Mugabe's lavish birthday party faces criticism amid drought in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwean president, Robert Mugabe’s extravagant birthday plans drew harsh criticism as the country grapples with widespread drought and hunger.

#Zimbabwe: “a beleaguered nation is asked to empty its pockets and pay for Robert #Mugabe’s birthday party.” https://t.co/vpOmqXF9b1 ejcs

— Jeffrey Smith (Smith_JeffreyT) February 21, 2016

The President marked his 92nd birthday on Sunday with private celebrations, while public celebrations will be held on February 27 in the eastern city of Masvingo, a stronghold of Mugabe’s ZANU-PF party.

Though political leaders would not divulge the budget for this year’s party, in previous years the event has cost up to $1 million for transportation, accommodation and food for thousands of guests.

Ruling party politicians and businesspeople paid from $5,000 to $100,000 for a table of 10 at a dinner on Friday night to raise funds for the birthday festivities.

According to Tongai Kasukuwere, a member of the ruling Zanu-PF party’s youth wing and the event organiser, the dinner was sold out.

“To be able to mobilise resources to honour one of Africa’s finest icons during such a difficult time proves our resilience,” he added.

The southern Africa country is currently struggling with a drought that has left more than 3 million people reliant on food aid.