Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has announced the posthumous declaration of former Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko as a national hero, following his death at the age of 84. Mphoko, who had been residing in India, passed away after a life marked by distinguished service to Zimbabwe, both in its liberation struggle and in post-independence governance.
President Mnangagwa expressed his deep condolences on the loss of Mphoko, a veteran of Zimbabwe’s liberation war who dedicated much of his life to the service of his country. In a statement, Mnangagwa highlighted Mphoko’s pivotal role during Zimbabwe’s liberation and his significant contributions as a leader in both government and the ruling ZANU PF party.
Mphoko’s journey began long before his political career. A logistics expert trained in the Soviet Union and other international institutions, he played a key role in ensuring the supply of essential materials to Zimbabwe’s liberation forces during the war of independence. His work in the logistics sector was integral to the success of the Zimbabwe African People’s Union (ZAPU) and later the Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU PF) forces, which were crucial in the eventual victory over colonial rule.
Mphoko also served in the Maputo liaison department of ZAPU, strengthening the party’s operations in exile during the liberation struggle. His expertise and dedication in these early years earned him the respect of his peers, marking him as one of the movement’s most reliable figures.
After Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980, Mphoko continued his service to the nation, transitioning into various governmental roles. His appointment as Vice President in 2014 by then-President Robert Mugabe was a significant milestone in his career, marking recognition of his tireless work both during and after the struggle for independence.
Following Mphoko’s death, the ZANU PF Politburo, the party’s highest decision-making body, unanimously decided to honor his legacy by conferring upon him the status of national hero. This title is reserved for individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to Zimbabwe’s liberation and its post-independence development. The party recognized Mphoko’s “meritorious role” in serving Zimbabwe both before and after independence, ensuring that his sacrifices would be immortalized as part of the country’s national history.
In his tribute, Mnangagwa underscored the importance of celebrating Mphoko’s life, which was defined by a commitment to Zimbabwe’s sovereignty and progress. “In recognition of his meritorious role of service to his country, both before and after Independence, the ZANU PF Politburo has unanimously decided and agreed to celebrate and immortalize his life of sacrifice by according him the Status of national hero,” Mnangagwa stated. “May his dear soul rest in eternal peace.”
Mphoko served as Vice President from 2014 until 2017, a period marked by political turbulence in Zimbabwe as Mugabe’s long reign neared its end. Despite the challenges, Mphoko remained a loyal figure within ZANU PF, working to uphold the party’s influence in the political landscape. Even after his tenure as Vice President, Mphoko remained active in supporting ZANU PF’s activities, including playing a key role in the party’s efforts during the 2023 national elections.
His legacy, as both a liberation hero and political figure, is one of service to the nation. Mphoko’s contributions to the development of post-independence Zimbabwe have left a lasting imprint on the country’s political history. Through his roles in government, his dedication to the ZANU PF party, and his unwavering commitment to national service, Mphoko earned the respect of many across Zimbabwe.
Phelekezela Mphoko’s death marks the end of an era for many Zimbabweans who saw him not only as a political figure but also as a symbol of the country’s struggle for independence. His posthumous recognition as a national hero reaffirms the Zimbabwean government’s commitment to honoring those who have contributed to the country’s freedom and development.
As the nation mourns the loss of one of its esteemed leaders, the decision to bestow the national hero status on Mphoko serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing those who dedicate their lives to the greater good of their nation. With his passing, Zimbabwe not only loses a political figure but also an important part of its liberation history.
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