KEY POINTS
- Mnangagwa honors late VP Nkomo, calling him a champion of peace.
- Nkomo’s leadership legacy emphasized unity, healing, and national development.
- Zimbabweans encouraged to embrace peace as a pillar towards the development of the country.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has paid tribute to the late Vice President Dr. John Landa Nkomo, describing him as a revolutionary, a nation-builder, and a dedicated advocate for peace.
In celebrating the 12th anniversary of Nkomo’s death, Mnangagwa lauded Nkomo’s contribution towards the development of Zimbabwe especially his unwavering commitment to unity.
In a statement on Wednesday, Mnangagwa highlighted Nkomo’s passion for education, his forthright approach to politics, and his ability to spearhead lasting developmental projects in his rural Tsholotsho District and beyond.
“Dr. Landa Nkomo embodied patriotism and a tireless commitment to unity and peace,” Mnangagwa said “His mantra, ‘Peace begins with me. Peace begins with you. Peace begins with all of us,’ remains a guiding principle for our nation.”
A legacy of leadership and service
Dr. Nkomo held several key positions during his career, starting from his service in ministerial roles from 1981 to 2002.
As mentioned by ZBC News, he was elected Speaker of Parliament in 2005 and then was appointed Minister of State in the President’s Office Responsible for National Healing, Reconciliation, and Integration.
Nkomo also served as the National Chairperson for ZANU PF in 2009 and acted as the Vice President in Zimbabwe up to his death in 2013.
His work also continually underlined the need for peace, healing, and national rebuilding, and thus shapes the political and social agenda of Zimbabwe.
Cherishing peace and unity in Nkomo’s memory
Mnangagwa urged people to emulate Nkomo by embracing peace and tranquility in Zimbabwe.
He stressed that these principles have become foundational to the developmental progress of the country.
“As we remember Dr. Nkomo, we must continue to cherish the peace and unity that define Zimbabwe’s trajectory,” Mnangagwa urged.
