Robert Mugabe, the President of Zimbabwe who held onto power for almost 40 years, has resigned.
The announcement was made in Parliament by speaker Jacob Mudenda who quoted a letter from Mr Mugabe saying the decision was voluntary and that Mugabe had made it to allow a smooth transition of power.
The surprise announcement halted an impeachment hearing that had begun against him in Parliament.
Lawmakers roared in jubilation and people have begun celebrating in the streets.
Mugabe had previously refused to resign despite last week's military takeover and days of protests.
The letter did not mention who would take over; however, the constitution says it should be the current vice-president, Phelekezela Mphoko, a supporter of Grace Mugabe, Mr Mugabe's wife.
Mr Mudenda said moves were under way to ensure a new leader could take over by late on Wednesday.
In reacting to the news - UK Prime Minister Theresa May said Mr Mugabe's resignation "provides Zimbabwe with an opportunity to forge a new path free of the oppression that characterised his rule".
She said that Britain, "as Zimbabwe's oldest friend", will do all it can to support free and fair elections and the rebuilding of the Zimbabwean economy.
All feeds
