Huge send off for former Mtapa councillor

GWERU — Hundreds of people recently thronged Mtapa Cemetery, to bid farewell to former Ward 6
Councillor, Alderman Freddy Clifford Chindedza.

Alderman Chindedza died on October 25 at Gweru Provincial Hospital. He was aged 73.
According to the deceased’s wife, Ferlistas, Alderman Chindedza succumbed to heart and kidney
failure.

The funeral service was attended by politicians from across the political divide, businesspeople,
academics, pastors and the general public.

Speakers praised the good work Alderman Chindedza did as a councillor and a Christian, who was
determined to see the development of the country in all areas. He was described as a cheerful,
humble and strong character.

In an interview, Ward 18 Councillor, William Mazango described Alderman Chindedza as an oasis of
knowledge, wisdom and high degree of political tolerance.

“The city was robbed of a father figure, astute advisor and development oriented leader who played
a pivotal role during his tenure. From the testimonials you could see that he was a people’s servant.
“Mtapa was never going to be what it is now without him. He contributed towards the development
of the city in a big way.

That is why I am here today, because development knows no political
boundary. Once leaders are elected to positions of authority, they should know that they represent
everyone regardless of their political affiliations as their decisions affect the people across the
board,” Cllr. Mazango said.

In his condolence message, former Ward 6 councillor, Joas Tsanyau who served in 2013 and 2018,
said Alderman Chindedza’s death left a void in the city.

“He was the first original Mtapa resident to be elected Zanu PF councillor, who served to the
satisfaction of residents who saw it fit to re-elect him councillor again for the second term. He is the
one such councillor who inspired me to contest as a councillor,” he said.

Alderman Chindedza served as councillor for Ward 6 from 1987 to 1997 (comprising Mtapa Sections
1, 2, 3 and 4). He was re-elected and served as councillor between 1991 to 1997. He was elevated to
the dignity of Alderman in 1997.