Zimbabwe's President of 37 years Robert Mugabe has resigned.
In a letter, Mr Mugabe said the decision was voluntary, but he did not attempt to name a successor.
The surprise move brought impeachment procedures, which had begun following a rambling speech on Sunday night, to a halt.
"We are here because we want to be part of this very important occasion in the history of this country," said Harare resident Samuel Wadzai.
Zimbabwe opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai told the crowd outside Parliament that a "democratic Zimbabwe cannot be built by another un-democratic process."
Mr Tsvangirai said the culture of the ruling party "must end" and everyone must put their heads together and work toward free and fair elections.
