Mnangagwa Breaks Silence on Belarus Trip: A King Does Not Announce His Movements
Mnangagwa dismisses speculation over his Belarus trip, comparing his leadership style to a traditional chief who moves without public announcements, amid social media debate on his sudden absence.
Dumisani Ndlovu 
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has responded to speculation surrounding his sudden midweek trip to Belarus, dismissing claims that he had “disappeared” and insisting that he does not announce his movements publicly.
Speaking to ZBC journalist Reuben Barwe on Monday after returning to Zimbabwe, President Mnangagwa said his leadership style is comparable to that of a traditional chief who moves when necessary without informing everyone beforehand.
“When I go out, I do not go around villages announcing that I am leaving. A chief only moves when the time to move has come,” Mnangagwa said in Shona.
The President appeared unfazed by the public debate that followed his abrupt departure from the country on Wednesday, rejecting suggestions that his absence had been mysterious.
Mnangagwa’s remarks come after widespread speculation on social media over his whereabouts during the trip to Belarus.
By comparing himself to a traditional leader, the President stressed that some state matters and official movements are handled according to timing and necessity rather than public expectation.
