CCC says to scrap partisan conferment of hero status

Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has promised to scrap the unilateral and often partisan conferment of hero status on outstanding citizens if elected to form the next government this coming week.

In a Monday statement to mark the annual Heroes Day celebrations, party spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere said the current political unrest and economic decay under Zanu-PF is a betrayal of the fallen heroes' aspirations when they waged the struggle.

Mahere said the liberation struggle was anchored on the fight for free, fair and credible elections adding that her party valued the sacrifices of those who fought for independence.

"The political persecution of citizens, election violence, the people's masses suffering of ginger, poverty and unemployment are not what our heroes fought for," Mahere said.

"Freedom and democracy remain on trial as citizens are incarcerated.

"We call for the legacy of our heroes to be upheld through the respect all citizen's humanity dignity."

The CCC spokesperson said if voted to form the next government in elections due Wednesday next week, the party will introduce a system in which all deserving citizens are accorded hero status regardless of their background.

"In the new Zimbabwe, the award of hero status will be a nonpartisan, consultative citizen driven process that ensures that all citizens who deserve honour are duly recognised.

"A proper and accurate history of liberation struggle is taught and preserved in our education curriculum.

"We will also ensure the memory of heroes is preserved through the construction of museums and memorials and we will guarantee the welfare of war veterans."

Meanwhile, in a statement also concerning heroes' day celebrations, the leader of United Zimbabwe Alliance, Elisabeth Valerio said her party will preserve and promote the legacy of national heroes if it forms the next government.

"UZA is committed to upholding the principles of democracy, economic development and the rule of law.

"We will implement policies that unlock the perpetual crisis in Zimbabwe.

"Together, we can build a Zimbabwe that upholds the values of our fallen heroes and ensures a bright and prosperous future for all citizens," she said in a statement.

She added, "Our party pledges to improve the lives of all our living heroes and heroines and to fulfill their dreams of a new and better Zimbabwe.

"Our citizens will live in peace and unity, enjoying their fundamental freedoms and rights as enshrined in the constitution of Zimbabwe."