1979 – Swearing-in of the first Majority Rule Government

Swearing-in of the first Majority Rule Government

8 May 1979

On 8 May 1979, Bishop Abel T. Muzorewa was sworn as the first black Prime Minister of Zimbabwe Rhodesia. Several hundred guests watched the ceremony on the grounds of the Dutch Colonial‐style mansion that served for 60 years as the residence of the British governor. Those present included black supporters of the Bishop, many of whom spent years in political detention, and prominent Europeans, including the outgoing Prime Minister, Ian D. Smith.

The rites featured another upholder of white rule, Chief Justice Hector MacDonald, in scarlet robes and a white wig, and were punctuated by trumpet fanfares blown by black policemen in golden‐tasseled fezzes. Afterward, women supporters of Bishop Muzorewa added an African flavor by ululating and advancing to the Bishop’s feet on hands and knees, a traditional gesture of respect.

Commemorative Covers

References

• New York Times, May 1979

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