Zimbabwe's ex-VP Mnangagwa sworn in as President

Harare [Zimbabwe], Nov 24 (ANI): Zimbabwe's former vice-president Emmerson Mnangagwa was sworn-in as the president of the country, on Friday, thus beginning a new era for the long-troubled nation.

Mnangagwa became the country's second leader since Independence from white minority rule in 1980.

According to the The Guardian, Mnangagwa took his oath of office in front of tens of thousands of jubilant Zimbabweans who had gathered at a stadium in Harare.

Mnangagwa had returned from Johannesburg at a military airbase in Harare. He had fled to South Africa two weeks ago following his sacking by Robert Mugabe, citing threats to his life.

Many supporters carried placards thanking Mnangagwa for his "resilience and endurance", reported The Guardian.

Mugabe sacked Mnangagwa as vice-president two weeks ago to smooth a path to the succession for his wife Grace.

75-year-old Mnangagwa's sacking triggered a political crisis that culminated in the resignation of 93-year-old Mugabe on Tuesday.

The news that Mugabe was stepping down sparked wild celebrations across the country late into Tuesday night. (ANI)

This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI