Uphold Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo, Zimbabweans Told

Joshua Nkomo of ZAPU and Robert Mugabe of ZANU, leaders of the Zimbabwe national liberation struggle.
Originally uploaded by Pan-African News Wire File Photos

Uphold Nkomo’s legacy, Zim told

Herald Reporter

ZIMBABWEANS have been urged to rededicate themselves to the noble values of the country’s liberation struggle and national unity, as they commemorate the 10th anniversary of the death of the late Vice President and Father Zimbabwe Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo.

In a statement yesterday, Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to South Africa Cde Simon Khaya Moyo said the inclusive Government and people from across the political, social and economic spectrum needed to promote oneness, selflessness for national development.

"The inclusive Government now in operation and working to address the challenges facing Zimbabwe should get inspiration from the ideals of national unity and development for which Dr Nkomo dedicated his life.

"Dr Nkomo bequeathed on this and future generations a lasting legacy of purpose and unity among all people of Zimbabwe.

"Without unity there can be no peace, and without peace there can be no development.

"The daunting challenges that we face as a nation today are not insurmountable if we all forge ahead with purpose, and in peace and unity," he said.

He said the death of Dr Nkomo had left a dark cloud over the country and a yawning gap in Zimbabwe’s politics.

"Umdala Wethu was a personage of such extraordinary wisdom and vision.

"Throughout his illustrious life of struggle, Dr Nkomo transcended the narrow boundaries and confines of tribe, region, religion gender, colour or race," he said.

Dr Nkomo was a true hero who dedicated his whole life to the liberation and unity of the people.

Dr Nkomo died on July 1 1999 and was declared a national hero.

A luminary of the country’s liberation struggle, Dr Nkomo, together with President Mugabe, was also instrumental in the signing of the 1987 Unity Accord which brought together Zanu PF and PF Zapu, the two liberation movements which spearheaded the struggle for independence.

Dr Nkomo was also pivotal in calling for the return of land to the majority blacks whose forefathers were dispossessed by colonial white settlers.