by Christine Lethokuhle Mabhena

In his first statement issued today after returning home from a successful four-nation tour of Eurasia, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called for unity among the nation’s key stakeholders and invited them for a dialogue.

Writing on his official twitter page, President Mnangagwa invited stakeholders and appealed to them to prioritize the national good.

 “I invite leaders of all political parties as well as religious and civil leaders to set aside our differences and come together,” he tweeted.

“What unites us is stronger than what could ever divide us. Let’s begin a national dialogue. Let’s put the economy first. Let’s put the people first,” said the President

President Mnangagwa went on to condemn the 14 January 2019 violent and destructive protests, that marred the so-called ZCTU and MDC Alliance stay away which resulted in violence, damage to both private and property, looting of shops, terror attacks on security establishments including attempts to overrun some police stations and loss of lives.

The President also tweeted on the 12 January fuel price increases which were used by the organisers of the protest to ignite the stay away.

“One week ago, I announced measures to stabilise our nation’s crucial fuel supply. I was aware that these measures may not be popular, and this was not a decision we took lightly. But it was the right thing to do.

“What followed was regrettable and tragic. Everyone has the right to protest, but this was not a peaceful protest. Wanton violence and cynical destruction; looting police stations, stealing guns and uniforms; incitement and threats of violence. This is not the Zimbabwean way,” said President Mnangagwa.

It now remains to be seen how the stakeholders are going to react to the invitation given that the church and political players such as the MDC Alliance have been accusing the President of not embracing dialogue.