by Bernard Mutambudzi

Commander Defence Forces (CDF), General Philip Valerio Sibanda has urged Zimbabweans to live together in harmony and respect the sanctity of life.

General Sibanda made these remarks while addressing hundreds of mourners at Glen Forest yesterday at the burial of late James Chimedza, the father to Dr Jasper Chimedza, the Air Commodore in the Airforce of Zimbabwe.

“We join you in mourning James Chimedza and as the army, we come from the masses, we are inseparable from the masses,” said the Defence boss.

General Sibanda said it was important for people to retrospect on their lives and remain committed to God as this was the life of the late Chimedza who was a prayer warrior.

“Everybody should ask himself or herself what contribution he or she is making to the community and the country at large,” said Gen Sibanda.

He encouraged Zimbabweans to do things that they cherish for their beloved nation.

“When you die, are people going to say, good riddance or cry that they have lost a helpful person?” said Gen Sibanda.

He promised the Chimedza family that the army would do everything possible to comfort Jasper.

“We are working very well with your hardworking son, and the army would always cherish the good mentorship he got from the man we are burying today,” said Gen Sibanda.

He said people should now unite and work towards a Zimbabwe desired by all citizens.

Dr Jasper Chimedza played a pivotal role in diagnosing that President Mnangagwa was poisoned during the so called Meet the people rallies organised by the former First lady Grace Mugabe. He recommended the President to seek further medical attention in South Africa.

Among high ranking officials who attended the burial were, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence, Martin Rushwaya, Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, General Edzayi Chakanyuka Chimonyo and Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS), Commissioner General,  Retired Major General Paradzai Zimhondi.