A faction of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association, led by Andrease Ethan Mathibela, has condemned recent political pledges of funeral cover for ex-combatants, describing the offer as insulting. The statement responded to businessman and Zanu PF central committee member Kudakwashe Tagwirei, who proposed the policies at a party meeting. The association asserted that war veterans require genuine economic empowerment, not burial benefits, which it views as a trivialization of their sacrifices.
Mathibela emphasized that true empowerment includes land title deeds, healthcare access, business capital, and dignified pensions. He characterized the funeral policy proposal as a sign of disrespect and a misunderstanding of the liberation struggle's legacy. The group also demanded that politicians cease using veterans as instruments in internal party campaigns.
This criticism highlights ongoing grievances over the welfare of ex-combatants, who feel neglected despite constitutional promises of recognition and support.
Mathibela emphasized that true empowerment includes land title deeds, healthcare access, business capital, and dignified pensions. He characterized the funeral policy proposal as a sign of disrespect and a misunderstanding of the liberation struggle's legacy. The group also demanded that politicians cease using veterans as instruments in internal party campaigns.
This criticism highlights ongoing grievances over the welfare of ex-combatants, who feel neglected despite constitutional promises of recognition and support.
