by SAVIOUS KWINIKA

JOHANNESBURG  – MESSAGES of solidarity with ailing Zimbabwean Vice President, Emmerson Mnagangwa are pouring in as he recovers in Johannesburg from suspected food poisoning.

 Mnangagwa (74) is hospitalised in the neighbouring country following an alleged attempt on his life as the race to succeed President Robert Mugabe takes a gruesome turn.

Sources at the hospital Mnangagwa where is recuperating said his health had significantly improved.

“He is responding to treatment although he is not 100 percent fully recovered. Doctors are doing their best,” said an official at the

hospital, on condition of anonymity.

On Thursday, CAJ News Africa witnessed South African-based Zimbabwean businesspeople visiting at the hospital.

 Local investors with business interest in Zimbabwe also paid solidarity visits.

 “We will keep visiting him everyday until he recovers. We have not seen him personally, but have been told he is responding well to

treatment. We are excited,” said a businessman.

Another said, “As local business people with interest in doing business in Zimbabwe, we would always be praying and wishing him well.”

 Former spokesperson for the opposition National People’s Party (NPP), Jealousy Mawarire also called to inquire about Mnangagwa’s situation.

 “People are praying for him here (Zimbabwe),” he said in a WhatsApp message.

 Well-wishers have been praying for Mnangagwa’s recovery.

 Mnangagwa is facing hostility from factions in the party opposed to his ascension to the presidency.

  – Guardian