By Political Reporter- President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Friday, appeared visibly aged and frail during his attendance at the inauguration of Botswana’s new President, Duma Boko, raising speculation of pressure and embarrassment he faced.
Sharp-eyed onlookers quickly noted his thinning hair and weary expression, sparking whispers both at the event and across social media.
Observers were struck by Mnangagwa’s subdued demeanour, a stark contrast to his usual assertive image.
His visibly ageing appearance, with wispy, greying hair, had attendees wondering if the weight of Zimbabwe’s political turmoil was taking a toll on him.
The timing was particularly poignant, as Mnangagwa had publicly supported the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) — which ultimately lost — over the opposition-led Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), now led by President Boko.
The event itself was a notable one, attended by several regional leaders, including Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema and South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
Adding to the intrigue was the presence of prominent opposition figures from across the region, including Zimbabwe’s own Nelson Chamisa, South Africa’s Julius Malema, and Musi Maimane.
The inclusion of these opposition leaders in such a high-profile inauguration underscored shifting dynamics in regional politics, as emerging leaders like Boko and Hichilema increasingly signal solidarity with opposition movements across Southern Africa.
Mnangagwa’s appearance at the event, alongside this coalition of opposition figures, left him looking isolated and, in the eyes of many, vulnerable.
Speculation grew as he left Botswana shortly after the ceremony without engaging directly with 54-year-old President Boko.
His swift departure back to Zimbabwe only fueled rumours of discomfort and embarrassment.
While Mnangagwa attended in his capacity as Zimbabwe’s head of state and current SADC chairman, his visible frailty and lack of interaction with Boko did not go unnoticed.
Some saw his appearance as symbolic of a leader under pressure, facing rising dissent at home and the emergence of a new political order in the region — one not rooted in the liberation movements of old.
For many Zimbabweans, the image of Mnangagwa at this inauguration — visibly aged and seemingly burdened — encapsulates the challenges facing his administration, as Zimbabwe confronts political and economic turmoil under his rule.