Mugabe keep Zimbabweans in suspense

President Robert Mugabe has not resigned but acknowledged issues drawn to his attention by the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) command element.

In a state of the nation address broadcast live on ZBC TV this evening, President Mugabe said this follows an operation mounted by the ZDF, which was triggered by the state of affairs in the country and in the ruling Zanu PF party.

He said the issues drawn to his attention are out of deep concern for the nation.

The President also said concerns from citizens deserve attention and a collective process to return everything to normal well into the future will be done.
He commended the ZDF for maintaining peace, law and order and allowing expressing of grievances with a high level of dignity.

Mugabe said the past events did not amount to a threat or challenge to his authority as the ZDF remained respectful with all arms of the state functional.

He also said problems in the ruling Zanu PF were caused by lack of unity which was affecting the economy, conflicting messages from the government and Zanu PF party, adding that controversy has to stop as the government is committed to improving material resources for the people.

Mugabe said he will preside over the Zanu PF Extra-Ordinary Congress in December despite the party's Special Central Committee recalling him in this Sunday's session.

The President also acknowledged that the country's independence was won after a protracted struggle whose goals must drive the future.