Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe’s refusal to publicly resign is stalling plans by the military to swiftly install a transitional government after seizing power on Wednesday, two people familiar with the situation said. Father Fidelis Mukonori, a prominent catholic priest, is mediating talks with Mugabe, according to the people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity. Mugabe’s wife Grace, 52, said days later that she was prepared to succeed her husband. South Africa’s President Jacob Zuma said Mugabe told him by phone on Wednesday that he was being confined to his home but was otherwise fine. Economic DeclineThe police and secret service, where Mugabe has allies, were excluded from the plans of leaders of the 35,000-member military, the people said.

Source: National Post November 16, 2017 15:53 UTC