Robert Mugabe, Zimbabwe’s first post-independence leader, has died at the age of 95, the BBC reported, citing his family.

The report said he had died after battling ill health.

Mugabe was ousted from power in a military coup in November 2017, ending his three-decade reign.

Confirming Mugabe’s death on Twitter, Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, wrote:

It is with the utmost sadness that I announce the passing on of Zimbabwe’s founding father and former President, Cde Robert Mugabe.

Cde Mugabe was an icon of liberation, a pan-Africanist who dedicated his life to the emancipation and empowerment of his people. His contribution to the history of our nation and continent will never be forgotten. May his soul rest in eternal peac.

 

It is with the utmost sadness that I announce the passing on of Zimbabwe’s founding father and former President, Cde Robert Mugabe (1/2)

— President of Zimbabwe (@edmnangagwa) September 6, 2019