Zanu-PF legislator calls for Mbeki honour

ZANU-PF Hurungwe North legislator Reuben  Marumahoko has called on Zimbabwe to honour former South African President Thabo Mbeki saying the leader was ousted for his support to the country.

Speaking at the National Assembly, Marumahoko said Mbeki made Zimbabwe what it is today.

"After we went through the 2008 elections where the regime change agenda was at play, the enemies of Africa and Zimbabwe were ready to pounce on Zimbabwe. Thanks to former President of South Africa, Thabo Mbeki that he came in and assisted in resolving the conflicts," Marumahoko said.

It is a pity that when the former President of South Africa had finished his mission that was assigned to him to bring together the parties of Zimbabwe, that is the three political parties after they had signed the agreement, he discovered that his Party had recalled him."

Marumahoko said Mbeki's crime was assisting Zimbabwe to form the unity government.

"That did not please the enemies of Africa. Madam Speaker, together with Angola, Namibia and Zimbabwe, they went to DRC and stopped the war which was started by the enemies of Africa in that country," he said.

"The enemies wanted to loot the diamonds of DRC. Mr. Mbeki is known for his quiet diplomacy which did not please the enemies of Africa. I felt it was important for Zimbabwe to recognise his contribution to our tranquility and stability in this country.

"It is important also if as a country we try probably to name one our roads like we did to Nelson Mandela and the other African leaders. This is a way of acknowledging his participation in the conflict resolution of this continent."

Marumahoko said Mbeki was ousted not because he was unwanted by South Africans but by the "enemies of Africa."

"He stood by the continent of Africa wherever the enemy of Africa wanted to destroy the good of Africa. He is a man that all of us here including the opposition should appreciate the good work he has done," Marumahoko said.

"He is a man who has contributed to the peace that we are enjoying now, but because of that, it cost him his job.

"The enemy of Africa was not happy to see Zimbabwe enjoying tranquillity and peace. They decided to destroy Thabo Mbeki. So, Madam Speaker I suggest that this country finds a way of thanking this son of the soil."