By Claver Nyuki

…while US sends its condolence message

His Excellency, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has sent a heartfelt condolence message to his predecessor, former President Robert Mugabe’s passing, labelling him as the founding father of Zimbabwe, an icon of liberation and a pan-Africanist.

President Mnangagwa posted a message on his Twitter handle which said, “It is with the utmost sadness that I announce the passing on of Zimbabwe’s founding father and former President, Cde Robert Mugabe. Cde Mugabe was an icon of liberation, a pan-Africanist who dedicated his life to the emancipation and empowerment of his people. His contribution to the history of our nation and continent will never be forgotten. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

The United States (US) through its embassy in Harare, joined President Mnangagwa in mourning the former President, “The United States extends its condolences to the Mugabe family and the people of Zimbabwe as they mourn the passing of former President Robert Mugabe. We join the world in reflecting on his legacy in securing Zimbabwe’s independence.” 

South African Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader, Julius Malema also tweeted, “I'm saddened by the passing of our martyr and giant of the African Revolution cde President Robert Mugabe. Let's continue the fight and protect his legacy. We must not allow our enemies to tell us how to remember him; we know our heroes. May his soul rest in revolutionary peace.”

Kenyan Deputy President, William Samoei Ruto also posted, “Condolences to the people of Zimbabwe following the passing on of former President Robert Mugabe. Mugabe was a revolutionary freedom fighter and a liberation hero. He fought for the emancipation of his people and Zimbabwe's independence with courage, resolve and dedication.”     

The People’s Republic of China also drafted a statement mourning Mugabe, “China expresses deep mourning to the passing of Robert Mugabe, calling him an excellent leader and politician of national liberation and a defender of national sovereignty and interests, who also actively promoted China-Zimbabwe and China-Africa ties.”

The former President Mugabe’s death has shaken not only the country but the world, he shall be remembered as an icon who fought from the front to liberate Zimbabwe, and in his 37 year reign, to always put his people first.