Emmerson Mnangagwa

Mnangagwa was appointed to Robert Mugabe's cabinet as Minister of State for National Security. In this role, he oversaw the intelligence services and was implicated in the Gukurahundi massacres in Matabeleland.

Mnangagwa was poisoned at a rally in Gwanda, allegedly by rivals within ZANU-PF. He was evacuated to South Africa for treatment. This event deepened the factional struggle within the ruling party between Mnangagwa and Grace Mugabe.

President Robert Mugabe dismissed Mnangagwa as Vice President, citing disloyalty. This triggered a military intervention that led to Mugabe's resignation. Mnangagwa returned from exile to assume the presidency.

Following Mugabe's resignation, Mnangagwa was sworn in as President of Zimbabwe. He promised economic recovery, democratic reforms, and re-engagement with the international community after years of isolation.

Mnangagwa won the first post-Mugabe presidential election, defeating Nelson Chamisa of the MDC. The election was marred by allegations of fraud, violence, and a military crackdown on protesters that killed six people.