After 37 years in power, Robert Mugabe has called it quits, after mounting pressure from his own party, the military, and the public. The news of his resignation ignited massive celebrations on the streets.

CGTN’s Farai Mwakutuya reports from Zimbabwe’s capital city, Harare.

The day began with yet another protest. People gathered outside the country’s parliament where MPs were initiating impeachment proceedings against Robert Mugabe.

The 93-year-old ruler of Zimbabwe for 37 years had refused to give in to demands for his resignation. Mounting pressure, the loss of his party support and the prospect of impeachment eventually proved too much to bear.

Zimbabwe’s Parliament Speaker read out Mugabe’s letter of resignation on Tuesday:

“I, Robert Gabriel Mugabe in terms of section 96, sub section 1 of the constitution of Zimbabwe, hereby formerly tender my resignation as the president of the republic of Zimbabwe, with immediate effect,” said Jacob Mudenda, speaker of Zimbabwe’s Parliament.

The announcement sparked wild scenes of celebration. Zimbabwens shared their joy over Mugabe stepping down.

“I was born in 1980. Mugabe was in power up to today three generation, Mugabe has been in power, everyone has been suffering because of Mugabe and nothing is moving and nothing has been done. Today is marks the new independence,” said one Zimbabwen.

“On behalf of Zimbabwe I am so happy we are liberated I am so happy for our children, for our generation. I believe this is the new beginning.”

Former Vice President, Emmerson Mnangagwa, has been nominated by the ruling ZANU PF party to replace Mugabe.

Nii Akuetteh discusses Mugabe’s resignation as Zimbabwen President

To discuss today’s events and what the future might look like for Zimbabwe, CGTN’s Mike Walter spoke with Nii Akuetteh of the African Immigrant Caucus discusses Mugabe’s resignation as Zimbabwen President.