Zimbabwe: Mugabe and military talks continue amid political limbo

Senior church leaders and South African envoys also involved in mediation efforts, with Mugabe under house arrest after military takeover

Jason Burke Africa correspondent and Alex Maher in Harare
Thursday 16 November 2017 13.43 GMT

Zimbabwe remains in political limbo a day-and-a-half after the military takeover that appears to have put an end to Robert Mugabe’s 37-year grip on power.

As talks between Mugabe - who has been confined to his residence in Harare by the army, and senior military officers – entered a second day, there were reports that he is resisting pressure to resign as president. A Catholic priest close to the veteran leader is involved in mediation efforts.

The Zimbabwean capital was tense but calm amid the political uncertainty. Troops have secured the airport, government offices, parliament and other key sites. The rest of the country has remained peaceful. The takeover has been cautiously welcomed by many Zimbabweans.

Regional power South Africa appears to be backing the takeover, and has sent ministers to Harare to help with negotiations to form a new government and decide the terms of Mugabe’s resignation.

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