President Mnangagwa asks Chiefs to lead Gukurahundi healing

Bulawayo (New Ziana)-President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Saturday cautioned Chiefs in Matabeleland not to tribalised the Gukurahundi disturbances of the 1980s , but instead lead efforts for national healing.

Speaking in an interface in Bulawayo, President Mnangagwa tasked Chiefs to consult widely on the issues , and come up with recommendations for remedies.

“Notably, it has been resolved that each chief will spearhead the resolution of the issue in his or her area of jurisdiction.

“This process will be victim centred and will also involve key stakeholders engagement. It was reiterated that the Gukurahundi issue should not be tribalised in order to foster nation building and national healing,” a statement issued after the meeting said.

The President said government was ready to avail resources to address the issues.

“It has been emphasized that this process will be led by Chiefs and their affected communities. The President made it clear that a one size fits all approach would be appropriate for this program.

“As a way forward, Chiefs are to go back to their respective areas to consult on the issues raised. So whichever Chief is ready, the President will deploy resources to their area to support the resolution of issues in that area,” it was noted.

The traditional leaders highlighted documentation of affected population, underdevelopment and marginalisation of the Matebeleland region ,national healing, reconciliation, counseling, consultation of victims, reburials and exhumations and compensation as some issues requiring attention.

“Regarding exhumations and reburials, this should be resolved on a case by case basis custom centric and the relevant chiefs should give guidance and directions.”

“Concerning social security benefits, these will be dealt with on a case by case basis,” the statement said.

Saturday’s meeting follows a series of engagements between government and traditional leaders to find closure on Gukurahundi issue.
New Ziana