Zimbabwe’s President Robert Mugabe has sacked his long-time vice-president and several of her allies, according to government sources.<br /><br /> Joice Mujuru was dismissed amid accusations of corruption and allegations she was plotting to kill the president. Mugabe had earlier publically denounced her as the leader of a ‘treacherous cabal’.<br /><br /> Mujuru has dismissed the accusations.<br /><br /> Until recently, Mugabe’s former deputy was seen as the most-likely successor to the presidency, and someone who could have helped to restore ties with the West.<br /><br /> First Lady Grace Mugabe now appears to be a strong contender to take over if the head of state retires or dies. The way could also have been cleared for Justice Minister and staunch Mugabe supporter Emmerson Mnangagwa – nicknamed ‘The Crocodile’ – to take over.
