Heroes Day provides an opportunity to reflect

**Women and youths must be afforded opportunites in mainstream mining and other economic activities**

Harry Peter Wilson

My fellow Zimbabweans, as we approach Heroes Day, due to be commemorated on August 14, 2023, we must recall that it is a day of commemoration and reflection.

It is a day on which we honour the brave individuals who fought for a free and fair Zimbabwe. There are also others who have worked hard for the development of this country, whose lives will be remembered together with the gallant sons and daughters who fought in the struggle for liberation.

The sacrifices of these gallant sons and daughters of Zimbabwe laid the foundation for the independent nation we see and enjoy today. However, it is evident that as a nation we’ve faced challenges in maintaining the spirit of a true democracy.

I, Harry Peter Wilson, as President-in-waiting - Democratic Official Party, believe it’s crucial to restore the principles of democracy, to ensure that the voices of all Zimbabweans are heard and represented.

Heroes Day reminds us of the values that guided our struggle, and it’s a call to action. We must rekindle the flame of democracy, and this upcoming election is an opportunity to steer our nation back on the path of inclusivity, transparency and progress.

The bulk of Zimbabweans are still languishing, surviving on peripheral economic activity while a few are in mainstream economic activities. The majority of the country’s omen and youths must be afforded the opportunity to play an active role in the mainstream economic activities such as mining, agriculture and manufacturing.

To the people of Zimbabwe, I urge you to remember the legacy of our heroes and heroines as exercise your right to vote. Your voice matters, and together, we can reclaim the democratic ideals that define our nation.

Let us unite, let us participate, and let our votes be the catalyst for a brighter future. GET UP, STAND UP FOR YOUR RIGHTS, and let us shape the destiny of our great Zimbabwe through the power of democracy.