HARARE, Nov. 24 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwe's Emmerson Mnangagwa, 75, was on Friday sworn in as the second President of Zimbabwe at a colorful ceremony attended by thousands of Zimbabweans and foreign dignitaries.
He replaced former president Robert Mugabe, whose resignation Tuesday after military and public pressure put an end to his 37-year stay in power.
Mnangagwa became Zimbabwe's second president since the nation attained independence from Britain in 1980.
Taking his oath of office before Chief Justice Luke Malaba, Mnangagwa pledged to uphold and defend the constitution and the rights of Zimbabweans.
"I will promote whatever that will advance and oppose whatever that will harm Zimbabwe. I swear that I will protect and promote the rights of the people of Zimbabwe," he said.
The inauguration was graced by dignitaries including Zambian President Edgar Lungu, Botswana President Ian Khama, Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi and Namibia Vice President Nickey Iyambo.
Zimbabwe's opposition leaders also attended the event.
