Opposition Pitch Tsvangirai as Mnangagwa Sworn-in

Zimbabwe opposition leader, Morgan Tsvangirai

Opposition Pitch Tsvangirai as Mnangagwa Sworn-in

Main opposition party in Zimbabwe, Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) has tipped long-time opposition leader, Morgan Tsvangirai to wrestle power with the ZANU-PF’s in-coming leader, Emmerson Mnangagwa the 2018 presidential election.

Just as Mnangwagwa was being sworn-in, the MDC tweeted, “President Tsvangirai today attended the inauguration ceremony of Emmerson Mnangagwa, the incoming President of Zimbabwe”.

Already, political activists are doubting that Mnangagwa could curb corruption in the system when some allegedly corrupt politicians are still conspicuous in the system.

Dough Coltart, a social activist wrote: “It’s hard to take Mnangagwa’s statements on dealing with corruption seriously when Obert Mpofu—one of the most notoriously corrupt people in Zimbabwe—is the one giving the vote of thanks. His Govt must prove it is different by rooting out deadwood and drawing in competent people”.

Mnangagwa said he felt “deeply humbled” to take the role, noting he was “not oblivious to the many Zimbabweans from across the political and racial divide who have helped make this day.”

He paid tribute to his predecessor Robert Mugabe – to muted applause – calling him “a father, mentor, comrade-in-arms and my leader”.

Tens of thousands of people packed the National Sports Stadium in Zimbabwe’s capital, Harare, to witness the inauguration. Pop singer Jah Prayzer provided the entertainment and, as people in the crowd danced, the atmosphere was closer to that of a concert.

Dignitaries, including leaders from various African countries, filed in to cheers.

Opposition leaders Morgan Tsvangirai and Joice Mujuru – who both had their sights on the presidency at various times – were there.

Mr Mugabe left office dramatically this week after 37 years of authoritarian rule. His departure followed a power struggle in which Mr Mnangagwa was sacked as vice president to pave the way for Grace Mugabe, the then-first lady, to take up the presidency.