CHAPTER 8 8.0. CONCLUSION It was very clear to the Commission from all testimonies and submissions received that the scope and consequences including the death of six civilians of the violence that occurred on the 1st of August 2018, following the national elections was regarded as being unprecedented in the history of elections in independent Zimbabwe. In the Commission’s view, the appointment of the Commission of Inquiry into the violence with a majority of international members, and with terms of reference relating to both the present and the future, was indicative of President Mnangagwa’s determination to ensure a non-repetition of such an unwholesome national experience in future. It was also clear to the Commission from the testimonies of the witnesses who appeared before it that there is at present a very worrisome degree of polarisation and bitterness within the body politic of Zimbabwe. The Commission therefore, in this regard, commends the continuing statements by the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe calling for reconciliation, healing and unity among the citizenry. The Commission urges all the people of Zimbabwe to respond positively to these appeals by the President and at the same time the Government to reinforce these appeals with inclusive policies. The Commission believes from its wide-ranging experiences in Harare, Bulawayo, Gweru and Mutare, that President Mnangagwa is determined to open a new chapter in the policies and activities of the Government of Zimbabwe, including the restoration of the country’s diplomatic and commercial relations with the international community. 55 55