‘Independence is for all Zimbabweans’

Herald Reporter
Minister of State for Harare Metropolitan Province Cde Miriam Chikukwa has urged Zimbabweans to put aside their political differences and come out in their thousands to celebrate the country’s 35th independence anniversary that will be held on Saturday next week.

Minister Chikukwa said Independence Day was for every Zimbabwean irrespective of diverse backgrounds. “The independence celebrations are not partisan, we are urging every Zimbabwean to attend,” she said. “We are like the children of Israel, who came from captivity and because of independence we now have our land and our freedom and access to education.”

She said Independence Day was important because a lot of Zimbabweans sacrificed their lives for the country’s freedom to be achieved. Harare Provincial Administrator Mr Alfred Tome expressed satisfaction with the preparations for the independence celebrations to be held at the National Sports Stadium.

He said most logistical arrangements were in place and urged Zimbabweans to come in their thousands to celebrate the historic occasion that marked the liberation of the country.

“Preparations are at an advanced stage with the mobilisation of people and resources being done through the revolutionary party Zanu-PF,” said Mr Tome.

“We have got 45 buses which will carry people from the usual pick-up points to the venue of the main celebrations. As you know, there is going to be a children’s party on the 17th of April from all the 10 provinces being hosted by the President at the City Sports Centre. The decorations of the roads with flags will start on Monday next week and will be completed by Tuesday.”

Mr Tome said Zimbabweans should take time to reflect on the country’s independence as it came about through the sacrifice of gallant sons and daughters of the country. “This is an important day on our calendar and every Zimbabwean should reflect on the sacrifices that were made by sons and daughters of this country to have the freedom that we are enjoying today,” he said.

“Therefore, we expect people to come and celebrate this day on the 18th of April.”

Harare Metropolitan Province has set up a co-ordinating team to ensure that the celebrations are held without any hitches.