Ex-Zipra war veteran Max Mkandla has paid tribute to the late former War Veterans Minister Tshinga Dube, describing him as a father figure whose compassion and dedication earned him the love of many. Mkandla emphasized Dube’s tireless efforts to advocate for the return of Zipra and Zapu properties that were seized by the government during the turbulent Gukurahundi period of the 1980s.
“We mourn Dube for his passing,” Mkandla stated. “He was a member of Zapu and Zipra who worked relentlessly to unite people and ensure that Zipra properties remained with their rightful owners. Now, we have lost a senior commander.”
Retired Colonel Dube, a decorated war hero and former Member of Parliament for Makokoba, passed away at the age of 83 on Thursday evening at Mater Dei Hospital in Bulawayo. His contributions to Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and public service were profound, making his loss a significant blow to the community he served.
Mkandla reminisced about his experiences in Zipra properties, recalling his deployments and the comrades he shared those times with. “It’s painful that Dube has left us, especially regarding property issues,” he lamented.
He urged the war veterans and their families to come together to honor Dube’s memory, highlighting the importance of unity in the wake of his passing. Mkandla also called for respect for the principles outlined in the 1987 unity accord, particularly by those currently in positions of authority.
As the vetting process for war veterans and collaborators concludes, Mkandla expressed hope that all eligible individuals would receive their due recognition and support, noting that many had suffered without compensation. He criticized leadership figures who tarnish the legacy of those who fought for Zimbabwe’s liberation, emphasizing the need for acknowledgment and respect for their contributions.
In other news – Armed robbers target EcoBank branch in daylight heist
In a shocking daylight robbery, six masked men armed with pistols stormed the EcoBank branch at the Parkade Centre in Bulawayo, making off with several trunks reportedly filled with cash. The brazen heist occurred around 3 p.m. on Wednesday, in full view of stunned bystanders.
The robbers specifically targeted a Safeguard security truck as its personnel were attempting to load the trunks into the bank. Eyewitness accounts reveal that the assailants arrived in a Ford Ranger pickup truck and sprang into action with alarming speed. Read More
