VP Chiwenga urges Zimbabweans to safeguard peace in honour of fallen heroes

Source: www.zimbabwesituation.com

Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga has urged Zimbabweans to cherish the country’s peace and steer clear of unnecessary conflict, framing this as the highest tribute to the nation’s fallen heroes and heroines. He made the remarks yesterday while addressing a memorial service for his late brother-in-law, Cde Peter Matopi, in Chegore village, Ward 11, Mutare district. The Vice President emphasised that those who do not understand the hardships of the liberation struggle may not fully grasp the value of the peace the country now enjoys.

Reflecting on the sacrifices made by liberation fighters, VP Chiwenga recounted the severe conditions they endured, including hunger, disease, and a lack of medicines. He noted that many died from jigger fleas and other afflictions, yet they pressed on knowing not all would return home. “People like my brother-in-law Peter Matopi and many others left the country for training in different countries and came back to fight for the independence of the country,” he said, adding that survivors now bear the duty of narrating the liberation story.

The Vice President stressed that peace and unity are essential for the nation to receive blessings. He called on Zimbabweans to avoid divisive actions, saying, “The idea of poking each other’s eyes out is not good.” He expressed hope that departed heroes like Cde Matopi would look back from heaven and see a peaceful, united nation, and that they would intercede for economic upliftment on behalf of the living.

Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, who introduced the Vice President, said the province has achieved food self-sufficiency and remains grateful to the country’s leadership for creating a conducive environment for that success. Speakers at the service described the late Cde Matopi as a God-fearing family man who lived harmoniously with family, neighbours, and colleagues.

Cde Matopi underwent military training at Mgagao in Tanzania in 1975 before returning to join the liberation struggle at its height. After independence, he served in the Zimbabwe National Army’s Armoured Cars Regiment under the Mechanised Brigade at Inkomo Barracks from 1981 to 2004. He also participated in Zimbabwe Defence Forces operations in Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and received the Zimbabwe Campaign Medal for his role in peacekeeping efforts in Mozambique during its civil strife.

Related topics: VP Chiwenga, peace, liberation struggle, Zimbabwe, fallen heroes, memorial service, national unity

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