News / National
Mphoko kept a low profile
09 Dec 2024 at 06:53hrs | Views
The opposition Zapu party has paid tribute to the late former Vice-President Phelekezela Mphoko, who passed away last week at the age of 84, describing him as a humble individual who maintained a low profile despite his significant contributions to the country, particularly during the liberation struggle.
Mphoko died in India on Friday, with his daughter, Siduduzile, confirming via a Facebook post that he had succumbed to pulmonary embolism. His passing was accompanied by the presence of his wife, Laurinda, daughters, and grandson Daluthando. President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared Mphoko a national hero in recognition of his service to the country.
Zapu, in its condolence message, reflected on Mphoko's journey, noting that he was thrust into the public spotlight when he was appointed Vice-President in 2014. However, just three years later, Mphoko was ousted during the military coup that led to the downfall of long-time President Robert Mugabe. Following his removal, Mphoko retreated from the limelight, leading a private life away from politics.
"Swiftly declared a national hero, the enigmatic life of Mphoko will continue to puzzle and confound questioning spirits. Nevertheless, his revolutionary contributions and service to his country will remain indelible," said Zapu spokesperson Richard Gandari.
Meanwhile, former liberation war fighter Chanda Chose, who served alongside Mphoko at the Morogoro Training Camp in Tanzania during the struggle, expressed sadness at the loss of his Zipra colleague. "I have fond memories of our time together, fighting side by side against the Rhodesian Army. His legacy will live on in our hearts, and I am grateful for the role he played in our country's struggle for independence," Chose said.
However, Ibhetshu likaZulu Secretary-General Mbuso Fuzwayo expressed regret over Mphoko's treatment during the 2017 military coup, which he believes perpetuated tribal politics. "Mphoko's suffering during the coup must not be downplayed. He suffered up to the end of his life, forced to play servitude to the throne to guarantee his welfare," Fuzwayo said. He added that Mphoko's experiences served as a reminder of the need for constitutional protections for the weak and vulnerable against the powerful.
Mphoko's role during the liberation struggle was crucial, particularly in his capacity as Zipra's Chief of Logistics, where he was deputized by retired Colonel Thomas Ngwenya. However, his tenure as Vice-President was marked by tension, particularly with the faction loyal to Mnangagwa. Mphoko was seen by some as an ally of former First Lady Grace Mugabe, and his relationship with Mnangagwa's supporters was often contentious. Mphoko's public statements, including his controversial comments about Gukurahundi and his refusal to accept a government house worth US$1 million, sparked criticism, particularly from the Matabeleland region.
Mphoko's last public appearance was in October 2024, when he participated in Anti-Sanctions Day in Bulawayo. Despite his later years being marked by political turmoil, his legacy as a liberation hero and a national figure is firmly established.
Mphoko died in India on Friday, with his daughter, Siduduzile, confirming via a Facebook post that he had succumbed to pulmonary embolism. His passing was accompanied by the presence of his wife, Laurinda, daughters, and grandson Daluthando. President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared Mphoko a national hero in recognition of his service to the country.
Zapu, in its condolence message, reflected on Mphoko's journey, noting that he was thrust into the public spotlight when he was appointed Vice-President in 2014. However, just three years later, Mphoko was ousted during the military coup that led to the downfall of long-time President Robert Mugabe. Following his removal, Mphoko retreated from the limelight, leading a private life away from politics.
"Swiftly declared a national hero, the enigmatic life of Mphoko will continue to puzzle and confound questioning spirits. Nevertheless, his revolutionary contributions and service to his country will remain indelible," said Zapu spokesperson Richard Gandari.
Meanwhile, former liberation war fighter Chanda Chose, who served alongside Mphoko at the Morogoro Training Camp in Tanzania during the struggle, expressed sadness at the loss of his Zipra colleague. "I have fond memories of our time together, fighting side by side against the Rhodesian Army. His legacy will live on in our hearts, and I am grateful for the role he played in our country's struggle for independence," Chose said.
However, Ibhetshu likaZulu Secretary-General Mbuso Fuzwayo expressed regret over Mphoko's treatment during the 2017 military coup, which he believes perpetuated tribal politics. "Mphoko's suffering during the coup must not be downplayed. He suffered up to the end of his life, forced to play servitude to the throne to guarantee his welfare," Fuzwayo said. He added that Mphoko's experiences served as a reminder of the need for constitutional protections for the weak and vulnerable against the powerful.
Mphoko's role during the liberation struggle was crucial, particularly in his capacity as Zipra's Chief of Logistics, where he was deputized by retired Colonel Thomas Ngwenya. However, his tenure as Vice-President was marked by tension, particularly with the faction loyal to Mnangagwa. Mphoko was seen by some as an ally of former First Lady Grace Mugabe, and his relationship with Mnangagwa's supporters was often contentious. Mphoko's public statements, including his controversial comments about Gukurahundi and his refusal to accept a government house worth US$1 million, sparked criticism, particularly from the Matabeleland region.
Mphoko's last public appearance was in October 2024, when he participated in Anti-Sanctions Day in Bulawayo. Despite his later years being marked by political turmoil, his legacy as a liberation hero and a national figure is firmly established.
Source - newsday
