Veteran Zapu cadre quits active politics

Veteran nationalist and long-serving Zapu cadre Andrew Ndlovu has formally announced his retirement from active politics, effective immediately, as he approaches his 70th birthday next year. In a letter addressed to Zapu president Sibangilizwe Nkomo, Ndlovu stated that he would be stepping back to dedicate more time to his family, fellow war veterans, and community initiatives. He requested that his name be removed from all party positions but confirmed that he would continue participating in community development projects.

Having been part of Zapu since the liberation struggle, Ndlovu said his decision to retire was driven both by age and a desire to groom younger leaders, ensuring a smooth transition within the party while avoiding internal strife. He warned that Zimbabwe's political history is marred by leaders being "chased away" rather than allowed to hand over power properly, a practice that he said erodes institutions and tarnishes legacies.

"I'm trying to introduce that legacy should be left in peace, not through fights," Ndlovu told Southern Eye on Sunday. "Check what happened to Rugare Gumbo, to former president Robert Mugabe- they were chased away. The legacy now has no proper handover."

Ndlovu emphasized that Zapu must allow younger members to take charge while the older generation provides guidance rather than clinging to positions. "My age now requires me to groom these youngsters so they run the politics. We opened doors for them, and they need to feel they have been given a legacy," he said.

A long-time advocate for war veterans' welfare, Ndlovu said he plans to refocus his energy on community development and improving the conditions of ex-combatants. "As it is, I am active in the community. I chair development committees and continue fighting for the welfare of war veterans, just like we did during the era of Dr Hunzvi," he said. He noted that some veterans vetted in 2022 and 2023 have yet to receive their entitlements and vowed to continue advocating for their welfare.

Despite retiring from active politics, Ndlovu said he remains available for national service, including representing war veterans in Parliament under their 20 percent quota if needed. "I now have full freedom, unlike before when I had to concentrate my power in an organisation, which I revived and put all systems in place. Now it's for the young people to carry on properly while we advise," he said.

Reflecting on his long career, Ndlovu described himself as part of a generation that shaped Zapu's modern identity alongside the late Dumiso Dabengwa and other stalwarts. "The legacy of Zapu is me, Tshave, Dabengwa, and others who pulled out. I have done my best," he said.