Robert Mugabe, the man who ruled Zimbabwe for 37 years has died at 95

Robert Mugabe, the former Zimbabwe president, dies at 95, after battling ill health.
He died at a Singapore hospital where he was receiving treatment, according to reports.
Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, confirmed the report Friday morning.

Robert Mugabe, the former Zimbabwe president, has died at the age of 95, after battling ill health.

According to reports, Mugabe died at an undisclosed hospital in Singapore where he was receiving treatment.

Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe regularly closes his eyes at public appearances, such as at this 2009 event in Harare AFP

Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, confirmed the news in a series of tweets on Friday morning.

"It is with the utmost sadness that I announce the passing on of Zimbabwe's founding father and former President, Cde Robert Mugabe.

"Cde Mugabe was an icon of liberation, a pan-Africanist who dedicated his life to the emancipation and empowerment of his people. His contribution to the history of our nation and continent will never be forgotten. May his soul rest in eternal peace," President Mnangagwa.

His life

Mugabe was born on February 21, 1924. He was a columnist and nationalist to the core.

Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe delivers his state of the nation address to the country's parliament in Harare, August 25, 2015. REUTERS/Philimon Bulawayo Reuters

His political career

He ruled Zimbabwe from 1987 to 2017. Before that, he was Prime Minister, the head of government, after being elected in 1980.