BY DESMOND CHINGARANDE/SILAS NKALA/STEPHEN CHADENGA PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday said his administration had consolidated democracy, constitutionalism and rule of law in the pursuit of social justice, but main opposition MDC Alliance and other government critics rubbished the claims saying they were being denied the freedom to truly honour their heroes. In his Heroes Day speech, Mnangagwa said his second republic had improved citizens’ lives compared to the previous administration which he said marginalised the majority. “The second republic has, since its inception, accelerated the entrenchment and consolidation of democracy, constitutionalism and the rule of law in pursuit of social justice and equal opportunities for the economic empowerment of the previously marginalised majority,” he said. “A firm foundation has been laid and continues to be strengthened for a thriving constitutional democracy, and a just, open, accountable and prosperous society.” Mnangagwa said despite challenges and attacks on the country, the future looked bright. “The 40th Heroes Day anniversary comes at a time when the second republic is accelerating our national development. This is in spite of the continued illegal sanctions imposed by some Western countries, coupled with the negative impact of climate change which has grossly affected our economic growth projections,” the Zanu PF leader said. “We must as Zimbabweans close ranks by uniting, in peace, harmony and with resolute patriotism and self-love to chart a brighter future for ourselves and for the sake of our motherland. With unfaltering determination, and emboldened by the experiences of the unrelenting attacks on our country in the past two decades, we know that the future is bright. Our success is inevitable.” Mnangagwa’s plea for unity came at a time over 30 MDC Alliance activists, among others, have reportedly fled their homes as State security agents crack down on dissent. In recent weeks, many political activists and citizens have been arrested, with others abducted and tortured by suspected State security for allegedly inciting or participating in the July 31 anti-corruption protests. However, MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa said due to rampant human rights abuses by Mnangagwa’s administration Zimbabwe had no true freedom. “Our comrades Hopewell Chin’ono, Jacob Ngarivhume and all others under persecution count on all of us for support and solidarity. There is no real or true freedom for us when fellow citizens are unjustly deprived of their freedoms,” Chamisa said. “Rights and freedoms of all Zimbabweans is our key duty, an injury to one is an injury to all. We must all stand together in peace to bring freedom, peace and justice to our land. We must have happiness, prosperity and opportunities in our lifetime. This all demands you and us all to make a difference. Zimbabwe needs you.” Former northern region Zimbabwe People’s Revolutionary Army commander Andrew Ndlovu said national events like the Heroes Day should not be politicised. “Those who died and those who
