Zipra wary of conditions for properties return

Zimbabwe People's Revolutionary Army (Zipra) war veterans have raised concerns about the conditions set for the return of their properties, fearing that the required information might expose them to potential attacks. These concerns were discussed during a recent Zipra war veterans meeting in Bulawayo.

War veterans are being asked to provide information such as pseudonyms, country of training, assembly point, area of specialization, regional commander, names of training instructors, operational area, and bank account details on a form. Some war veterans believe this registration process feels like vetting, and they question the logic of disclosing their pseudonyms from the war, fearing that this information could be shared with former adversaries.

They argue that sharing this information could jeopardize their safety. They also expressed concerns about the delay in receiving compensation and complained that the body managing the properties is unconstitutional, recognizing only the one constituted by the Zipra War Veterans Association.

A senior former Zipra commander, Thomas Ngwenya, believes the government is deliberately avoiding awarding compensation to war veterans. He pointed out that they received benefits such as cars, allowances, and monthly fuel allowances but not direct compensation.

The war veterans are eager to start projects for their children using the compensation money before they pass away, but the government's delays are causing frustration.

On the other hand, Volta Moyo, the chairperson of the Zipra Properties Board, clarified that the conditions on the form were agreed upon by the leadership, and the board is legally responsible for managing the return of properties, formed after dissolving the committee at Stanley Square.