Gukurahundi: ED says seeking lasting solution

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PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has praised progress made towards the launch of the Gukurahundi public hearings, which are expected to start in the first quarter of the year. He reaffirmed the Second Republic’s dedication to finding a lasting solution to the emotive issue, with victims at the centre of the process.

The public hearings, which will be led by chiefs in their communities, aim to address the legacy of Gukurahundi, a period of violence and conflict that affected some parts of Matabeleland and Midlands provinces in the 1980s.

President Mnangagwa has shown his commitment to facilitating processes that will bring closure to post-independence conflicts, as part of his vision of nation-building and fostering national unity.

He delivered his keynote address during the fourth interface with chiefs from the Matabeleland region at State House in Bulawayo yesterday. He said his administration was determined to ensure the process was efficient and vigorous, with the best interests of the people in mind.

“I cannot over-emphasise the fact that this initiative is being implemented for the benefit of our people. Our commitment to a victim-centred approach remains steadfast, ensuring that the process is not just efficient but also emphatic,” he said.

The meeting was the fourth of its kind between President Mnangagwa and the Chiefs Council, as the Government continues to work towards strengthening peace and harmony in the country.

President Mnangagwa said his administration embarked on the initiative to pursue the resolution of the Gukurahundi issue through an internal and home-grown process in February 2019, as part of the Second Republic’s efforts to maintain and strengthen national unity among Zimbabweans.

He said after extensive consultation with all stakeholders, he decided to entrust the National Council of Chiefs, through its selected members, to spearhead the initiative.