by Christopher Makaza

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said that economic malpractices that are rampant within the economy are set to end as his administration steps up efforts to protect the generality of the people from economic vampires who want citizens to suffer.

The President was speaking at the National Heroes Acre today, at the burial of the late Cde Stanley Gagisa Nleya, who died last Tuesday in Bulawayo.

 “On the evident economic malpractices that are present in various forms, my Government will never shy away from implementing policies and measures that ensure that the honest workers of our country live honourably. We shall not allow a situation where our people live in chronic insecurity, lack and deprivation has become apparent that in our midst, there are wolves in sheep’s clothing. The end is coming,” said President Mnangagwa.

President Mnangagwa further challenged those in positions of authority in all sectors of society to be honest and exemplary putting the interests of the majority ahead of personal interests.

He also bemoaned corruption and dishonesty saying the growth of the country’s economy is hinged on hard working.

The President, while reiterating Government’s commitment to uplifting people’s lives, also calls for unity and harmony saying these were the cornerstone for development.

The Head of State and Government also said the challenges that are currently bedevilling the country are not insurmountable and urged  people to draw  inspiration from war veterans who did not surrender despite many challenges they faced. 

Speaking on the late Cde Nleya, the President said the national hero leaves behind “a legacy of dedication, selflessness and commitment to principles”.

President Mnangagwa told mourners that Cde Nleya was dedicated to the cause and had great leadership qualities which made him “a revered soldier who moulded and inspired many freedom fighters”.

Cde Nleya received his military training at Morogoro in Tanzania in 1969 and rose through the ranks to become an instructor.

As an instructor some of the people who went through his hands are decorated freedom fighters such as the current Zimbabwe Defence Forces commander, General Philip Valerio Sibanda, Todd Mpisi, Rodwell Nyika (Retired Brigadier-General Collins Moyo), former St Paul’s Assembly Point commander and frontal commander for NF1 and 2, Cde Nicholas Nkomo (Gilbert Khumalo).

At independence, he led the demobilisation process before being integrated into the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) where he served as one of the senior commanders. When he left the ZNA, Cde Nleya worked for Hwange Colliery Company as a buyer.

At the time of his death, Cde Nleya  was working for a liquor franchise run by his nephew and Highlanders Football Club treasurer, Donald Ndebele.

He is survived by his wife who is based in the United Kingdom and four children.