THE Sibangilizwe Nkomo-led opposition Zapu has hit out at the government for failing to look after veterans of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle.
Sibangilizwe is the son of the late nationalist Father Zimbabwe, Joshua Nkomo.
Zapu said veterans of the liberation struggle had not benefited from the sacrifices made during the liberation struggle.
Zimbabwe commemorated Heroes Day on Monday this week with celebrations held across the country.
In a message to mark the day, Zapu secretary for political education Mncedisi Mavuso Tshabalala said it was sad that the real freedom they aspired for everyone was still a pipe dream.
“We remember those who strived to attain our freedom, justice and equality. Their legacy inspires us to continue striving for a truly free Zimbabwe,” Tshabalala said.
“Forty-five years after our hard-won independence from colonialism, calls for freedom still echo across the length and breadth of Zimbabwe.
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“The gap between what our freedom fighters fought for and our present lived realities continues to widen. Even veterans of the liberation struggle have not tasted real freedom in our troubled nation.”
He said many repressive laws used during the Rhodesian era continued to keep the populace in fear of the government.
“Our natural resources, largely controlled by the State, are used mainly for power retention at the expense of national development,” he said.
“To our heroes who passed away during or after the liberation struggle, our hearts sing praises for your gallantry. We honour your memory and celebrate your varied contributions.
“Your courage and determination paved the way for our belief in freedom and demand for our rights. You unshackled us from colonial bondage and taught us to insist on our human dignity.”
Tshabalala said the indomitable spirit was inspired by the fallen and living heroes, to whom they expressed deep gratitude.
“Your dedication and perseverance serve as a beacon of hope for our nation. We salute your achievements and continue to draw inspiration from your examples.
“Again, we salute all who gave support to the liberation war effort by feeding, shielding and informing the freedom fighters.
“Intelligence from non-combatants often dismissed as plain villagers and cattle herders, gave our combatants a fighting chance against well-resourced Rhodesian forces.”
Tshabalala said Zapu recognised the heroism of all freedom fighters at the provincial and national levels.
“We also recognise the unsung heroes in different communities, appreciated only by their families and small social circles,” he said.
“Their contributions were not in vain, for what we call Zimbabwe today is the sum of every small step taken in the quest for freedom.
“We urge communities to speak more about the heroic exploits of their local heroes, for them to be honoured by the State for their bravery and patriotism.”
He said Zimbabweans should consider local heroes when naming roads and social amenities in their communities.
