While the army has denied a coup has taken place, South African President Jacob Zuma has claimed that President Robert Mugabe is under house arrest in the capital Harare and it’s believed his wife has fled the country.

World Vision’s National Director in the country, Emmanuel Isch told Premier that the charity is “praying for wise decisions to be made by leadership”.

Speaking during News Hour, Isch said: “People are very resilient but at the same time there are issues that need to be addressed in terms of the economy, social issues and so on.

“But we’re hopeful that there will be some solid changes and good decisions made to really allow the country to move forward.”

The foreign secretary has also voiced his concerns about the ongoing situation in the Southern African nation.

Boris Johnson told the House of Commons that the situation is “fluid” and said the UK is appealing to everyone in Zimbabwe to refrain from violence.

He said the Foreign Office and British Embassy are working to keep around 20 thousand British nationals safe.

On Tuesday evening, at least three explosions were heard in the capital and military vehicles were seen in the streets.

Troops on Wednesday were patrolling Harare, after they seized state TV and said they were targeting “criminals”.

BBC correspondents have reported that the move may be a bid to replace Mr Mugabe with his sacked deputy,…

Houston, who said in August a “yes” vote would have wide-reaching ramifications, has encouraged Australians to “move forward in unity and love, viewing one another without labels”.

He said in the statement released on Wednesday: “I believe every person is created by God with a plan and purpose, and the focus of Hillsong Church has always been – and will always be – to point people to Jesus.

“As we move forward as a nation and put what has been at times a divisive debate behind us, my prayer is that we replace anger, criticism, hatred and intolerance with love, understanding, acceptance and kindness.”

However, Houston maintained that his personal belief on the biblical definition of marriage will not change and urged the government to protect churches who do not agree with gay marriage.

He added: “The work of our church will continue as usual as it does in many parts of the world where same-sex marriage is legal.

“It is vital however, that legislation protects the rights of churches, pastors and others to hold contrary beliefs based on the traditional teachings of scripture.

“Freedom of religion is a fundamental part of a democratic society and must be upheld. Any attempt to force Christians to compromise their faith would be wrong.”

He reminded Christians that “Jesus taught us that holding firm to our convictions, and respecting and appreciating other people who hold different views, are not mutually exclusive”.