A Zimbabwe minister, who became known for his involvement in a November 2017 military coup that toppled former President Robert Mugabe, has died.
As an army general Sibusiso Moyo, appeared on national television early Nov. 15, 2017, saying the military was "pursuing criminals" around Mugabe, not to overthrow him. After six days of military pressure and street protests, Mugabe resigned.
Moyo, appointed foreign affairs minister in the post-coup cabinet, died Wednesday from a COVID-19 related illness.
"It is with a heavy heart that I announce Foreign Minister Dr. S. B. Moyo has died," President Mnangagwa tweeted.
"Zimbabwe has lost a devoted public servant and a true hero, and I have lost a friend. He fought his entire life so that Zimbabwe could be free. May he rest in peace."
Moyo becomes the third minister to die from a virus-related illness since the outbreak of the disease in Zimbabwe in March.
Agriculture minister, a former air force commander was the first to die in July. He was followed by Ellen Gwaradzimba, a provincial affairs minister Jan. 15.
Zimbabwe is experiencing an increase in COVID-19 infections and deaths since the festive season.
Fifty-two people died Tuesday, a day after 60, the highest death toll since March, succumbed to the disease.
In all, 28 675 infections had been recorded by Tuesday and 825 deaths.
