Tribute to Rtd Gen Mujuru

and independence.
We joined hands in building a People’s Army, the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) it became known.
We ululated and saluted his extraordinary achievements, as medal upon medal decorated his No.1 Dress.
Rex Nhongo, we knew him during the liberation struggle, General Solomon Tapfumaneyi Mujuru, we know him now.
In struggle and in peace he remained the same, faithful and fearless to the very end.
Retired General Mujuru, he is affectionately called, a title earned through dedication and hard work.
The first commander of the Zimbabwe National Army,
A position he held with distinction.
Behind this great man, there is that great woman,
Teurai Ropa, we knew her during the struggle,
Joice Runaida Mugari Mujuru, we know her now.
In struggle and in peace, they stood together, faithfully serving the party and Government they helped to build.
Joice Mujuru climbed to the highest rung of political greatness.
A greatness, no other woman in Zimbabwe ever reached. Vice President of Zanu-PF, and of the Government of Zimbabwe.
Always supported and complemented by the astute and courageous General.
Together, Solomon and Joice have children,
Some of whom have their children too.
Their children and grand children and great grand children, now and in future shall have their offspring too.
This, so that the legend of Solomon Mujuru,
Through them, continues to live ad infinitum.
But Rtd Gen Solomon Mujuru belongs not only to his parents,
Or does he belong only to his wife, children and grand children. Rtd Gen Solomon Tapfumaneyi Mutusva Mujuru belongs to us.
Them and us. Us, as a nation.
We join the family of Rtd Gen Mujuru in pain and mourning. The collective pain and mourning resultant from losing a loved one.
In extending our condolences to Mai Mujuru and Family,
We are in fact consoling ourselves with the same breath.
For the General had an army of loyal followers, an army to whom he was like a father.
Like the strategist he grew to be, the General played his cards close to his chest.
“Dust to dust”, he expected the priest to pontificate,
Committing his flesh to the mercy of the ants.
“Dust to dust” it would not be, strategised the General,
For the white ants (mujuru) are one like me.
“Dust to ashes” it had to be, for no ants feed on ashes.
l Mutambara was known as “Dragon Patiripakashata” during the liberation struggle. He is Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Mozambique.