Deputy Prime Minister of Zimbabwe facts for kids
The Deputy Prime Minister was an important political job in Zimbabwe. This position existed at two different times in Zimbabwe's history.
The last time this role was created was in 2008. This happened because of special talks between different political groups. These talks aimed to bring peace and stability to the country. As part of this agreement, two people were chosen to be Deputy Prime Ministers. They were Arthur Mutambara and Thokozani Khuphe. They worked alongside the Prime Minister, Morgan Tsvangirai. The position of Deputy Prime Minister no longer exists in Zimbabwe today.
Contents
Understanding the Role of Deputy Prime Minister
A Deputy Prime Minister is like a second-in-command to the Prime Minister. Their main job is to help the Prime Minister run the country. They might take on some of the Prime Minister's duties. They also step in if the Prime Minister is not available. This role helps share the big responsibilities of leading a nation.
People Who Served as Deputy Prime Minister
Zimbabwe has had a few people hold the job of Deputy Prime Minister. Each person served during important times in the country's history.
| Image | Name | Prime Minister They Served | Started Office | Left Office |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Simon Muzenda | Robert Mugabe | 18 April 1980 | 22 December 1987 |
 |
Arthur Mutambara | Morgan Tsvangirai | 11 February 2009 | 11 September 2013 |
 |
Thokozani Khuphe | 13 August 2013 |
Simon Muzenda: The First Deputy Prime Minister
Simon Muzenda was the very first person to hold the title of Deputy Prime Minister in Zimbabwe. He started his role on April 18, 1980. This was the same day Zimbabwe gained its independence. He served under Prime Minister Robert Mugabe. Muzenda held this important position for many years. He left office on December 22, 1987.
Deputy Prime Ministers from 2009 to 2013
The role of Deputy Prime Minister was brought back in 2009. This happened after the political talks in 2008. Two people were appointed to share this role. They were Arthur Mutambara and Thokozani Khuphe. They both started their terms on February 11, 2009. They served under Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai.
Arthur Mutambara's Role
Arthur Mutambara was one of the two Deputy Prime Ministers. He was a leader from a part of the MDC political party. He worked to help the government function smoothly. His term ended on September 11, 2013.
Thokozani Khuphe's Role
Thokozani Khuphe was the other Deputy Prime Minister. She was a member of Prime Minister Tsvangirai's group within the MDC party. She also played a key part in the government. Her time as Deputy Prime Minister ended on August 13, 2013.
The End of the Position
The position of Deputy Prime Minister was eventually removed again. This happened in 2013. Since then, Zimbabwe has not had a Deputy Prime Minister. The country's political structure changed. The role is now part of Zimbabwe's past political history.
See also
- Prime Minister of Zimbabwe
- Prime Minister of Zimbabwe Rhodesia
- Deputy Prime Minister of Rhodesia
