Robert and Grace Mugabe in December at the People's Congress of the ruling Zanu-PF party. Photo: AFP
Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe said he's still in charge of the southern African nation and that his wife Grace isn't the "power behind the throne," the Chronicle newspaper reported.
Speaking in an interview to mark his 91st birthday on February 21 with the state-broadcaster, ZBC, Mr Mugabe denied that he was behind the rise of Grace, 49, to head the Women's League in the ruling Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front, according to the Chronicle.
"I've never sanctioned anyone, not even my sisters," Mr Mugabe said in the interview. "I will not push anyone. She came to me and said the women want me to lead them and I said it's up to you."
A man cycles beneath a year-old billboard wishing Mr Mugabe a happy 90th birthday in Harare. Photo: AP
A one-time secretary to the President who was married to a former air force pilot and Beijing-based diplomat, Grace Marufu wedded Mr Mugabe in 1996. Zimbabweans who criticise what they describe as her extravagant lifestyle have come up with names such as "Gucci Grace" and "Dis Grace" for Grace Mugabe.
Zimbabwe, which Mr Mugabe has ruled since independence from Britain in 1980, has the world's second-largest chrome and platinum reserves, as well as gold, diamonds and iron ore. Anglo American Platinum, Impala Platinum and Rio Tinto are among companies mining in the country.
Bloomberg