Bernard Mutambudzi

Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA), spokesperson Cde Douglas Mahiya said that his organisation had lost a leader and commander who will always be remembered by every Zimbabwean.

During a press conference today at ZANU-PF headquarters, Mahiya described the late veteran of the liberation struggle, Dr Dumiso Dabengwa as a leader of all times.

“I was an active participant who brought up the New Dispensation and Dabengwa would be giving us directions and necessary input," revealed Mahiya.

Mahiya described the late as a principled leader.

"War Veterans recognises the role he played to bring the Zimbabwe we are all enjoying," said Mahiya.

“The history of Zimbabwe would be incomplete if it does not put into account the immense role Dabengwa played," said Mahiya.

Cde Mahiya said war veterans had been touched by the loss of Dabengwa whom they sought for guidance because of his military prowess.

"Dabengwa was intelligence cadre who was trained in Russia," said Mahiya.

Cde Mahiya revealed to this publication that before Dabengwa died, he had said, “Now that war veterans both in ZIPRA and ZANLA are working together, l am ready to die."

He said where ever the late comrade is, he was certain that he was resting in peace after the roadmap for the revolutionary has been fulfilled.

He said Dabengwa was always guided by principles of revolutionary.

“Dabengwa would always be able to read the mind of the enemy, and necessary action taken, such he was, a supremo," said Mahiya.

He said Dabengwa was a member of Zambezi Water Project because he wanted to make Matebeleland green.

“He needed people to produce and provide raw materials for the agro based industries," said Mahiya.

He said the status of heroes does not lie in the purview of War veterans but the Politburo.

Bulawayo province War veterans Association, Mahiya said, may write their position in relation to hero status of the late icon.

“I don't want to comment on the heroes status of Dabengwa, it is done by higher authority, but if Bulawayo writes a recommendation, let it be, but as war veterans, Dabengwa remains our Commander of all times," said Mahiya