Emmerson Mnangagwa: “The Crocodile”

1942: Born in Zvishavane, mining town in then British colony of Southern Rhodesia

1960s: Joins fight against white minority rule, receiving military training in Egypt and China. Nicknamed “the crocodile” due to political shrewdness and ruthlessness

1965: Tortured by Rhodesian forces after his “crocodile gang” blows up train. Jailed for 10 years with other nationalists including Robert Mugabe

1975: Starts practising law after completing degree in Zambia

1977: Named Mugabe’s assistant, heading both military and civil divisions of Zanu-PF party

1979-80: Accompanies Mugabe to London for talks that lead to birth of independent Zimbabwe

1983: As spymaster, he oversees security services during brutal campaign by North Korean-trained Fifth Army brigade against supporters of Mugabe rival Joshua Nkomo.
Mnangagwa denies any role in massacres in Matabeleland that kill thousands of civilians

2001: Named in UN investigation into exploitation of mineral resources in Congo for which he is reputed to have amassed considerable fortune

2008: Accused of masterminding deadly attacks on opposition supporters of Morgan Tsvangirai during presidential election

Nov 2017: Sacked as vice- president in move seen as clearing path for Mugabe’s wife,
Grace, to presidency. Flees to South Africa

Mugabe resigns days after military takes control. Mnangagwa becomes president

Sources: AP, BBC, FT Pictures: Getty Images, Newscom © GRAPHIC NEWS