Emmerson Mnangagwa, the leader of the ruling Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front, will be sworn in as the successor of Robert Mugabe on Friday, AP reported on Wednesday.

This comes a day after Mugabe stepped down from the presidency as impeachment proceedings against him began.

Mnangagwa, who was Mugabe’s longtime deputy, had fled the country earlier in November, claiming threats against his life after the former president looked to install his wife Grace as his successor.

The 75-year-old met South African President Jacob Zuma in Pretoria on Wednesday before travelling to Johannesburg’s Lanseria airport, where he boarded a private jet. He is expected to arrive at the Manyame Air Base in Harare, where crowds have gathered to welcome him.