adminThe Herald, April 14, 1980.
SISTER Janice McLaughlin, an American Roman Catholic nun expelled from Rhodesia in 1977 after facing trial on charges of “spreading alarm and despondency”, returned to Salisbury yesterday.
After flying from Maputo, from where she has been engaged in assisting war refugees, she told reporters: “I feel very happy, I came to celebrate with the people,” reports Iana.
Sister McLaughlin, who from the evidence produced from her trial was considered to be sympathetic to the cause of guerillas, was deported before the end of her hearing.
Her trial in 1977 followed the publication of “fact papers” researched for the Roman Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace.
LESSONS FOR TODAY
The coming in of independence opened a new chapter in the history of the country and brought together people who were divided by their different political affiliations. The continued hosting of independence celebrations is a reminder that as Zimbabweans we are one people and should strive to work for the good of the country.
While Rufaro Stadium in Harare was the pioneer at hosting the Independence celebrations and other national events, its limelight was taken over by the National Sports Stadium.
The Second Republic has since decentralised celebration of national events. The 2023 Independence celebrations will therefore be held in Mt Darwin, Mashonaland Central Province – where the Second Chimurenga was birthed.
Independence celebrations are a time to reflect on the journey that we have travelled as a people, and for us to remember and appreciate those who made the ultimate sacrifice for us to enjoy the peace and tranquillity in the country.
More importantly it is a time for all Zimbabweans to renew their commitment and allegiance to making the country a success in line with President Manangagwa’s mantra, ‘Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo’.
Online Reporter