Tsvangirai says “I have cancer of the colon” but…..

Movement for Democratic Change leader Morgan Tsvangirai today disclosed that he had cancer of the colon but that will not deter him from confronting the national crisis that Zimbabwe is facing.

He said he was referred by his Zimbabwean doctors to South Africa on 8 May where a diagnosis revealed that he was suffering from cancer of the colon.

He underwent an operation that was very successful and is now receiving chemotherapy treatment which began this week.

“As a leader and a public figure, I have taken a decision to make public my condition. It is my firm belief that the health of national leaders, including politicians, should not be a subject of national speculation and uncertainty…

“This health condition is unfortunate but can be faced by anyone. I intend to confront this development with the determination to overcome it. In the meantime, let us remain focused in confronting the national crisis we face,” he said.

There was speculation in the state-controlled media at the weekend that jockeying to succeed Tsvangirai had already started because of his deteriorating health.

Full statement:

Monday, 27 June 2016

President Morgan Tsvangirai speaks on his health

On the 8th of May 2016, my Zimbabwean doctors referred me to South Africa where a further diagnosis revealed that I am suffering from cancer of the colon. Following the diagnosis last month, I underwent an operation last month that was very successful.

However, a diagnosis of cancer is the first of several medical procedures that include treatment through chemotherapy, which treatment I began this week. As a leader and a public figure, I have taken a decision to make public my condition. It is my firm belief that the health of national leaders, including politicians, should not be a subject of national speculation and uncertainty.

I want to thank my wife Elizabeth for her love and caring, my family, MDC members and the broader Zimbabwean society for their prayers and support on this journey.

This health condition is unfortunate but can be faced by anyone. I intend to confront this development with the determination to overcome it. In the meantime, let us remain focused in confronting the national crisis we face.

God bless you all.

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