
Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa is set to begin his annual leave on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, with his return to office scheduled for early February 2025.
This announcement was made by Acting Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Mr. George Charamba, who confirmed that President Mnangagwa will remain in the country during his leave, in line with tradition.
While President Mnangagwa is on leave, the leadership of the country will be managed on a rotational basis by the two Vice Presidents. Vice President Kembo Mohadi will assume the role of Acting President from December 31, 2024, until January 19, 2025. Following that, Vice President General (Retired) Dr. Constantino Chiwenga will take over as Acting President until President Mnangagwa resumes his duties.
Although on leave, President Mnangagwa will remain available to address pressing matters in his capacity as both State President and Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), ensuring continuity in governance during his absence. The arrangement marks a smooth transition of power within the government, with the Vice Presidents stepping in to handle day-to-day affairs.
Zimbabweans can expect to see the usual leadership structure in place during this period, with Vice Presidents Mohadi and Chiwenga stepping up to maintain national and regional responsibilities.
The transition reflects the country’s commitment to a stable leadership framework, even during the President’s temporary absence.