Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has been sworn in for a second term on Monday after being declared the winner of last month’s disputed election.
According to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, Mnangagwa, who took over from long-time leader Robert Mugabe in 2017, won the election with 52.6% of the vote.
His main rival, Nelson Chamisa, of the Citizens’ Coalition for Change party, alleged widespread fraud but did not challenge the result in court despite calling for a new vote.
In his speech after being sworn in, Mnangagwa pleaded for unity and promised to revive the ailing economy. He said his government would focus on “responsive policies” to lift millions of Zimbabweans out of poverty.
“I stand as a president of all. I offer you individually and collectively, unity,” Mnangagwa said.
However, Mnangagwa’s second term will be marked by significant economic challenges. The Zimbabwean dollar has plunged 80% since the start of the year, and international funding remains frozen.
His government has also been criticized for its human rights record. In the run-up to the election, there were reports of widespread voter intimidation and the arrest of opposition activists.
Mnangagwa has said he is committed to upholding human rights and the rule of law.
Several African leaders, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Mozambique leader Phillipe Nyusi and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi attended the swearing-in ceremony.
