By Desire Tshuma
MVURWI — Citizens Against Economic Sanctions (CAES) has hailed President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s leadership, with the organisation using his birthday celebrations in Mvurwi, Mashonaland Central, to renew its call for the removal of sanctions and rally support for the Government’s development agenda.
Thousands of people converged in Mvurwi on 15 September for the President’s birthday celebrations, where CAES Interim Board Chairman Ellison Muchenje, popularly known as Samuriwo, described Mnangagwa’s leadership as a key driver of national unity and development.
Muchenje said CAES, which he claimed has nearly one million members across Zimbabwe, was proud to join citizens gathered in Mashonaland Central to mark the occasion.
“On behalf of Citizens Against Economic Sanctions, we want to wish our President, Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, a happy birthday from Mvurwi where the main celebration was held,” Muchenje said.
He said Mnangagwa had remained firm in opposing sanctions, which CAES blames for economic hardships faced by Zimbabweans.
“He has been firm in fighting against illegal sanctions and has kept the country united and focused on development,” he said.
Muchenje said the President’s stance against sanctions had given ordinary Zimbabweans a platform to voice their concerns, adding that the country remained focused on achieving Vision 2030.
The CAES chairman also praised businesspeople who supported activities held to mark the President’s birthday, saying their contributions demonstrated private-sector participation in community and national development.
He singled out businessman Dr Kuda Tagwirei for sponsoring a football match held as part of the celebrations, saying the initiative promoted youth participation and unity through sport.
Muchenje also commended Presidential Advisor Dr Paul Tungwarara for supporting community development initiatives, while Mabvuku legislator and Scotland Football Club owner Scott Sakupwanya was praised for his involvement in football development and youth empowerment.
Businessman Wicknell Chivhayo was also recognised for his philanthropic activities, including reported donations to churches, artists and individuals.
Muchenje said the contributions reflected the philosophy, “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo, Ilizwe lakhiwa ngabaninilo,” which calls for citizens to take an active role in building the country.
CAES said it would continue campaigning for the removal of sanctions while mobilising citizens to participate in national development initiatives.