his wife, Grace, 52, who is said to have been with Mugabe when the pair were placed under house arrest at their £7.5million Blue Roof mansion in Harare earlier this week

The military remains in the streets of the capital Harare as the mood is tense. Regional officials are meeting to discuss the crisis as civil society groups and churches in Zimbabwe issue appeals for calm

A demonstration planned for tomorrow has been given the green light by police - another example of the growing freedoms Zimbabweans have been enjoying since Mugabe's house arrest began

A demonstration planned for tomorrow has been given the green light by police - another example of the growing freedoms Zimbabweans have been enjoying since Mugabe's house arrest began

In a statement today, the military said it had made 'significant progress' in an operation 'to weed out criminals around President Mugabe' but others were being sought for 'committing crimes that were causing social and economic suffering in Zimbabwe'. 

The army is seeking Cabinet ministers and other top officials who had been associates of Grace Mugabe, part of a political clique dubbed the G40 because many were in their 40s and 50s.  

Amid a power struggle to succeed the veteran leader, Zimbabwe's former vice president Emmerson Mnangagwa, whose sacking last week triggered the military's takeover, has returned to the country. 

Army troops and armored vehicles continued to patrol the capital, Harare, as Zimbabweans went about their daily business today.

The military has had Mugabe under house arrest since late Tuesday, yet it is taking pains to show respect for the world's oldest head of state, by referring to him as the president and the commander-in-chief.

The ongoing negotiations appear to be trying to get Mugabe to agree to hand over to a new government. But difficulties could include the timing. The ruling party is set to meet next month, and Mugabe's term ends next year. An election date has not been set.

The deposed 93-year-old was placed under house arrest in his £7.5million, palatial residence, known as the Blue Roof. Tanks and soldiers are patrolling the streets of the capital Harare

The deposed 93-year-old was placed under house arrest in his £7.5million, palatial residence, known as the Blue Roof. Tanks and soldiers are patrolling the streets of the capital Harare

Robert Mugabe was placed under house arrest in his palatial mansion (pictured), a sprawling 44-acre estate with 25 bedrooms

Robert Mugabe was placed under house arrest in his palatial mansion (pictured), a sprawling 44-acre estate with 25 bedrooms

Robert Mugabe is insisting he remains Zimbabwe's only legitimate ruler, an intelligence source said, and is resisting mediation by a Catholic priest to allow the 93-year-old former guerrilla a graceful exit after a military coup

Robert Mugabe is insisting he remains Zimbabwe's only legitimate ruler, an intelligence source said, and is resisting mediation by a Catholic priest to allow the 93-year-old former guerrilla a graceful exit after a military coup

The Chinese military held a welcoming ceremony for General Constantine Chiwenga during his visit last week. China's Foreign Ministry has said that the visit was merely a 'normal military exchange'

The Chinese military held a welcoming ceremony for General Constantine Chiwenga during his visit last week. China's Foreign Ministry has said that the visit was merely a 'normal military exchange'

Zimbabwean army commander General Constantino Chiwenga, who appears to have taken control of the country, visited Beijing last week. He is pictured shaking hands with Chang Wanquan, the Chinese minister of defence

Zimbabwean army commander General Constantino Chiwenga, who appears to have taken control of the country, visited Beijing last week. He is pictured shaking hands with Chang Wanquan, the Chinese minister of defence

In a striking image of the fluidity of the political situation, the Zimbabwe Herald on Thursday published photos of Mugabe jovially shaking hands with army commander Constantino Chiwenga, the general who ordered the president's arrest.

Meanwhile there was speculation that military chiefs may have asked China for its blessing before launching the coup.

China's Foreign Ministry has said that the visit to Beijing last week of General Constantino Chiwenga, who appears to have taken control of Zimbabwe, was merely a 'normal military exchange'.

But analysts have suggested that China may have given Chiwenga its tacit blessing to launch the coup, the Daily Telegraph reports. 

Asked whether Chiwenga briefed Chinese officials on any plans for a military takeover in Zimbabwe, government spokesman Geng Shuang told reporters that the Defense Ministry had handled arrangements for the visit and he was 'not aware of the details.'

'What I can tell you is that his visit was a normal military exchange as agreed by the two countries,' Geng said at a regularly scheduled news conference.

In a November 10 posting on its microblog, the Defense Ministry showed Chiwenga smiling and shaking hands with Chinese Defense Minister Chang Wanquan at the ministry in central Beijing. A separate photo showed the two seated with their delegations at a conference table.

Soldiers were still patrolling the streets of Harare yesterday as attempts were made to negotiate a transition of power

Soldiers were still patrolling the streets of Harare yesterday as attempts were made to negotiate a transition of power

On patrol: Troops have been stationed at strategic points around the capital Harare. A Catholic priest is said to be mediating  negotiations over a transfer of power
On patrol: Troops have been stationed at strategic points around the capital Harare. A Catholic priest is said to be mediating  negotiations over a transfer of power

On patrol: Troops have been stationed at strategic points around the capital Harare. A Catholic priest is said to be mediating  negotiations over a transfer of power

Soldiers check a gun as they stand on an armoured vehicle parked in the central district of Harare, Zimbabwe yesterday

Soldiers check a gun as they stand on an armoured vehicle parked in the central district of Harare, Zimbabwe yesterday

People across Zimbabwe are facing another day of uncertainty amid quiet talks to resolve the country's political turmoil and the likely end of President Robert Mugabe's decades-long rule

People across Zimbabwe are facing another day of uncertainty amid quiet talks to resolve the country's political turmoil and the likely end of President Robert Mugabe's decades-long rule

A picture taken by lawyer Fadzayi Mahere appeared to show a line of police officers sitting on the ground in the capital being watched by soldiers earlier this week. Mahere, who aims to be an MP in the city, took the picture from the window of her office. It is not known what happened to the men

A picture taken by lawyer Fadzayi Mahere appeared to show a line of police officers sitting on the ground in the capital being watched by soldiers earlier this week. Mahere, who aims to be an MP in the city, took the picture from the window of her office. It is not known what happened to the men

Catholic priest Father Fidelis Mukonori (pictured) was mediating a potential political exit for Mugabe - but the veteran leader is insisting he can only be removed via a party leadership vote, political and intelligence sources said yesterday

Catholic priest Father Fidelis Mukonori (pictured) was mediating a potential political exit for Mugabe - but the veteran leader is insisting he can only be removed via a party leadership vote, political and intelligence sources said yesterday

China has been a resolute supporter of Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe despite rising international criticism over his authoritarian rule and human rights violations. Military ties between the sides date from Chinese support for Zimbabwe's armed struggle against white minority rule in the 1970s.

Mugabe and his family also have close ties to the Chinese special administrative region of Hong Kong, where they were involved in a legal case involving a luxury property and his daughter Bona was a university student.

Mugabe's wife Grace was also accused by a photographer of assaulting him during a shopping excursion in the city in 2009. Mugabe left the territory without being charged.

It comes amid suggestions China is attempting to increase its own military influence in Africa. In July, it emerged that Beijing had sent troops to the Horn of Africa to establish its first international base.

Ships were reported to have set sail from the southern city of Zhanjiang, around 260 miles west of Hong Kong for the small African country of Djibouti.

The new base, just four miles from US Camp Lemonnier, was seen as China's first step towards international military power.

The base was established under agreement between China and Djibouti after 'friendly negotiations, and accords with the common interest of the people from both sides,' Chinese state news agency Xinhua said.

The world's oldest dictator: Tyrant whose savage rule was dominated by bloodshed and vote-rigging

Robert Mugabe's legacy as one of the most ruthless tyrants of modern times will remain long after his days as notorious statesman of Zimbabwe are over.

What could turn out to be the 93-year-old leader's final night in charge of the troubled south African nation concluded in typically chaotic fashion with the army saying it had Mugabe and his ambitious wife Grace in custody following a takeover of the state broadcaster.

Tensions escalated after the first lady appeared to be positioned to replace Mugabe's recently fired deputy Emmerson Mnangagwa, leading many in Zimbabwe to suspect she could eventually succeed her husband.

The elderly politician's second wife - after Sarah Hayfron died in 1992 - remained unpopular with some Zimbabweans because of her lavish spending, including in London's plush stores, while many around her struggled against the country's crippling economy.

Ageing: Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe, 93, who has been in power since 1980, is in increasingly fragile health and makes regular trips abroad for medical treatment

Ageing: Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe, 93, who has been in power since 1980, is in increasingly fragile health and makes regular trips abroad for medical treatment

Tensions over the succession of Zimbabwe's ageing president, Robert Mugabe, have erupted into the open, pitching First Lady Grace Mugabe against Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa

Tensions over the succession of Mugabe, recently erupted into the open, and had pitched First Lady Grace Mugabe against  now-sacked Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa

Mugabe's savage rule over Zimbabwe was dominated by murder, bloodshed, torture, persecution of political opponents, intimidation and vote-rigging on a grand scale.

He was the man who, in 1980, became the head of government of Zimbabwe, chosen to guide the country towards 'democracy' after 14 years of rebellion against the Crown headed by white Southern Rhodesian leader Ian Smith.

Much of Mugabe's dirty work was carried out by his bullying henchmen, 'veterans' of the guerrilla war against the Smith regime.

They attacked and often murdered white farmers, burning their homes, looting their possessions and confiscating their land, while his political opponents were often beaten, sexually abused and sometimes charged with treason and homosexual offences.

The economy of this mineral-rich country descended into chaos with thousands of people reduced to grinding poverty, many of them suffering from near-starvation and worse.

Mugabe's relationship with the Commonwealth, which he dubbed an 'Anglo-Saxon unholy alliance', was always stormy.

Zimbabwe was suspended from the Commonwealth in March 2002 after Mugabe was denounced for vote-rigging his own re-election.

During the Commonwealth heads of government conference a year later, he quit the organisation while member states were arguing about Zimbabwe's future.

In 1980, Mugabe (shown in 2005) became the head of government of Zimbabwe, chosen to guide the country towards 'democracy' after 14 years of rebellion against the Crown headed by white Southern Rhodesian leader Ian Smith

In 1980, Mugabe (shown in 2005) became the head of government of Zimbabwe, chosen to guide the country towards 'democracy' after 14 years of rebellion against the Crown headed by white Southern Rhodesian leader Ian Smith

Princess Diana is pictured meeting President Robert Mugabe during a British Royal visit to Zimbabwe in 1993

Princess Diana is pictured meeting President Robert Mugabe during a British Royal visit to Zimbabwe in 1993

Robert Gabriel Mugabe was born on February 24 1924 in Kutama. He was educated at Kutama Mission School and Fort Hare University and obtained degrees in correspondence courses with other educational establishments, including London University.

He worked as a teacher at various schools in Zimbabwe (or Southern Rhodesia as it was then) and in neighbouring countries.

Mugabe became publicity secretary of the National Democratic Party in 1960 and the following year was appointed acting secretary-general of the Zimbabwe African People's Union, which was eventually banned.

He suffered political detention in 1962 and the following year co-founded and became secretary-general of ZANU. Again he was sentenced, without trial, to political detention in 1964, but escaped in 1974 to Mozambique from where he led the armed struggle against the regime right up to 1979.

When, through Lord (Christopher) Soames, Margaret Thatcher brokered a deal in 1979 to end the Ian Smith rebellion, to everyone's surprise, the Marxist Mugabe - with what was described as 'a mix of conciliatory and intimidatory rhetoric' - became prime minister from 1980 to 1987. From 1988 he was president of Zimbabwe.

The new government, anxious to attract foreign investment, declared that white farmers were a welcome and integral part of the new Zimbabwe.

Then the land seizures took place. Plans to redistribute land peacefully were not working and ultimately the wartime 'veterans' were sent in to dispossess the white farmers of their land, often violently.

Much of Mugabe's dirty work was carried out by his bullying henchmen, 'veterans' of the guerrilla war against the S Robert Mugabe is pictured with his wife Sally s in 1987

Mugabe's savage rule over Zimbabwe was dominated by murder, bloodshed, torture, persecution of political opponents, intimidation and vote-rigging on a grand scale. He is pictured with his wife Sally s in 1987

In many cases the fertile land went to wrack and ruin, leading to acute food shortages and a dramatic downturn in Zimbabwe's economy.

Meanwhile, as Mugabe grew into his 70s he became paranoid. He believed his opponents were trying to kill him.

Any voice of dissidence was met with violence and, in the case of an independent newspaper, shut down.

Political enemies were accused of homosexuality, and thrown into jail. Peter Tatchell, the human rights campaigner, was assaulted by Mugabe's bodyguards in 2001 when he tried to make a citizen's arrest on the Zimbabwean leader.

The sanctions imposed on the country at one stage barred Mugabe and his family and supporters from visiting Britain.

But despite an EU travel ban, he was allowed to attend the funeral of Pope John Paul II in Rome in 2005.

While there he shook hands with the Prince of Wales, who was seated one place away from the president. Clarence House said Charles was 'caught by surprise' when Mugabe leaned over to greet him.

Under Mugabe many humble Zimbabweans became billionaires, but ones on the brink of starvation and unable to pay for fuel because their money was worth so little thanks to stratospheric inflation.

In 2008 and 2009, the state's central bank printed so much of its currency - the Zimbabwe dollar - that the country experienced mind-boggling hyperinflation that reached 500 billion per cent, according to the International Monetary Fund.

The result was that items such as a loaf of bread would often cost millions of Zimbabwean dollars.

In 2008 Mugabe was stripped of his honorary knighthood, awarded in 1994, over his abuse of human rights and 'abject disregard' for democracy, the Foreign Office said at the time. The Queen approved the annulment

In 2008 Mugabe was stripped of his honorary knighthood, awarded in 1994, over his abuse of human rights and 'abject disregard' for democracy, the Foreign Office said at the time. The Queen approved the annulment

Inflation was only brought under control when the government abandoned the Zimbabwe currency and used the US dollar as its main medium of trade. Last year this was replaced with a new currency called bond notes.

As his dictatorial reign continued, many voiced their concerns about the power-obsessed leader. The then Archbishop of York, John Sentamu, cut up his dog collar on live television in a dramatic protest.

In 2008 Mugabe was stripped of his honorary knighthood, awarded in 1994, over his abuse of human rights and 'abject disregard' for democracy, the Foreign Office said at the time. The Queen approved the annulment.

But he was admired by some. In late 2015 he was awarded China's alternative to the Nobel Peace Prize, the Confucius Peace Prize, for what its committee called his inspired national leadership and service to pan-Africanism.

Mugabe had two sons and one daughter with Grace, while his first marriage produced one son who died.

Zimbabwe President's long rule at a glance:

1980: Mugabe named prime minister after independence elections

1982: Military action begins in Matabeleland against perceived uprising; government is accused of killing thousands of civilians

1987: Mugabe changes constitution and becomes president

1994: Mugabe receives honorary British knighthood

2000: Land seizures of white-owned farms begin; Western donors cut off aid

2005: United States calls Zimbabwe an 'outpost of tyranny'

2008: Mugabe and opposition candidate Morgan Tsvangirayi agree to share power after contested election; Britain's Queen Elizabeth II annuls Mugabe's honorary knighthood

2011: Prime Minister Tsvangirayi declares power-sharing a failure amid violence

2013: Mugabe wins seventh term; opposition alleges election fraud

2016: (hash)ThisFlag protest movement emerges; independence war veterans turn on Mugabe, calling him 'dictatorial'

2017: Mugabe begins campaigning for 2018 elections

November 6: Mugabe fires deputy Emmerson Mnangagwa, appearing to position first lady Grace Mugabe for vice president post

November 15: Army announces it has Mugabe and his wife in custody as military appears to take control 

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Yesterday, Catholic priest Father Fidelis Mukonori was mediating a potential political exit for Mugabe - but the veteran leader is insisting he can only be removed via a party leadership vote, political and intelligence sources said.

Mukonori is said to have known the president since the 1970s and is regarded as 'the spiritual father' of Mugabe, state-media has previously reported. 

Sources suggested that army officials were intending to hammer out a 'roadmap' that would detail an interim administration pending snap elections, thought to be called before the national poll is scheduled next June. 

Zimbabwean intelligence reports seen by Reuters suggest that former security chief Emmerson Mnangagwa, who was ousted as vice-president this month, has been mapping out a post-Mugabe vision with the military and opposition for more than a year.

Fuelling speculation that that plan might be rolling into action, opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai, who has been receiving cancer treatment in Britain and South Africa, returned to Harare late on Wednesday to say Mugabe should 'step down immediately' in the interest of the country.

He indicated that he and his party would be willing to play a role in any transitional government under the leadership of Emmerson 'the Crocodile' Mnangagwa.

The opposition leader praised the military, referring to soldiers as 'our liberation fighters' and adding that 'we appreciate the fact that the military has assured the sanctity of human life'.

A frail-looking Mr Tsvangarai, who had been receiving treatment for cancer in South Africa before flying back to Zimbabwe yesterday, underscored the fact that the army is in control, saying: 'the military are the only ones who can decide whether Mugabe and his wife can receive immunity.'

And he suggested that fresh elections are a foregone conclusion, calling on 'each and every one over the age of 18 to vote when the elections come.' 

According to CNN, a senior member of Tsvangirai's Movement for Democratic Change (MDC-T) party, said yesterday that talks talks were underway with military leaders over a possible administration involving the opposition. The source added that this was already a 'done deal'. 

Soldiers manning the few checkpoints on roads leading into downtown Harare are greeting motorists with a smile, searching cars without hostilities and wishing motorists a safe journey. 

Soldiers manning the few checkpoints on roads leading into downtown Harare are greeting motorists with a smile, searching cars without hostilities and wishing motorists a safe journey. 

This was the scene in the centre of Harare in Zimbabwe this morning as soldiers patrolled the streets after a 'bloodless transition' of power
This was the scene in the centre of Harare in Zimbabwe this morning as soldiers patrolled the streets after a 'bloodless transition' of power

This was the scene in the centre of Harare in Zimbabwe yesterday as soldiers patrolled the streets after a 'bloodless correction' of power

The US Embassy is advising citizens in Zimbabwe to 'limit unnecessary movements' as the country's political uncertainty continues

The US Embassy is advising citizens in Zimbabwe to 'limit unnecessary movements' as the country's political uncertainty continues

Central Harare remained calm yesterday, with citizens going about their day-to-day lives in a state of bewilderment

Central Harare remained calm yesterday, with citizens going about their day-to-day lives in a state of bewilderment

Fear dominated the streets of Harare yesterday as residents tried to carry on with their normal lives in the shadow of tanks and armoured cars after the dramatic ousting.

There were unconfirmed reports that people were beaten by soldiers in the early morning after straying too close to tanks. Very few pictures from Harare have been posting on social media because of the danger involved in taking photographs in the street.

Heavily armed troops continued to hold strategic positions in the centre of the city, blocking access to streets where government buildings were located and keeping a close watch on passers-by.

Last night, while Mr Mugabe was locked in negotiations with senior army figures, citizens stayed indoors and few people dared venture out, turning Harare into a ghost town.

Fast food outlets like Chicken Inn closed their doors and people who habitually sleep outside banks to be first in line to withdraw cash in the morning were nowhere to be seen.

As the sun rose, however, stunned residents tried to carry on as normal. Queues started to build up outside banks with people jostling for position and arguing as tensions simmered.

Tourists and foreigners have been noticeably absent from the streets all day, with most following advice from embassies including the UK and US to stay indoors.

A motorcade was seen leaving the Blue Roof mansion where Mugabe has been locked in negotiations with military figures, at about midday but no details were released about its occupants.  

The army has been at pains to describe the takeover as a 'democratic correction' but other officials branded it a coup. 

'This is a coup. They have taken over those guys, and it is not reversible,' one unnamed senior diplomat told a local paper. 

He added: 'Officially no one has called it a coup yet, even the generals themselves are not calling it a coup, but that is what it is... [Mugabe] is no longer in charge; he is basically under house arrest.'

It is understood that options for the coming months include Mr Mugabe stepping down immediately, opening the way for Emmerson 'Crocodile' Mnangagwa to assume power at least until the next elections, or for a transitional authority to be set up to lead the country until a new leadership is elected. 

'Gucci Grace': How Zimbabwe's first lady has divided opinion

Zimbabwe's first lady has been a divisive figure since marrying Robert Mugabe in a lavish ceremony in 1996.

The influence of 52-year-old Grace Mugabe, dubbed 'Gucci Grace' for her love of shopping, has grown over the years to the point where she was being lined up as a potential successor to her husband.

But the former secretary, who was expecting to be appointed vice-president at a party congress next month, is widely loathed in her homeland.

Her recent escapades include seeing a journalist detained for saying she donated used underwear to supporters, and relying on diplomatic immunity to evade charges for assaulting a model in South Africa.

Zimbabwe's first lady Grace Mugabe has been a divisive figure since marrying Robert Mugabe in a lavish ceremony in 1996. The couple are pictured together in 2004

Zimbabwe's first lady Grace Mugabe has been a divisive figure since marrying Robert Mugabe in a lavish ceremony in 1996. The couple are pictured together in 2004

The 52-year-old, 41 years younger than her husband, has bought homes in Dubai and South Africa, spent £3million of state funds on her daughter's wedding, and recently bought a £300,000 Rolls-Royce.

Grace began an affair with Robert Mugabe while working as one of his typists and while his first wife, Sally, was terminally ill.

He is said to have wooed Grace Marufu over tea and scones. They went on to marry in an extravagant ceremony in 1996.

Her three sons, one from a previous marriage, angered Zimbabweans by flaunting their wealth.

The 52-year-old, 41 years younger than her husband, has bought homes in Dubai and South Africa, spent £3million of state funds on her daughter’s wedding, and recently bought a £300,000 Rolls-Royce

The 52-year-old, 41 years younger than her husband, has bought homes in Dubai and South Africa, spent £3million of state funds on her daughter's wedding, and recently bought a £300,000 Rolls-Royce

One receipt posted online showed a single night's spending of $3,000 – three times the average annual income.

The youngest recently filmed himself pouring expensive champagne over a diamond-encrusted watch, bragging he owned the timepiece because 'daddy runs the whole country'. 

In her earlier years as Mugabe's wife, Grace had been known as a quiet figure known for her shopping and charity work. But she became increasingly involved in politics and Mugabe named her head of the ruling ZANU-PF party's women's wing in 2014.

She has always been a key supporter of her husband, but admitted in 2014: 'They say I want to be president. Why not? Am I not a Zimbabwean?'

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A diplomatic source told local media: 'The military still has residual respect for Mugabe. They don't want to stampede him out of power. They are looking for an honourable exit.'

The secretary of the youth wing of Mr Mugabe's Zanu-PF party issued a dramatic apology on national television at midnight yesterday asking for forgiveness after his previous vociferous support for Mr Mugabe.

On Wednesday, the secretary had publicly called for Mr Mnangagwa to account for $15billion worth of diamonds which Mugabe said went missing last year.

Jacob Zuma, the chair of the Southern African Development Community, sent defence minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and state security minister Bongani Bongo to assist the tense negotiations, local media reported. 

The US Embassy issued another statement yesteday condemning the current situation and urging the army to abide by the constitution.

The African Union issued a statement yesterday urging the army to enact a peaceful transition.  

Zimbabwe's military stormed the country's national broadcaster's studios on Tuesday night to declare there was no coup after explosions and gunfire were heard in the capital

Zimbabwe's military stormed the country's national broadcaster's studios on Tuesday night to declare there was no coup after explosions and gunfire were heard in the capital

A military tank is seen with armed soldiers on the road leading to President Robert Mugabe's office in Harare, Zimbabwe

A military tank is seen with armed soldiers on the road leading to President Robert Mugabe's office in Harare, Zimbabwe

Soldiers and an armoured vehicle are pictured on patrol on a street in Harare, Zimbabwe. The Zimbabwean military appeared to have taken control of state institutions, saying that it was 'targeting criminals' in the government

Soldiers and an armoured vehicle are pictured on patrol on a street in Harare, Zimbabwe. The Zimbabwean military appeared to have taken control of state institutions, saying that it was 'targeting criminals' in the government

What next for Zimbabwe: The key players in a possible post-coup deal

Zimbabwe's army appears to be pushing for a quick and bloodless end to 93-year-old President Robert Mugabe's 37 years in power, to be replaced by a national unity government headed by his former deputy, Emmerson Mnangagwa.

According to political sources in Harare, Mugabe - now under house arrest in his lavish Harare home - was resisting pressure to stand down voluntarily.

Assuming he does, the following are likely to be key players in the expected settlement, according to political sources in Zimbabwe and South Africa and several years of Zimbabwean intelligence documents seen by Reuters:

EMMERSON MNANGAGWA (LIKELY PRESIDENT) - A lifelong Mugabe aide and 1970s liberation war veteran known as 'The Crocodile', Mnangagwa, 75, was in the pole position to succeed Mugabe until his progress was impeded by the dramatic political ascent of Mugabe's wife, Grace.

His sacking as vice-president this month cleared a path for Grace to the presidency and appears to have been the trigger for the army to step in to advance its preferred successor.

Deposed vice president Emmerson Mnangagwa (in the dark blue suit) has been pictured after returning from exile

Deposed vice president Emmerson Mnangagwa (in the dark blue suit) has been pictured after returning from exile

MORGAN TSVANGIRAI (LIKELY PRIME MINISTER) - A former union leader who founded the Movement for Democratic Change in the late 1990s, Tsvangirai, 65, has been Mugabe's main political rival for two decades.

He served as prime minister in a 2009-2013 unity government formed after violence-ridden elections in 2008. Tsvangirai has been undergoing treatment for cancer outside Zimbabwe but returned to Harare late on Wednesday.

A former union leader who founded the Movement for Democratic Change in the late 1990s, Morgan Tsvangirai, 65, has been Mugabe's main political rival for two decades

A former union leader who founded the Movement for Democratic Change in the late 1990s, Morgan Tsvangirai, 65, has been Mugabe's main political rival for two decades

CONSTANTINO CHIWENGA (POSSIBLE VICE-PRESIDENT) - As the military chief who pulled the trigger on the coup, Chiwenga is expected to win a senior role in the interim administration.

Chiwenga, 61, who has served in the armed forces since Zimbabwe's independence in 1980, was sanctioned by the United States and European Union although the latter removed him from its list of restricted individuals in 2014.

Tensions have been rising in the land-locked African country after Zimbabwe's head of the military, General Constantino Chiwenga (pictured), challenged Mugabe over his decision to sack the vice president Emmerson Mnangagwa

Tensions have been rising in the land-locked African country after Zimbabwe's head of the military, General Constantino Chiwenga (pictured), challenged Mugabe over his decision to sack the vice president Emmerson Mnangagwa

JOICE MUJURU (POSSIBLE VICE-PRESIDENT) - A liberation war veteran with the nom de guerre 'Spill Blood', Mujuru, 62, formed her own political party after being ousted as vice-president in 2014.

Her husband, Solomon Mujuru, a general who died in suspicious circumstances in 2011, was regarded as one of the most feared men in Zimbabwe and one of the few people capable of challenging Mugabe.

A liberation war veteran with the nom de guerre "Spill Blood", Joice Mujuru, 62, formed her own political party after being ousted as vice-president in 2014

A liberation war veteran with the nom de guerre 'Spill Blood', Joice Mujuru, 62, formed her own political party after being ousted as vice-president in 2014

DUMISO DABENGWA (POSSIBLE VICE-PRESIDENT) - Moscow-trained Dabengwa, 77, nicknamed 'The Black Russian', fought in the 1970s anti-colonial struggle for ZIPRA (Zimbabwe People's Liberation Army), a rival to Mugabe's ZANLA (Zimbabwe African National Liberation Army).

His incorporation in any unity government would ensure it represented both wings of the liberation struggle.

TENDAI BITI (POSSIBLE FINANCE MINISTER) - A lawyer by training, Biti, 51, won international plaudits as finance minister in the 2009-2013 government that stabilised the imploding economy.

He told Reuters he would be happy to reprise this role if Tsvangirai, his former political mentor, was on board.

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Zimbabweans are happier than they have been for more than 30 years now that dictator Robert Mugabe has been removed from power, the country's only independent MP has said.

He also blamed the unrest on the First Lady, 'Gucci' Grace Mugabe, accusing her of rudeness, profligate spending and seeking to usurp power.

Commenting after the army deposed Mr Mugabe and took control of the country, Temba Mliswa said:

'This is the biggest celebration since 1980 independence. The people of Zimbabwe have been oppressed. The democracy that was there has been violent.

'When the government is not sticking to its core values… from an economic point of view it creates problems.'

Mr Mliswa, who used to represent Mr Mugabe's ruling Zanu-PF party before going independent, slammed Mr Mugabe's wife Grace for trying to usurp power.

'The army cannot take orders from the First Lady. It takes them from the President. But orders are now coming in from the First Lady,' Mr Mliswa said.

'She has not been behaving the way we expect of a first lady. She has been insulting people, going around the world beating people. She has also been spending money extravagantly in South Africa when the country is suffering.'

Former vice-president Emmerson Mnangagwa (pictured in January with wife Auxilia), 75, a veteran of Zimbabwe's 1970s liberation wars who was sacked by Mugabe earlier this month, has returned from exile. The dismissal left Mugabe's wife Grace, 52, in prime position to succeed her husband as the next president - a succession strongly opposed by senior ranks in the military

Former vice-president Emmerson Mnangagwa (pictured in January with wife Auxilia), 75, a veteran of Zimbabwe's 1970s liberation wars who was sacked by Mugabe earlier this month, has returned from exile. The dismissal left Mugabe's wife Grace, 52, in prime position to succeed her husband as the next president - a succession strongly opposed by senior ranks in the military

The outspoken politician also called for Mr Mugabe to recognise that his reign is over and go quietly. 'When a process that put you in power is also convened to get you out of power, allow it to happen,' he said.

There was little evidence of jubilation on the streets of Harare, however, where tense residents went about their business under the shadow of tanks and armoured cars.

Most Zimbabweans have not known a time without Mugabe, who has been at the epicentre of public life since coming to power in 1980 on the country's independence from Britain.

The nation was left stunned after the ailing leader was confined to his residence late on Tuesday as soldiers took up positions at strategic points across Harare and senior officers commandeered state television.

The Southern African Development Community bloc, currently chaired by Zimbabwe's powerhouse neighbour South Africa, was to meet in Botswana yesterday to discuss the dramatic situation.

And though nothing has been heard from Mugabe or his wife Grace directly since the start of the army operation, many Zimbabweans are hopeful that the crisis will mark the beginning of a more prosperous future.

'Our economic situation has deteriorated every day - no employment, no jobs,' Tafadzwa Masango, a 35-year-old unemployed man, told AFP.

'We hope for a better Zimbabwe after the Mugabe era. We feel very happy. It is now his time to go.' 

Derek Matyszak, an analyst at the Pretoria-based Institute for Security Studies, said he expects Mugabe and the military are thrashing out a handover to a new head of state.

'I think Mugabe can still stay in the country. I think they would like to present him as a liberation icon and accord him due respect.

'The difficulty, and this has always been the difficulty for the Mugabe family, is guaranteeing Grace Mugabe's safety... on the demise of Robert.'

The international community will also be watching the next phase of the crisis closely.

On Wednesday the African Union issued an unusually terse statement that said the situation on the ground 'seems like a coup' and called on the military to pull back and respect the constitution.

Britain, Zimbabwe's colonial ruler until independence, called for calm and warned against handing power to an unelected leader.

'Nobody wants simply to see the transition from one unelected tyrant to the next,' said British foreign minister Boris Johnson.

Zimbabwe's army was set on a collision course with Mugabe last week when he abruptly fired his vice president Emmerson Mnangagwa - a lynchpin of the defence and security establishment.

Mnangagwa, 75, was previously one of Mugabe's most loyal lieutenants, having worked alongside him for decades.

But he fled to South Africa following his dismissal and published a scathing five-page rebuke of Mugabe's leadership and Grace's political ambition.

Army chief General Constantino Chiwenga gave an unprecedented press conference on Monday, flanked by dozens of officers, and warned Mugabe that he would intervene if the president continued to purge the ruling ZANU-PF party.

Mnangagwa has been embroiled in a long-running feud with Mugabe's wife Grace, 52.

Both were seen as leading contenders to replace Mugabe but Mnangagwa had the tacit support of the armed forces, which viewed Grace - a political novice - with derision.