'Golden goodbye' payoff: Ousted Zimbabwean president, Mugabe to receive $10m
Former-Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe was recently forced to give up his throne for former-ally Emmerson Mnangagwa. While Mugabe's presidential dreams may have been shattered, he and his wife, Grace may receive upto $10 million under the terms of the resignation deal negotiated last week. The Mnangagwa government reportedly also agreed to grant them immunity from prosecution. Here's more on Mugabe's "golden goodbye package."
What are the terms of Mugabe's resignation deal?
According to sources, the deal was negotiated between Mugabe's representatives and senior politicians who allied with Mnangagwa. Under the agreement, Mugabe will receive a pay package not less than $10m. This includes a $5 million lump-sum amount and a salary worth $1,50,000 till death. His wife, nicknamed "Gucci Grace" for her extravagant lifestyle will continue to receive the payment after her husband's death.
Mugabe to receive immunity from prosecution?
The Mugabe regime has been characterized as one involving rampant corruption and human-rights abuses. However, it looks like he wouldn't have to answer for his alleged crimes. The resignation deal reportedly guarantees immunity from prosecution to Mugabe and his family. Mnangagwa has also spared Mugabe family's business interests and allowed him to continue residing in his sprawling Harare mansion known as the "Blue Roof."
Former Mugabe aides not immune from prosecution
The immunity does not extend to former Mugabe aides within the Zanu-PF party. Several leaders, including former-finance minister Ignatius Chombo have been detained by the army. Chombo recently appeared before a court to face corruption charges.
Opposition leaders criticize Mugabe's 'golden goodbye' package
Douglas Mwonzora, secretary general of the Movement for Democratic Change, Zimbabwe's main opposition party states that the deal is unconstitutional. He claims to not be aware of any such arrangements. "Under the constitution, Mugabe is a retired president and does not have immunity to criminal or civil wrongdoing committed while in office. The law doesn't authorize that," he adds.
