Nation urged to focus on development

Pamela Shumba Senior Reporter
THE nation commemorates Heroes Day today with a call to focus on the country’s development and desist from fighting for leadership positions to honour those who died for the attainment of independence. Speaking after handing over 2 500 day-old chicks to residents of Njube suburb in Bulawayo as part of the poultry project he unveiled in June, Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko said it was not only those who went to war but also those who remained behind who contributed to the country’s independence.

“We remember these people with the freedom and peace that we have in the country today and the privileges that we never experienced before we attained independence,” said VP Mphoko.

He emphasised the need for the country to focus on development, saying that is what the country’s heroes died for. “Our fallen heroes deserve more accountability from each one of us. Let us therefore commemorate Heroes Day as well as Defence Forces Day with oneness of purpose and focus more on developmental issues.

“Let’s trust and respect one another at every level, uphold unity, peace and development. The nation owes all the heroes lasting and eternal gratitude through working hard for development,” said VP Mphoko.

The Vice President said the donation of day old chicks to residents was part of development initiatives meant to uplift the lives of ordinary people. He said people should not fight for leadership positions.

“This is development we’re trying to do. Help our people improve their lives. People who’re focused on development don’t fight over positions but fight for the upliftment of everybody’s life in the country. I’m 76 years old. I’m married, I have grown up children and I’m the Vice President of this country. What more would I want? My duty is to carry out my duties as the VP and bring development to the people. There’s no need to fight for leadership positions,” said VP Mphoko.

Heroes’ Day is marked today throughout the country while the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day will be commemorated tomorrow, with the main functions being held in Harare.