Preserving Nkomo’s peaceful vision . . . Zimbabwe should unite for harmonised elections

AS the country commemorates the 24th anniversary of the death of former Vice President and Pan Africanist Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo, there is a strong need to amplify the call for peaceful polls and curb political violence. By doing so, we honour and preserve his legacy as a champion of peace.

Dr Nkomo, one of the pioneers of the Second Chimurenga, has been described on numerous occasions as a leader who drove the nation towards unity and peace. His dedication to the decolonisation and emancipation of the people of Zimbabwe earned him the affectionate titles of “Chibwechitedza,” “Umdala Wethu,” and “Father Zimbabwe”.

He was a trade unionist, a revered nationalist, and a Pan-African freedom fighter who dedicated his entire adult life to the cause.

On July 1, 1999, at the age of 82, Dr Nkomo passed away after a long battle with prostate cancer. In recognition of his service, he was interred at the National Heroes Acre, becoming a symbol of national pride and a father figure for the nation.

His legacy continues to guide the Second Republic under the leadership of President Mnangagwa, which cherishes the peace, tranquillity, and harmony brought about by the 1987 Unity Accord – a historic agreement bearing Dr. Nkomo’s signature. This accord not only united the nation but also laid the foundation for the peace and development we enjoy today.

Dr Nkomo’s rich legacy of peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and empathy for all citizens, regardless of creed, colour, region, or ethnic background, continues to inspire the Second Republic. President Mnangagwa aptly stated:

“The memories of this doyen of African liberation, a gentle giant and a passionate nation-builder, shall forever be etched in our hearts.”

As the nation marches towards the 2023 harmonised elections, it is crucial to amplify the call for peaceful polls as a mark of honour for this veteran nationalist who fervently desired peace to prevail in the country. Dr Nkomo will be remembered as a colossal political figure who, alongside his compatriots, gallantly fought and defeated racial injustice, oppression, and servitude. His unwavering commitment to a full-fledged armed struggle was driven by a desire to liberate their motherland.

President Mnangagwa further stressed Dr Nkomo’s indelible footprint on the Zimbabwean political landscape — a legacy of peace and the lofty values of ubuntu/unhu. This serves as irrefutable evidence that Dr Nkomo was a man of peace.

During the launch of Zanu-PF’s election campaign at Mutema Secondary School in Chipinge District recently, President Mnangagwa highlighted the importance of preserving the memory and legacy of fallen freedom fighters like Dr Nkomo. His love for Zimbabwe and its people was extraordinary and should forever be appreciated.

If a substantial volume of published material portrays Dr Nkomo as a peacemaker who consistently underscored the need for the people of Zimbabwe to maintain peace, then there is absolutely no reason why any form of violence should afflict the nation as we approach the elections.

It is our sincere hope that every Zimbabwean will embrace the spirit of peace embodied by Father Zimbabwe into the future. Dr Nkomo’s list of achievements, records, and leadership continue to inspire our nation in every situation we face.

However, there are certain political parties in our country that, strangely, believe in violence as a tool to gain power. It is important to remind them that such actions go against the visions of unity and development personified by Dr Nkomo.

President Mnangagwa has also publicly denounced violence ahead of the national elections. During a rally at Mucheke Stadium in Masvingo organised by YoungWomen4ED, he urged young people not to be manipulated by politicians into perpetrating violence. He called upon the youth and all voters to safeguard the peace, unity, love, and harmony that prevail in our mature and peaceful democratic country.

While we continue to celebrate and honour Father Zimbabwe, we must never lose sight of the fact that our enemies are still active, hoping to deliver a fatal blow. It is our collective responsibility to remain vigilant and protect the hard-earned peace and stability of our nation.

In the face of political challenges and differing ideologies, let us remember the legacy of Dr Nkomo and his unwavering belief in peaceful coexistence. His dedication to a united and harmonious Zimbabwe should serve as a guiding principle for all of us as we move forward. Together, we can create a future where peace, development, and prosperity thrive, in line with the vision of Father Zimbabwe.