By Mairosi Watungwa
The unshakeable legacy of President Mnangagwa … In the face of fly by night revisionist historians attempting to distort history and tarnish the image of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, it is essential to reflect on his unblemished record as a liberator. His legacy is well-documented and preserved at the Zimbabwe Defence House, alongside those of his decorated colleagues.
President Mnangagwa’s journey to the pinnacle of state leadership began in the tumultuous era of Rhodesian rule. As a young man, he was drawn into the liberation struggle, driven by the desire for freedom and self-determination and was among the early fighters that included the likes of Dumiso Dabengwa before the ZAPU split.
He later joined the Zimbabwe African National Liberation Army (ZANLA), the military wing of the Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU), marking the beginning of his extensive career in the fight for independence. ZANLA played a significant role in the Rhodesian Bush War, employing guerrilla tactics to challenge the white minority rule in Rhodesia. One notable highlight of his involvement was participation in the Masvingo sabotage act, which included bombing a passenger train. He was initially sentenced to death, but his sentence was later commuted to 10 years imprisonment.
After his release from prison, President Mnangagwa, who was subsequently deported to Zambia, remained resolute and continued to mobilize support for the liberation struggle. His bravery and strategic thinking earned him recognition among his peers and superiors, including the late former President Robert Mugabe. Under Cde Mugabe’s leadership, Cde Mnangagwa played a pivotal role in coordinating military campaigns and building a united front against the Rhodesian government. He also honed the intelligence-gathering skills of ZANLA, contributing significantly to the liberation effort.
Following independence, President Mnangagwa’s dedication to public service led him to assume various key roles in government and the ruling party. A significant milestone was the establishment of the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO), an institution that has played a critical role in national security. With a career marked by a strong commitment to nation-building and economic development, President Mnangagwa has been instrumental in guiding Zimbabwe’s journey from a post-conflict nation to a stable and emerging economy.
Today, President Mnangagwa’s legacy as a liberator and nation-builder is unquestionable. His leadership has been characterised by initiatives aimed at driving economic growth, advancing infrastructure development, and enhancing social welfare. Despite ongoing challenges, his dedication to the people of Zimbabwe is evident. The enduring impact of his achievements serves as a lasting testament to his contributions to the nation’s development.
Despite attempts by some few misguided elements to distort history, President Mnangagwa’s record stands as a testament to his dedication. From his pivotal role in the liberation struggle to his current presidency, his life’s work reflects a consistent commitment to the nation and its people. As Zimbabwe moves forward, President Mnangagwa’s legacy will remain an enduring part of the country’s history and identity.
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