Emmerson Mnangagwa has been declared the winner of Zimbabwe's historic first election since the fall of Robert Mugabe.
But the opposition has refused to accept the vote, instead demanding the release of "proper and verified" election results.
It comes after six people were killed and 14 injured when police and army fired live rounds to disperse a protest by opposition supporters in Harare on Wednesday.
Water Cannons and Anti-Riot Police Remain Outside MDC Offices In Calm But Tense Atmosphere After Mnangagwa Wins Historic Vote |
Could international sanctions now be lifted?
If the election is judged credible, it will be a big step towards the lifting of international sanctions on this southern African nation whose economy has long collapsed and whose reputation has suffered after years of repression of the opposition and allegedly rigged votes.Streets remain quiet
The streets of the capital city Harare were quiet early on Friday, with traffic thinner than usual. Water cannons and anti-riot police remained outside the MDC offices, a reminder of the clashes between opposition and the security forces this week.South Africa urges peace
South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa urged all Zimbabweans on Friday to accept the election of Emmerson Mnangagwa as president after a poll marred by violence."President Ramaphosa has appealed to all political leaders and the people of Zimbabwe to accept the outcome of the election and should they have challenges, they must follow legal remedies provided for in the constitution and electoral law," the presidency said in a statement.
Ramaphosa is also the Chairperson the Southern African Development Community.