LESSONS FROM THE LIFE OF THE LATE RETIRED GENERAL SOLOMON MUJURU
Last Updated on Thursday, 18 August 2011 12:25 Written by Administrator Thursday, 18 August 2011 12:16
LESSONS FROM THE LIFE OF
THE LATE RETIRED GENERAL SOLOMON MUJURU
Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) joins fellow Zimbabweans in
expressing our deep shock and sorrow following the tragic and untimely death
of Retired General Solomon Mujuru on the 16th of August 2011.
Rex Nhongo was, and shall remain, a leading icon of the nationalist struggle
for liberation from the oppression of the people of Zimbabwe by the racist
colonial regime prior to the gaining of our national Independence in 1980.
He was the apotheosis of a genuine liberation war veteran and his selfless
contribution during the struggle will forever be remembered and deeply
cherished.
He was a leader in the fight for recognition of the common desire in all
people to enjoy respect, equality, and human dignity – noble ideals which
are as relevant and pressing today as they were more than
31 years ago.
He refused to corrupt the liberation war ethos through a selfish and
parochial narrative of the liberation struggle, favouring inclusivity, as he
believed that independence and its fruits belonged to all. This is to be
emulated.
The Retired General also displayed commendable skill and understanding in
leading efforts to draw together deeply divided military forces following
Independence as the country’s first Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army.
He was a pragmatist - encouraging tolerance, respect for diverse views and
interests, and thus contributed substantially to the nation-building
project. He also shunned the belief that he was the only person who could
contribute to such processes, knowing when to pass on the baton of
responsibility to the following generation. Such skills, investment and
belief in inclusivity and generational change, and his statesmanship should
serve as an example in the current context of our deeply polarised society.
ZLHR extends its deepest condolences to the Vice President, Amai Joyce
Mujuru, the Mujuru family, friends and the nation at large. May his soul
rest in eternal peace
- ENDS -