Emmerson Mnangagwa, Zimbabwe’s President, was inaugurated for his second term on Monday after being declared the victor of the recently contested election held last month.
Despite the opposition party’s claim of a “massive deception” regarding the election results, Mnangagwa, in his post-inauguration address, appealed for national unity and pledged to resuscitate the struggling economy with the aim of lifting millions out of poverty.
“Responsive policies, which began in the first term of my presidency, are on course to lift many out of poverty,” Mnangagwa said.
Thousands of Mnangagwa’s supporters, mostly bussed in from across the country, sang and danced as the 80-year-old walked into the National Sports Stadium alongside his wife.
He took oath of office in front of Chief Justice Luke Malaba who in 2018 declared Mnangagwa as winner following a constitutional court challenge.
“I stand as a president of all. I offer you individually and collectively, unity,” Mnangagwa said.
A number of African leaders, among them South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Mozambique’s leader Phillipe Nyusi, and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi, graced the swearing-in event. Notably, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema opted not to attend.
Mnangagwa’s commencement of a second term coincides with persistent economic difficulties, marked by an 80% devaluation of the Zimdollar since the beginning of the year, all while international financial aid remains suspended.
