Unity key to development: VP Mphoko

Vusumuzi Dube, Sunday News Reporter
VICE-PRESIDENT Phelekezela Mphoko has blasted individuals who fan factionalism within the ruling party saying factionalism weakens the party.

Speaking during a thanks-giving service for the late national hero, Dr Sikhanyiso Ndlovu at the Ndlovu residence in Sunninghill yesterday, VP Mphoko said he was disappointed when he was told of clashes which occurred at the National Heroes’ Acre after Dr Ndlovu was laid to rest. He said this was not the right way to honour Dr Ndlovu as he had been a man who always prioritised unity, before and after independence.

“I am aware that there were a lot of fights after we had finished laying Dr Ndlovu to rest, which is very disappointing because this is one thing which Dr Ndlovu always fought against. He put unity ahead of everything else, knowing very well that unity is key to development. Dr Ndlovu was not only an educationist but he was a unifier. He worked hard for unity. I remember during the liberation struggle he was at the forefront of unity talks between Zipra and Zanla even the famous 1987 Unity Accord, he was one of the people who were pivotal in the talks. So, honestly, how can we honour Dr Ndlovu by fighting among ourselves after laying him to rest,” said VP Mphoko.

He said what was needed was that people learn from the works of Dr Ndlovu to help unify and further develop the nation.

“Dr Ndlovu has left us a legacy, a legacy which we must now embrace and ensure that we take over from where we left. We must stop fighting among each other and foster the spirit of unity,” said VP Mphoko.

Speaking during the same service, the Ndlovu family spokesperson, who is also the late Dr Ndlovu’s younger brother, Mr Simangaliso Ndlovu, expressed gratitude to all the support they had received during their time of grieving.

“We feel humbled by the love shown to us as a family during Dr Ndlovu’s hospitalisation and during our time of mourning. I would like to especially thank the Mater Dei staff who took great care of him when he was hospitalised. I am told that almost the entire hospital staff wept when my brother passed away. Further we would like to thank President Mugabe and the ruling Zanu-PF party for the honour they gave Dr Ndlovu — that of being a National Hero. It makes us proud that one of our own is lying besides iconic leaders like the late Vice-President Dr Joshua Nkomo,” said Mr Ndlovu.

The service was also attended by Bulawayo Provincial Affairs Minister Cde Nomthandazo Eunice Moyo and Politburo member Cde Absalom Sikhosana to mention but a few.

Meanwhile, VP Mphoko yesterday also officially opened Ceragem Health Centre in the city, where he encouraged youths to stop complaining but instead start acting towards developing and empowering themselves. He said the city still had great potential but only needed courageous individuals to take up the challenge before them.

The health centre was started by Mr Jeramu Ncube and specialises in massage therapy as a form of treating the body.