Zimbabwe: Military Spokesman Denies Military Takeover In Televised Statement

In a televised speech, a spokesman from the Zimbabwean military said that unrest in the capital city is "not a military takeover" but an attempt to remove criminal elements from the government, AFP reported Nov. 15. The speech comes amid rumors that a coup is underway against long-time President Robert Mugabe. Soldiers have reportedly seized the headquarters of Zimbabwe's national television station, and heavy gunfire is being reported in parts of the capital city, BBC reported. Defense Minister Gen. Constantino Chiwenga warned yesterday that there would be retaliation for Mugabe's removal of Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who was considered the leader's most likely successor. Today, Chiwenga said in a statement said that Mugabe and his family are safe.