The opposition has once again seized an opportunity to criticize the Government, this time over the use of a “freight coffin” for the late National Hero, former Vice President Cde Phelekezela Mphoko.
This manufactured outrage mirrors earlier uproars surrounding the similar transport arrangement used for the late former President Robert Mugabe. Instead of respecting the purpose of the coffin as a practical and dignified means of transporting the deceased, opposition activists have chosen to politicize the matter, distorting it into an attack on the Government.
It must be emphasized that a coffin, regardless of its design, serves a singular purpose: to carry a body to its final resting place. The “freight coffin” is not intended as a final resting place but is a practical and effective solution to the logistical challenges of transporting a deceased person, particularly over long distances. Opposition activists conveniently ignore this fact, turning a practical arrangement into a supposed symbol of disrespect. Such arguments are not only baseless but also a disrespectful attempt to undermine the dignity of a departed national hero.
Rather than recognizing Cde Mphoko’s faithful service to the nation, the opposition has chosen to politicize the transportation of his remains, creating unnecessary division and controversy. The real issue lies not in the coffin but in the blatant political opportunism displayed by opposition activists. Instead of focusing on Cde Mphoko’s contributions to Zimbabwe’s liberation and development, they have fixated on a trivial matter, using it to score cheap political points.
The incessant criticism surrounding the use of a freight coffin ignores the Government’s commitment to ensuring the dignity of national heroes. Logistical factors such as cost, practicality, and time constraints are central to decisions on body transportation. The Government has consistently provided appropriate burial coffins for dignified send-offs, demonstrating respect for the deceased and their legacy. To suggest otherwise is a gross misrepresentation of reality.
What is most concerning is the opposition’s inability to rise above petty politics. The late Cde Mphoko, like other national heroes, deserves recognition and respect for his role in the liberation struggle and his contributions to the nation. Activists who choose to focus on an inanimate object rather than his legacy betray their lack of constructive dialogue and priorities.
Moreover, the opposition’s relentless criticism of the Government over trivial issues is symptomatic of a broader unwillingness to engage in meaningful discussions about national development. Instead of wasting energy on insignificant controversies, they should focus on how Zimbabwe can collectively honour its heroes and build a better future.
The Government has made it clear that the memory and legacy of national heroes remain a priority. While the freight coffin is a temporary solution, it does not detract from the ultimate respect afforded to Cde Mphoko or others who served the nation. What truly matters is the legacy of the person being honoured, not the container used during their journey to their final resting place.
As a nation, it is imperative to rise above petty squabbles and prioritize the commemoration of those who fought for Zimbabwe’s independence and freedom.
The use of a freight coffin, whether simple or elaborate, should not overshadow the enduring contributions of our national heroes.
Let us remember that symbols are secondary to the principles and sacrifices of those they represent. Cde Mphoko deserves our gratitude, not opportunistic political attacks.
