Opposition politicians mourn Minister Moyo

By Innocent Mujeri

Opposition leaders in Zimbabwe yesterday mourned the passing on of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Dr Sibusiso Busi Moyo, with MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa saying the late Comrade Moyo sacrificed everything to free the country from colonial bondage.

 Chamisa said he was saddened by the passing on of Dr Moyo who succumbed to Covid 19 yesterday.

“We note with sadness the passing on of Dr SB Moyo and Dr Ellen Gwaradzimba. We extend our condolences to both the Moyo and Gwaradzimba families. Our sympathies are also with Cdes Mukudzei Mudzi and Morton Malianga’s families. Both Cdes sacrificed everything to free our beloved country,” said Mr Chamisa.

President of Labour, Economists and African Democrats (LEAD) Linda Masarira said the country has lost a patriotic gallant son of the soil.

“Sad to hear that Minister S.B Moyo has passed on. My heartfelt condolences to Matanda and Moyo families. Zimbabwe has lost a sober, focused and patriotic gallant son of the soil. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” said Masarira.

Leader of Transform Zimbabwe, Jacob Ngarivhume described the passing on of Minister Moyo as a difficult time for the nation.

“My condolences to the Moyo family. This is a very difficult time. The more we lose lives the more we understand the seriousness of what we are dealing with. This is a critical moment for Zimbabwe,” said Ngarivhume.

Prominent Constitutional lawyer and president of National Constitutional Assembly, Professor Lovemore Madhuku, said the late Dr Moyo was an embodiment of courage.

“I hereby convey my deep sense of sadness and condolences to the family of our departed leader S.B Moyo. S.B Moyo was the embodiment of courage. Coming just after the sad passing of Minister Ellen Gwaradzimba, I also feel for our President Mnangagwa, who requires strength and our prayers. May his soul rest in peace,” said Prof Madhuku.

Political analyst, Tafara Shumba, said it is plausible that the opposition leaders have chosen to remove their political jackets and mourn the death of freedom fighter and national hero.

However, Shumba castigated some people, especially the MDC Alliance supporters, who were celebrating the demise of fellow Zimbabweans because they have different political beliefs.

“I’m happy that Chamisa has eventually expressed his condolences on the passing of S.B Moyo, Ellen Gwaradzimba and Mukudzei Mudzi.That gesture reflects political maturity which should cascade to his supporters who are on cloud nine over the death of ZANU PF members.

“Chamisa would do well if he sternly warns his supporters against that diabolical celebration of political rivals’ death. You win supporters through courting,” said Shumba.

Shumba further said opposition leaders should take a leaf from President Mnangagwa who puts Zimbabwe first ahead of political interest, saying the President in 2018 send condolence messages to the MDC and the Tsvangirai family following the death of Morgan Tsvangirai.

Shumba further said President Mnangagwa also sent condolence message to Chamisa following the death of his mother last year, a gesture that shows that different political beliefs should not divide people.