Online Reporter
Zimpapers Writer
ACTING President Kembo Mohadi has described the late former Vice-President Cde John Landa Nkomo as a true nationalist, astute politician and unifier whose legacy of peace and servant leadership continues to inspire the nation.
In a statement issued yesterday to mark the 13th anniversary of Cde Nkomo’s death, Acting President Mohadi said Zimbabwe was commemorating a leader who dedicated his life to public service and national unity.
“Cde John Landa Nkomo was a true nationalist, an astute politician and a unifier who served in Government in various portfolios from 1980 until his untimely demise on January 17, 2013,” said Acting President Mohadi.
He said the late Vice-President was a rare breed of freedom fighter who believed in servant leadership, where people determine their own destiny, a philosophy that aligns with the Second Republic’s development mantra, Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo/ Ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo.
“As the Second Republic embarks on the robust implementation of the National Development Strategy 2: 2026-2030, the nation is once again reminded of the late former Vice-President John Landa Nkomo’s wise counsel: ‘Peace begins with me, peace begins with you, peace begins with all of us’,” he added.
The Acting President urged Zimbabweans to continue working for peace and to defend the country’s sovereignty.
“Let us all work to maintain peace, and continue to defend the sovereignty of our beloved Motherland, Zimbabwe,” he said.
Cde Nkomo, who was born on August 22, 1934, died on January 17, 2013, while serving as Vice- President of Zimbabwe.
He was a veteran of the liberation struggle and one of the country’s most experienced statesmen. After Independence in 1980, he served in several key Government portfolios, including Minister of Home Affairs and Minister of Labour and Social Welfare.
He later served as Speaker of Parliament before being appointed Vice-President in 2009, a position he held until his death.
Throughout his career, Cde Nkomo was widely respected for his calm leadership style, commitment to national unity and strong belief in peace and reconciliation.
He played a central role in strengthening Zimbabwe’s parliamentary system and promoting dialogue during periods of political transition.
He is remembered as a principled leader who placed national interests above personal ambition and worked tirelessly for stability and development.
