War vets elect new leadership, pledge business unusual approach to welfare
Nevanji Munyaradzi Chiondegwa
Former liberation war fighters under the auspices of the National Executive of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) held a Congress over the weekend and elected a new leadership.
The congress follows the expiration of the term of the new Minister of War Veterans Affairs, Cde Christopher Mutsvangwa.
The new ZNLWVA leadership comprises of Cde Andrease Ethan Mathibela who was elected Chairman, Cde Blessed Runesu Gezawho is the Vice Chairman, Cde Edward Dube who was elected Secretary General, Cde Livingstone Chineka who is the new Secretary for Finance, Cde Aloise Chimeri the Secretary for Publicity and Information, Cde Karen Kazingizi and Secretary for Welfare.
After their election, the new leadership thanked the war veterans community for entrusting them with the honour and task of representing their interests and aspirations. The new Executive takes off with a defined road map emanating from the Congress resolutions and is no longer the traditional “business as usual” method.
The congress declaration they issued said, “We recognize and salute the immeasurable sacrifices you made during our liberation struggle. Your unwavering bravery, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of freedom and justice have shaped the destiny of our nation. It is through your sacrifices that we stand proud as a sovereign and independent Zimbabwe today.”
They pledged to serve saying; “As the elected leaders of the ZNLWVA, we pledge our unwavering commitment to the welfare, rights, and well-being of our esteemed war veteran community. Your needs, concerns, and aspirations will remain at the forefront of our agenda as we work tirelessly to ensure that your sacrifices are duly recognized and appreciated.”
They went on to say, “We understand the challenges you face, and we are dedicated to advocating for your social, economic, and psychological well-being. We will engage with relevant stakeholders to address issues such as land healthcare, housing, education, entrepreneurship opportunities, and financial support. Your well-being is our priority, and we will leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of a better quality of life for all war veterans.”
The ZNLWVA leadership said that they recognized that their responsibility extended beyond our war veteran community and therefore committed to fostering unity, reconciliation, and nation-building. They said they will actively engage with other sectors of society to promote dialogue, understanding, and cooperation and believed that by working together, we can build a stronger, more prosperous Zimbabwe for future generations.
They extended a hand in partnership and collaboration to the nation at large stating that they understood the importance of a united nation, where the wounds of the past are healed, and where all citizens can prosper and thrive. They further encouraged all Zimbabweans to join them in their efforts to build bridges of understanding, tolerance, and inclusivity to can create a society that upholds the values of justice, equality, and respect for all.
The declaration said. “In conclusion, we express our profound gratitude for the trust and confidence placed in us. We are humbled by the opportunity to serve you, our war veteran community, and the nation. We embark on this journey with a deep sense of purpose, guided by the principles that have defined our liberation struggle.”
Echoing the message of the Second Republic under President ED Mnangagwa, they said, “Let us move forward together, remembering the sacrifices of the past while embracing the opportunities of the future. Together, we will build a stronger, more prosperous Zimbabwe, where the voices of our war veterans and all citizens are heard and respected.”
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