Robert Mugabe's resignation came after widespread unrest and mounting pressure from various factions within Zimbabwe, including his own party, ZANU-PF. The military had intervened just days prior to his resignation, asserting that they were targeting 'criminals' around the president. This military move was widely viewed as a soft coup, aimed at forcing Mugabe to step down after years of mismanagement, corruption, and human rights abuses. Many had anticipated this action as the tipping point due to increasing public dissent that had manifested through protests and calls for his resignation amid a crumbling economy. Mugabe, who had effectively ruled Zimbabwe since its independence in 1980, built a legacy filled with both significant achievements and profound controversies, including land reform policies that led to economic decline and international isolation.

On November 19, 2017, his party had stripped him of the presidency, and mass protests erupted celebrating this power shift. Determined to maintain order, the military played a crucial role in the proceedings as citizens eagerly awaited an end to his long tenure. His resignation marked a pivotal moment not just for Zimbabwe, but for the southern African region, reflecting widespread discontent with long-standing leadership in various countries. In his final address, Mugabe reiterated his commitment to the country but acknowledged the changing tides of politics, emphasizing his decision to leave as rooted in a desire for national peace and stability. Significantly, his exit heralded hopes for political change and economic recovery among many citizens.