The passing of liberation stalwart Jaison William Chezhira Chakaipa Chirinda, who was conferred with national hero status, serves as a poignant reminder to figures like British Conservative leader losing candidate Robert Jenrick that former colonies owe no gratitude to the colonial legacy marred by exploitation and systemic injustices.
Chirinda, who died on 27 October 2024 at the age of 82, was unanimously accorded National Hero status by an Extraordinary ZANU-PF Politburo meeting chaired by His Excellencu President Mnangagwa.
He will be laid to rest at the National Shrine on 4 November 2024, in recognition of his enduring legacy.
A decorated military cadre, Chirinda was instrumental in the first armed confrontation against Rhodesian forces in the Sinoia area, now Chinhoyi, where he led one of the two groups deployed in an offensive against the oppressors. During the 34th anniversary celebrations of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces in 2014, Chirinda was among 21 pioneers awarded the prestigious Liberation and Independence Medals. His fellow honorees included Cdes John Makwasha, Loice Chimimba Chuma, Pilate Dube, Saul Gwakuba Ndlovu, and Sibongile Ncube Matavire, along with several other liberation heroes and heroines who paved the way to freedom.
As we commemorate the sacrifices of our heroes, it is essential to recognize that the mindset of colonialists like Robert Jenrick remains entrenched—a reality echoed by King Baudouin’s notorious speech in 1960, praising colonial rule at Congo’s independence celebration. Baudouin’s words, claiming that Congo’s independence was a result of King Leopold II’s “courage and tenacity,” overlook the tragic history of exploitation and violence that claimed millions of lives. In contrast, Congolese Prime Minister Patrice Lumumba delivered a powerful address, denouncing colonialism and its devastating impact on the people of Congo.
Leaders like Jenrick must come to terms with the painful history of colonialism and the ongoing impact it has had on former colonies. Rather than expecting gratitude, they should focus on fostering reconciliation and making amends. True acknowledgement of the struggle for independence should include recognizing the need for reparations for the harm inflicted upon nations like Zimbabwe.
In defiance of Baudouin’s patronizing address, Chirinda and his generation of Zimbabwean youth sacrificed their early years to secure their country’s freedom. Honoring his legacy requires vigilance and unity among Zimbabweans to protect our hard-won independence. President Mnangagwa has emphasized that consolidating this independence requires disciplined focus on economic development and improving citizens’ quality of life. This call is a reminder that Zimbabweans have come a long way since 1980 and that, despite setbacks, resilience and pride in our heritage must drive us forward.
Cde Chirinda’s selfless patriotism serves as a lasting inspiration, especially to Zimbabwe’s youth, reminding them of the courage and devotion needed to secure a brighter future.
By following in his footsteps, young Zimbabweans can help build a nation founded on resilience, unity, and a commitment to the values that our heroes fought to uphold.
