Zimbabwe’s FM dies of COVID-19; Shah Mahmood Qureshi sends condolences

Zimbabwe’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Sibusiso Moyo has succumbed to the deadly Coronavirus, the government announced on Wednesday.

Moyo has gained prominence in 2017 as the military general who announced the coup against then-President Robert Mugabe on television.

“The Nation will be kept apprised of further developments regarding this untimely demise of the late Minister, himself a decorated soldier and freedom fighter,” said Charamba in a statement.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa paid tribute to Moyo, saying Zimbabwe had lost “a devoted public servant and a true hero.”

Moyo, 61, previously little known to the public, became the face of the coup when he announced the military had placed Mugabe under house arrest as armoured vehicles rolled into the capital, Harare.

The coup ended Mugabe’s 37-year rule in Zimbabwe. Mugabe died in September 2019.

Moyo was appointed foreign affairs minister after President Emmerson Mnangagwa took power with military backing.

However, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi expresses deppest condolences on the sad demise of Sibusiso Moyo.

Taking to Twitter, Qureshi wrote, “Sincere condolences to the family, people and government of Zimbabwe on the passing of Foreign Minister Sibusiso Moyo. Our prayers are with you.”

Sincere condolences to the family, people and government of Zimbabwe on the passing of Foreign Minister Sibusiso Moyo. Our prayers are with you. @edmnangagwa

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— Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) January 20, 2021