Incoming Zimbabwean president Emmerson Mnangagwa says leaders of the Southern African leaders have praised the nation for removing former President Robert Mugabe from power without shedding blood.
Mnangagwa, who claims that he fled Zimbabwe when his life was in danger soon after he was axed by Mugabe, told cheering supporters at the Zanu PF headquarters in Harare that President Jacob Zuma of South Africa, Namibian leader Hage Geingob, former Tanzanian president Jakaya Gikwete and several others believe that the country is now in a position to record meaningful growth after an almost smooth transfer of power.
“They are saying this makes the whole SADC region and others proud of you,” he said.
He noted that there was an attempt to poison him while he was at a Presidential Youth Interface Rally in Gwanda, which was later followed by personal attacks on him by the former First Lady Grace Mugabe and her husband.
He said Zimbabwe will not focus on reviving the economy in order to create jobs for members of the public.
Mnangagwa further praised the military for helping in unseating Mugabe. “They have been able to manage this process very peacefully. I was in constant contact with the service chiefs while I was out of the country.”
He said there was need for leaders to listen to the voice of the people all the time, adding that the so-called Generation 40 “cabal’ almost destroyed the ruling party.
G40 members, comprising Professor Jonathan Moyo, Saviour Kasukuwere, Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko, wanted Mrs. Mugabe to succeed the former Zimbabwean leader.
Mnangagwa is expected to be sworn in on Friday.