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The Herald, December 27, 1979
ZIPRA and ZANLA commanders who arrived to a heroes welcome yesterday expressed optimism that the ceasefire would work smoothly.
ZIPRA army commander, Mr Mafela “Lookout” Masuku told reporters: “Give a chance, I think it (the ceasefire) will work out.”
The ZANLA chief-of-staff, Mr Rex Nhongo, promised to answer most questions “tomorrow”, but also expressed the belief that the ceasefire would work.
“We are free now. Yes we are here,” he said.
Mr Masuku (39) said he was “very happy” to be back, adding he was last legally in Rhodesia a year ago having left the country in 1963.
Both commanders were confident they could convince their forces to report to the assembly points set up in terms of the Lancaster House agreement.
Neither would say when the Patriotic Front co-leaders, Mr Joshua Nkomo and Mr Robert Mugabe, would return to Rhodesia.
Armed with a pistol, Mr Masuku said all his commanders were armed for self-defence in accordance with the agreement.
They would be deployed to rendezvous and assembly points as soon as possible, he added.
LESSONS FOR TODAY
Ceasefire started on December 29. The Patriotic Front forces were to assemble at assembly points with their arms and equipment.
The Rhodesian forces were also moved. All this was undertaken in order to achieve an effective separation of the forces and an effective ceasefire.
Although there were disturbances in the early 80s between some elements of the Zipra forces and the Zimbambwe Defence Forces, the conflict led to the Unity Accord of December 22, 1987 that was commemorated last week, as the nation reflected on the past and future.
Always give peace, unity and a love a chance. They are a strong foundation for a flourishing Zimbabwe.
Zimbabweans must learn from past experiences in order to propel the development agenda. Reconciliation must be the catch word for all.
Online Reporter