Mugabe finally goes

The Herald reports:

Zimbabwe’s Robert Mugabe resigned as president after 37 years in power, as parliament began impeachment proceedings against him.

“My decision to resign is voluntary on my part and arises from my concern for the welfare of the people of Zimbabwe and my desire for a smooth, non-violent transfer of power,” said Mugabe in his letter which was read out in parliament, sparking cheers and dancing.

Cars began honking horns and people cheered in the streets, as the news spread like wildfire across the capital, Harare.

The best way to judge what the people think of a dictator is how they react when he leaves office.

Mugabe once had some popular support, but had for a long time been a hated despot.

It seems inevitable that Emmerson Mnangagwa will become President. He won’t be worse than Mugabe, but he may not be a lot better. Time will tell.