Morgan Tsvangirai, popular Zimbabwean opposition leader who fought Robert Mugabe’s regime for many years, has died at the age of 65 after battling with cancer, a party official said.

His death on Wednesday night throws uncertainty over his Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) party less than three months after the army ousted his 93-year-old foe from the presidency.

Mr Tsvangirai, who founded the MDC in 1999, was among the most prominent critics of Mugabe, the long-time authoritarian leader who was ousted from power in November.

“It is sad for me to announce that we have lost our icon and fighter for democracy,” Elias Mudzuri, one of the vice-presidents of the MDC, said on Twitter.

Tsvangirai’s death was confirmed to The Telegraph by a family member.

Mugabe’s government detained him on numerous occasions over his vocal criticism of the regime.

Security forces swooped on Mr Tsvangirai in 1989 after he bluntly warned about the rising tide of political repression in the country.

Irony of life! Yet 95yr old Mugabe still waxing strong

Why good people don't live long, Mugabe is there
May his soul rest in perfect peace