Online Reporter
Zvamaida Murwira
Senior Reporter
President Mnangagwa has conferred liberation hero status on the late Bishop Clement Karikoga Chisango in recognition of his role in the liberation struggle that led to the country’s Independence in 1980.
Bishop Chisango, who died on April 22, was the founding leader of the Ebenezer Holy Apostolic Church and president of the Council of Apostolic Churches of Zimbabwe (CACZ), a grouping of several apostolic churches in the country.
The conferment was announced by Zanu PF Secretary-General, Advocate Jacob Mudenda, in a letter addressed to the Chief Secretary in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Dr Martin Rushwaya.
“His Excellency, the President and First Secretary of Zanu PF Cde E.D Mnangagwa has conferred liberation hero status to the late Cde Clement Karikoga Chisango who died on 22 April 2026,” said Adv Mudenda.
He was buried in Chikomba, Mashinge village under Chief Neshangwe, last Saturday.
The conferment followed recommendations from Zanu PF Harare province and the Zimbabwe Political Prisoners, Detainees and Restrictees Association.
Cde Chisango, who was born on January 1, 1946, joined nationalist politics in the 1960s. He was arrested by the Ian Smith regime under the Law and Order Maintenance Act and detained at Salisbury Central Prison on May 15, 1966, before being transferred to Conmara Prison on September 7, 1966.
He was later released on May 2, 1968.
Zanu PF secretary for administration for Harare Province, Cde Nobert Jinjika, described him as a dedicated cadre who remained committed to the party until his death.
Thousands of mourners, including politicians, religious leaders and war veterans, thronged Maware village in Chikomba district, where he was buried with full military honours on Saturday.
Mashonaland East Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Itai Ndudzo, whose speech was delivered by Councillor Mrs Gladys Mavurume, described Cde Chisango as a committed nationalist.
“He was imprisoned for more than two years under the Law and Order Maintenance Act for raising political consciousness and political activism,” said Adv Ndudzo.
Religious leaders, including CACZ vice president Bishop Amos Selemani and Ebenezer Holy Apostolic Church incoming leader Bishop Trymore Chisango, also paid tribute.
Bishop Selemani described him as a dedicated spiritual leader.
“He continued serving God, travelling several areas across the country preaching the word despite ill health,” said Bishop Selemani.
Bishop Chisango said he would carry forward his father’s legacy.
“I am aware of the challenges that lie ahead and the demands and expectations from me to be strong. Initially when I was asked to take up leadership position of the Church when my father was unwell; I was hesitant and reluctant because my preoccupation was to become a professional footballer because that is where my passion lied.
“But upon reflection and through spiritual guidance, I am ready for the challenge and fulfill the vision of my father, the church and above all God’s wishes,” he said.
