Zanu-PF Bulawayo pushes for national hero status for Maseko

former Matabeleland North Governor and diplomat, Retired Major-General Jevan Maseko who died in Bulawayo on Monday be accorded national hero status.

Rtd Maj-Gen Maseko succumbed to renal failure, amyloidosis cancer and diabetes at Mater Dei Hospital at the age of 70.

Provincial party spokesperson Cde Michael Sikhosana yesterday said they held a meeting Monday evening where they agreed that they approach the Politburo over Maj-Gen Maseko’s status.

“The provincial executive held a meeting Monday evening and unanimously resolved to request the senior leadership to bestow Retired Major-General Maseko a national hero status in honour of his contribution to the liberation struggle and after independence.

“He was one of the distinguished Zipra cadres who served the country faithfully in the army and in Government. All his duties were at national level hence the request for such a befitting status.

“We hope the senior leadership would consider our request when the Politburo meets tomorrow,” said Cde Sikhosana.

Meanwhile, condolence messages for the late freedom fighter continued to pour in with leaders and colleagues describing Rtd Maj-Gen Maseko as a unique cadre who would remain in everyone’s mind.

Zanu-PF National Chairman Cde Simon Khaya Moyo said the departure of Rtd Maj-Gen Maseko was a devastating blow to the revolutionary party and the nation at large.

“He was a fully baked revolutionary, an exceptional cadre of the liberation struggle, a man of vision and a courageous commander, an unflinching servant of the people and an accomplished diplomat,” said Cde Khaya Moyo.

Zanu-PF spokesperson Cde Rugare Gumbo applauded Rtd Maj-Gen Maseko’s liberation war credentials and said his family should take comfort in that he leaves behind a huge legacy for the country.

“He is a man who contributed immensely to the liberation of this country and to its development after independence. We regret that he had battled with this illness for a long time,” said Cde Gumbo.
He said the Politburo was going to deliberate on Rtd Maj-Gen Maseko’s hero status when it meets in Harare today.

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Zapu leader and former Zipra head of intelligence Dr Dumiso Dabengwa described Rtd Maj-Gen Maseko as a reliable leader who demonstrated loyalty and skill in the discharge of his duties.

“He was one of the key Zipra cadres together with the likes of Retired Colonel Richard Dube and the late Nikita Mangena.

“Theirs was a strong group of young man we trained and they made a big difference in Zipra,” said Dr Dabengwa.

Rtd Col Dube, who said he first knew Maseko in 1968, described him as a man who displayed unparalleled leadership qualities and applauded his humble demeanour.

Rtd Maj-Gen Maseko was born on January 11943 at Hope Fountain on the outskirts of Bulawayo.

Rtd Maj-Gen Maseko’s wife, Thandiwe died in 2007 and he is survived by two children.

Burial arrangements are yet to be announced.

Mourners are gathered at Number 19 Kildare Road, Hillside.