They chose a private farewell for one of Africa’s most divisive figures after a weeks-long dispute with the administration that forced him from power.
To cries of approval, the priest said: “This man lives forever,” and added: “This gathering is a paradox. We are mourning at the same time we are celebrating because this man lived his life in a manner that many of us would want to emulate.”
Later, standing by the coffin, he prayed: “God, take pity on him. Don’t judge him harshly.”
Mr Mugabe died this month in Singapore aged 95 after leading Zimbabwe for nearly four decades before being pushed into a shocking resignation as thousands danced in the streets.
His coffin, draped in the country’s flag, was carried into a tent for the service in Zvimba by military pallbearers as his black-veiled wife Grace looked on.
The tent displayed a photo of Mr Mugabe holding up his fist in a classic gesture of defiance, while a floral arrangement in front of the casket spelled “Dad.”
Many mourners wore T-shirts saying “Liberator” and “Torch bearer”.
Some of Mr Mugabe’s political rivals, including opposition figures who were routinely arrested or harassed during his 37-year rule, attended the service while long-time colleagues did not.
Notably absent were senior officials from the ruling party that he led for more than four decades, including during the fight for liberation.
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