Please go rest: Citizens call on VP Mohadi to retire after he failed to finish a public lecture and looked disoriented

People are calling for VP Kembo Mohadi to retire after he recently got disoriented and failed to finish a public lecture at the University of Zimbabwe.

The vice president was presenting a lecture on “Liberation Movements and African Unity: Why Resilience Matters for Sustained Transformative Possibilities.”

His voice grew fainter as he delivered his speech, and he appeared to be losing energy. His voice faltered as he made awkward pauses between sentences, making it difficult for people to follow his train of thought.

After a long struggle, VP Mohadi faintly whispered, “I can’t, I can’t.”

He stepped back, and his security aides inched closer to help him sit on his chair. Afterwards, Central Intelligence Organisation operatives at the event ordered all journalists in attendance to stop filming or taking pictures of Mohadi.

A witness said:

“He couldn’t stand, so they helped him to a chair. He spoke briefly after, and after animated backstage discussions, his presentation was cut short.”

A ZANU PF official told ZimLive:

“He was reading his speech, and then he asked for water. He had to be helped to sit down. He then continued his speech while seated. He did not necessarily collapse. In essence, he broke the collapse.”

This is not the first time the 74-year-old has had a public health scare. In October 2023, VP Mohadi collapsed during a campaign rally. He was subsequently airlifted for medical treatment as CIOs ordered journalists to delete all pictures and videos of the incident.

“Just Go Rest”

Zimbos on social media called on the vice president to retire as his health is crumbling.

Shami:

“Koo kunozorora kumusha nhai.”

“The man is old, and why doesn’t he live the job for the younger people.”

Mackey:

“He is too tall and any discomfort on his body makes it hard for his big frame to stand. I feel for him. That “I can’t, I can’t …” was that of someone who has given up. May he be well soon 🙏🏾”

Sithole:

“Why can’t these guys retire and enjoy time with their loved ones? This is sad!!!”