by Sibusiso Ndlamini

President Emmerson Mnangagwa who is in New York for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) summit had an interview with CNN's Christiane Amanpour, yesterday, in which he said events of the past should be left behind and focus should be directed towards building the nation for the betterment of Zimbabwean citizens.

Asked if Zimbabwe has really entered into a new dawn following his inauguration after his poll victory of the July 30 harmonised elections, the President said he changed the appearance of the Cabinet and appointed people with various expertises, in various sectors including women and youth.

 “Look at the new Cabinet which I have, how many people are new in that Cabinet, you can see the direction which we are going and I even said this even before the conclusion the elections that I am going to bring in people with various expertise in various areas, the women, the youth, and I have done so,” said President Mnangagwa.

 “So, I believe people should examine what I am doing and not leave on perception. The past should be left behind and do our best for the future and work for the betterment of our people. I need the best brains the country can produce across the board,” added the President.

The President also highlighted that he created a democratic political space which led to peaceful, free and fair campaigns. “I can assure you, this year around; we had a very peaceful, free and fair campaign period, which we have never experienced before.”

President Mnangagwa is joining the rest of world leaders in New York and is expected to address the UNGA on Wednesday 26 September 2018.