Online Reporter
Zvamaida Murwira, Senior Zimpapers Reporter
ACTING President Dr Kembo Mohadi has called for closer collaboration and co-ordination among national security organs, saying unity of purpose among security chiefs is critical to sustaining peace, stability and national development.
The Acting President made the remarks during a courtesy call by newly appointed Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) Commander, Lieutenant-General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi, at his offices in Harare yesterday.
Speaking after the meeting, Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi said the Acting President emphasised the importance of enhanced co-operation among all security agencies, including the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, the Zimbabwe Republic Police, the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service and the Central Intelligence Organisation.
He said effective co-ordination among security leaders was the foundation upon which lasting peace and national stability could be guaranteed.
“As you know, I was recently appointed Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, and it is part of our tradition to pay courtesy calls on the appointing authorities,” said Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi.
“We start with the President, then the Vice Presidents, and proceed to my superiors, including the Minister of Defence and the Secretary for Defence. So, this is part of that process where we are having those interactions.”
Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi said discussions with Acting President Mohadi focused on expectations surrounding his new role and the need for close co-operation among commanders of the country’s security forces.
“The Acting President emphasised co-ordination and co-operation among commanders of the security forces — the army, air force, police, prison services and the Central Intelligence Organisation. That was the main emphasis … since I am new and since the Commander of the Defence Forces is also new in his job, co-ordination is very important so that we secure the stability of this country; so that the people of Zimbabwe can sleep well while we are safeguarding them,” he said.
Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi assumed command of the ZNA last month, taking over from General Emmanuel Matatu, who was elevated to the position of Zimbabwe Defence Forces Commander. Gen Matatu succeeded General Phillip Valerio Sibanda, who recently retired from service after a distinguished military career. The handover and takeover parade between Gen Matatu and Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi was witnessed by Minister of Defence, Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri.
Addressing the ceremony, Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri described the change of command as another important milestone in the history of the Zimbabwe National Army. She noted that both officers boast illustrious military careers spanning the liberation struggle and post-independence service, having joined the armed struggle at a young age and rising through the ranks after the integration of forces at independence.
The Defence Minister praised their discipline and patriotism and urged them to continue safeguarding peace and stability in the country.
