Politics: Zimbabwe's 'Crocodile' Emmerson Mnangagwa sworn in as leader

Harare, Zimbabwe (CNN)Newly inaugurated leader Emmerson Mnangagwalaid out his vision for Zimbabwe on Friday, paying tribute to Robert Mugabe as a "mentor" but vowing to eschew the former president's policies.

Mnangagwa was sworn in Friday as interim president, following Mugabe's historic resignation this week after nearly four decades of oppressive rule.

The new leader, who served as Mugabe's right-hand man for most of his career, used his first official address to try and differentiate himself from his predecessor, as his opponents try to depict him as part of the status quo.

Mnangagwa promised reforms to lift Zimbabwe out of poverty by jump-starting the country's lifeless economy and stamping out rampant corruption.

Despite earlier admitting he played a role in Mugabe's demise, Mnangagwa showered the former leader with praise Friday, portraying him as a national hero.

A 'president of all citizens'

Tens of thousands of people filled the cavernous National Sports Stadium in the capital, Harare, cheering, dancing and waving national flags as the former vice president was inaugurated.

The crowd cheers and dances at the inauguration ceremony in Harare on Friday.

As he took his oath, Mnangagwa swore to "protect and promote the rights of the people of Zimbabwe," a promise that was met with wild applause by the crowd, many of whom had lived their entire lives under Mugabe's oppressive rule.

The sash-wearing leader received a 21-gun salute, cannon fire and flyby by military aircraft in a colorful ceremony attended by African leaders and other dignitaries to mark the historic moment.

"(I am) required to serve our country as the president of all citizens, regardless of color, creed, religion, totem or political affiliation," he said in remarks after his swearing in.

He described his vision of a fairer Zimbabwe, in which segments of society no longer suffered from disease, hunger, unemployment, illiteracy and extreme poverty.

One supporter named Regis told CNN he wanted the new leader to "upgrade" the nation. "Mining, farming, education -- what I'm saying, we need to upgrade everything."

source: edition.cnn