Rebuilding Zimbabwe: Mnangagwa needs to apologise for what he allowed to happen in Zimbabwe - Trevor Ncube

Following the resignation of Robert Mugabe as president of Zimbabwe, the country is now at a crossroads, facing the daunting task of rebuilding its shattered economy and fractured society. In a recent interview on CNBC Africa, Zimbabwean entrepreneur and newspaper publisher, Trevor Ncube, shared his thoughts on the future of the country under the leadership of Emmerson Mnangagwa, the man who succeeded Mugabe. Ncube emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in the new government, particularly when it comes to reporting economic variables such as inflation, economic growth, and liquidity. He raised concerns about Mnangagwa's long-standing association with Mugabe, suggesting that the new president needs to apologize for his role in the hardships that Zimbabweans have endured over the past 37 years. Ncube's call for an apology is rooted in the belief that acknowledging past wrongs is an essential step towards healing and rebuilding the nation. As Zimbabwe enters this crucial period of transition, the question remains whether Mnangagwa will rise to the occasion and lead the country towards a brighter future. One of the key issues that Ncube highlighted in the interview was the need for a free press in Zimbabwe. He stressed that a free press is essential for accurate reporting of economic data, which is vital for investors looking to make informed decisions. Ncube expressed hope that Mnangagwa would allow for greater transparency in official statistics, signaling a departure from the opacity that characterized Mugabe's regime. By fostering a more open environment for the media, the new government could instill confidence in both domestic and international investors, paving the way for economic growth and stability. Moreover, Ncube called attention to Mnangagwa's close relationship with Mugabe, raising concerns about whether the new president shares the same mindset as his predecessor. He questioned whether Mnangagwa's time in exile during the recent political turmoil had prompted him to reassess his allegiance and acknowledge the suffering that many Zimbabweans endured under Mugabe's rule. Ncube urged Mnangagwa to reflect on his past actions and consider apologizing to the Zimbabwean people for the role he played in enabling Mugabe's oppressive regime. By acknowledging past mistakes and demonstrating a commitment to positive change, Mnangagwa could set a new tone for his presidency and inspire confidence in his leadership. In conclusion, Ncube's comments underscore the complex challenges facing Zimbabwe as it embarks on a new era under Mnangagwa's leadership. The need for transparency, accountability, and reconciliation looms large as the country seeks to overcome decades of economic stagnation and political repression. By embracing these principles and charting a path forward based on honesty and repentance, Mnangagwa has the opportunity to earn the trust and support of the Zimbabwean people. As the nation looks towards the future with cautious optimism, the role of leadership in acknowledging past wrongs and fostering a climate of openness and reform cannot be overstated.