‘Zimbabweans should take pride in the Unity Accord’

Thandeka Moyo-Ndlovu-Bulawayo Bureau

ZIMBABWEANS should take pride in the Unity Accord and cherish its legacy as a unique gift that the founding fathers of the nation the late former President Robert Mugabe and the late Vice President Dr Joshua Nkomo gave to the country.

Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Judith Ncube, said this recently as she rallied Zimbabweans to cherish the gains of the Unity Accord, which was signed on December 22, 1987.

As the country commemorates the 36th anniversary of the Unity Accord, she said every citizen must cherish the holiday and reflect on its legacy.

Minister Ncube said the Unity Accord helped stop the post-independence political strife in the country and up to this day peace prevails. She said this year’s unity holiday was significant as it comes at a time when traditional leaders are about to start the process of bringing closure to the Gukurahundi subject through public hearings.

“Unity Day is one of the most important days in the history of Zimbabwe, it reminds us that respect and love for each other are important,” said Minister Ncube.

“When we talk about unity we mean unity at home, in communities even at the top so that we breed happy homes. On Friday we are celebrating unity and I urge Bulawayo residents to join us.

“The unity accord didn’t come easy, someone was really determined to divide but we praise our founding fathers who reminded us that we are all one as Zimbabweans. We should therefore cherish the gift by remaining united in everything so that we develop and become successful people,” she said. 

Minister Ncube said tomorrow’s holiday must compel everyone to take time to reflect on the tough times the country has gone through and how the enemy could have won if divisions were left to evolve.

“As Bulawayo may we celebrate the day by ensuring there is unity and love at home and everywhere. This is a recipe for development and as long as we don’t forget that we are one Zimbabwe, we will forge ahead confidently,” said the minister.

Meanwhile, chiefs have said consultations are underway to finalise the date when the Gukurahundi hearings will start next year and President Mnangagwa is expected to launch the outreach programme.

The public hearings are aimed at gathering information from the public on what could be done to bring closure to the Gukurahundi disturbances so that victims can move on with their lives.

The Unity Accord brought together Zanu and PF-Zapu under the banner of Zanu PF. During the 10th anniversary of the Unity Accord, on December 22, 1997, the day was declared a national holiday to highlight its significance while ensuring that it would never be forgotten or undermined by anyone.