HARARE, Feb 7 (NewsDay Live) - President Emmerson Mnangagwa has expressed sorrow over the death of former Manicaland Provincial Affairs minister Tinaye Elisha Nzirasha Chigudu.
He also declared him a national hero.
In a statement Friday, Mnangagwa said: “I received with deep sorrow and sadness news of the untimely death of Cde Tinaye Elisha Nzirasha Chigudu, a veteran of our liberation struggle.
“The Zanu PF politburo has agreed to accord Cde Chigudu the status of national hero in recognition of his immense contribution to the nation.”
Chigudu, who died Wednesday aged 83, was a key figure in Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle where he served as the late Vice-resident Joshua Nkomo's top aide. After independence, he served in various capacities, including as permanent secretary in the Home Affairs ministry, Manicaland Provincial Affairs minister as well as Zanu PF Manicaland provincial chairman.
He was one of the first combatants to be sent for training in North Korea under the Zimbabwe People’s Revolutionary Army (ZPRA).
Chigudu demonstrated his bravery during the liberation war, gathering critical information as an intelligence operative in Harare (then Salisbury) that assisted guerrilla operations and recruitment.
He was captured and imprisoned for 12 years by the Rhodesian regime, but continued to serve his country after his release.
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Mnangagwa described Chigudu as “a principled cadre who served the ruling Zanu PF party and the government with unquestionable allegiance, loyalty, and dedication”.
He added that Chigudu was “a fountain of wisdom who offered wise counsel and advice in conducting both party and government business, drawing from his vast experiences.”
