HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) — An opposition figure who used to be a close ally of Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe says she thinks the 92-year-old leader wants to hand power to his wife, Grace Mugabe.

Joice Mujuru, a former vice president who has launched an opposition political party, said in an interview with The Associated Press on Wednesday that Grace Mugabe wants to establish dynastic rule in Zimbabwe.

Mujuru was ousted from the ruling ZANU-PF party in 2014 following a campaign against her by the president's wife, who has raised her own political profile in the past year. Grace Mugabe has denied ambitions to take power after her husband.

Mugabe celebrated his 92nd birthday last month. He has appealed for unity as the ruling party splits into factions ahead of an expected succession battle.