Zimbabwean Dictator Emmerson Mnangagwa has received criticism for his upcoming attendance at the coronation of King Charles III, with some labeling it as a “slap in the face” to Zimbabweans fighting for democracy.
Tarisai Masimba, the editor-in-chief of Masimba Media, took to Twitter to express his disapproval of Mnangagwa’s attendance. Masimba accused the President of betraying the trust of the Zimbabwean people by “bowing down to a tyrant” while disregarding the suffering of those he claims to govern.
Masimba’s sentiments were echoed by many other Twitter users who used the hashtags #MnangagwaOut and #ZimbabweanLivesMatter to express their outrage.
Mnangagwa’s spokesman, George Charamba, defended the President’s attendance, saying that he will be an important guest at the coronation and that his presence will be part of the country’s re-engagement and engagement drive.
However, many Twitter users criticized Charamba’s statement, with some accusing Mnangagwa of rejoicing at the invitation and disregarding the atrocities that his regime has committed.
Zimbabwe has a history of political turmoil and violence, with Mnangagwa’s political party, Zanu-PF, accused of enacting the massacre of opposition members and accusing them of being British sympathizers.
As the coronation approaches, it remains to be seen how the international community will respond to Mnangagwa’s attendance and whether there will be any repercussions for his actions.