Mnangagwa's lavish 81st birthday celebration

Zimbabwe's first lady, Auxillia Mnangagwa, hosted a lavish birthday celebration for her husband, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, at State House in Harare on Friday. The event marked Mnangagwa's 81st birthday and was attended by family members, government officials, and dignitaries. The president received various gifts, including paintings, an antique Saint Petersburg Imperial porcelain plate, and an all-expenses-paid fishing trip from his sons.

Mnangagwa's daughters-in-law presented him with a three-tier cake, each tier symbolizing different aspects of his life, such as his farm, special moments, and determination to overcome trials and tribulations. Attendees, elegantly dressed for the occasion, sang and danced to Stevie Wonder's "Happy Birthday" while extending their well-wishes to the president.

During the celebration, Mnangagwa expressed feeling "humbled" and thanked those in attendance for their support. Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko also sent a birthday message praising Mnangagwa's political experience and commitment to his country's development.

Earlier in the day, Mnangagwa addressed the politburo and party members at another birthday event held at Zanu-PF headquarters in Harare. He characterized Zimbabwe's recent elections as a "resounding victory" for the party, emphasizing the peaceful conduct of the elections and the large turnouts at rallies. Mnangagwa noted that Zanu-PF was gaining strength, while its detractors grew increasingly frustrated.

Critics argue that Mnangagwa's extravagant birthday celebration reflects a disconnect from the realities of a country grappling with political and economic crises.