President-elect of Zimbabwe Emmerson Mnangagwa has defended his electoral victory.
On Friday he told a news conference at State House in the capital, Harare that the elections were conducted legitimately.
Mnangagwa said the process was free and fair and therefore legitimizes his victory at the poll.
The opposition MDC has challenged the election results with its leader, Nelson Chamisa saying on Friday that the poll was rigged.
Speaking to journalists at the Bronte Hotel, the MDC Chamisa said “Mr Mnangagwa did not win the election in this country.
We won this election emphatically. We won this election and we are ready to form the next government.”
Reacting to the electoral process and the dispute from the opposition, Mr. Mnangagwa said “The constitution, as well as domestic and municipal law, states that Zec [the electoral commission] pronounces the one who has won the election. I have accepted it.”
“The EU told me there was peace, transparency, and freedom during the campaign period. They also told me the voting process was peaceful, transparent and well-organised” Mnangagwa added.
Monday’s historic election was marred by post election violence on Wednesday with six people dying after soldiers shot into protesters.
The President-elect said “I’ve told the nation I am going to institute an independent commission to inquire into these issues. It will be composed of our nationals as well as foreign nationals.”
Mnangagwa was declared winner of Monday’s historic on Thursday. He secured 50.8 percent of the votes while MDC’s Chamisa obtained 44.3 percent of total votes.
Mnangagwa, 75 became President last year after his former boss, Robert Mugabe resigned.
Mugabe was forced out of power after a military takeover which many believe was masterminded by Mnangagwa.
The former deputy of Mugabe after becoming president promised reforms including ensuring a free and fair election.
Source: Africafeeds.com
