Mnangagwa sworn in as Zimbabwe’s new president

Former vice-president, Emmerson Mnangagwa has been sworn in as Zimbabwe’s president in the country’s capital, Harare.

This is after the rather dramatic exit of Robert Mugabe after 37 years of ‘draconian’ rule.

Mnangagwa’s dismissal few weeks ago led the ruling Zanu-PF party and the army to intervene and force Mugabe to quit.

It can be recalled that he fled the country in the wake of the political upheaval, only return on Wednesday.

Mnangagwa who was accompanied by his wife Auxilia took the oath of office and was led by Chief Justice Luke Malaba.

Emmerson Mnangagwa and his wife Auxillia arrive at the presidential inauguration ceremony in the capital Harare on Friday. Photograph: Ben Curtis/AP

Tens of thousands of Zimbabweans gathered at a stadium in Harare, jubilating and congratulating one another amidst singing and dancing.

Raised banners with writings such as “Dawn of a new era” and “No to retribution” brandished the atmosphere.

“I Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa swear that as the president of the republic of Zimbabwe I will be faithful to Zimbabwe and obey, uphold and defend the constitution and all other laws of zimbabwe