adminNyemudzai Kakore Herald Correspondent
Diplomats from Africa and beyond yesterday hailed Zimbabweans for coming out in their numbers to honour fallen gallant sons and daughters of the liberation struggle who rendered their sacrifice in freeing the motherland from minority rule.
The diplomats were among dignitaries who thronged the National Heroes’ Acre in Harare yesterday.
Dean of African diplomats accredited to Zimbabwe and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Ambassador to Zimbabwe Dr Mawampanga Mwanananga said Zimbabwe should remember the gallant heroes by defending its sovereignty, freedom, independence and peace.
“Your heroes fought to liberate this country and to free it from the colonial yoke,” he said.
“You should also understand that before the new dispensation there was a lot of harassing of civilians and people did not really enjoy much freedom that was fought for, but the new dispensation has brought much freedom which you are enjoying today.
“All of the observer missions have said the elections were done properly, they were above board, the people of Zimbabwe conducted themselves in unity. We all regret what happened on August 1, but as you know, because in any country they are always troublemakers who can do certain things. We are happy the President is going to set up a commission of enquiry to find out what happened.”
Palestine first secretary to Zimbabwe Mr Manar Alagha said this year’s Heroes’ Day was special as it came when the country has just elected President Mnangagwa who has opened a new chapter for business and development in the country.
“I would like to congratulate Zimbabwe for this day and its new President,” he said.
“I believe Zimbabwe will from now start to develop their economy and start to build their country. We believe Zimbabwe will work hard to rebuild the country and mend relations.”
Malawi’s first secretary, Dr Sanderson Kuyeli, said Heroes’ Day was a day to celebrate the courage, selflessness and the sacrifices that the fallen gallant sons and daughters of the liberation struggle rendered.
Said Algeria’s Ambassador Nacerdine Sai: “This day comes as a kind of hope for national unity because we should take an example from those who sacrificed their lives for the liberation of the country. They were united in their fight against the colonial prison system.
“To all those stakeholders in the electoral process, they should understand that, after all, what is important is to keep Zimbabwe as a united country. One’s quest for leadership should not overcome the love for the unity of Zimbabwe.”
Online Reporter