by Nicole Hondo
In a refreshing departure from the polarised politics that had come to characterise the Zimbabwean political scene, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, fondly known as “ED”, has set the tone for an inclusive Zimbabwe, where everyone is free to pursue their political persuasions.
Speaking during an interview with CNN on 21 September, President Mnangagwa emphasised that “I believe that we should do everything possible under my administration to make sure our people develop a culture of accepting opposing views within the community and I am happy that during the entire process of the electoral process we didn’t have any disturbances, all the political parties accessed voters whom they thought would support them.”
Asked about the Gukurahundi episode, President Mnangagwa clarified that he felt there was need for finality on the issue hence the setting up of the National Peace and Reconciliation Commission (NPRC).
“Whatever report they are going to make I have promised the nation that I will make it public for everybody and we see it from there ...we should be man enough as a Government to accept whatever recommendations are made and see how as a Government we can comply with recommendations of the report,” said the President.
In an earlier interview with Bloomberg, President Mnangagwa had disclosed that Government would formally recognise the leader of the opposition in Parliament, in line with the Commonwealth parliamentary model and he/she would enjoy certain perks and benefits. Under the previous, administration there was no formal recognition of the leader of the opposition.
It remains to be seen whether opposition leader, Nelson Chamisa will take up President Mnangagwa’s offer of unity of purpose or stick to his “haivhiyiwe” stance that has frustrated many eager to see the country surging forward, post-election.
President Mnangagwa is currently attending the 73rd Session of the United Nations General Assembly, being held under the theme: Making the United Nations Relevant to All People: Global Leadership &Shared Responsibilities for Peaceful, Equitable & Sustainable Societies.'
