Mohadi airlifted from Zanu PF conference after becoming ill

CHINHOYI – Vice President Kembo Mohadi was taken ill and airlifted to Harare after abruptly leaving the Zanu PF conference in Chinhoyi on Friday, the presidency said.

Mohadi, who turns 77 on November 15, had taken his seat at the top table to the left of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, with fellow Vice President Constantino Chiwenga seated on the president’s right.

Mashonaland West provincial minister Marian Chombo was at the rostrum welcoming guests when a commotion broke out at the top table. Chiwenga was seen supporting Mohadi with his arm as the two disappeared backstage.

Presidency spokesman George Charamba later said Mohadi had become “indisposed” and was taken to Harare for treatment.

“Vice President KCD Mohadi was taken ill soon after the commencement of proceedings at the conference,” Charamba said.

“He was helped off the top table by his counterpart, Vice President Chiwenga. He was then airlifted to the Trauma Centre in Harare, where his condition was stabilised.

“President Mnangagwa was kept informed all the time.”

Mohadi has had at least two other public episodes in which he appeared to become light-headed.

In June 2024, he abandoned a public lecture at the University of Zimbabwe after suddenly declaring, “I can’t, I can’t”, before helped off the stage.

Later that month, while officiating at Manama High School, his voice suddenly trailed off as aides rushed to his side.

“I’m not sick, but I’m getting old. That’s why I drink a lot of water,” he later explained.

The Zanu PF conference ends on Saturday. _*ZimLive*_