President meets Chief’s Council on Gukurahundi res...

President meets Chief’s Council on Gukurahundi resolution

Oscar J Jeke

President Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday met the National Chief’s Council at State House in Bulawayo to discuss the Gukurahundi consultation preparedness.

This comes as the government took the initiative to resolve the disputes arising from the post-independence conflict, which has left a mark on national unity and relations.

In his address, the President reiterated that he is dedicated to the resolution of the Gukurahundi issue, to which he announced that the budget for the community outreach programme is in place, thereby ensuring the need for closure to those affected.

“The dedication to the resolution of the Gukurahundi issue is unwavering. We understand the depth of the pain and the need for closure,” the President said.

He further asserted that the task of reconciliation was given to the National Chief’s Council as they are the custodians of culture and traditional values, hence the process requires internal and home-grown processes.

“After extensive consultations with all stakeholders, I took a decision to mandate the National Chief’s Council, through selected members, to spearhead this very sensitive initiative. This initiative is meant to resolve this issue through internal and home-grown processes,” the President added.

Speaking at the same event, National Chief’s Council President Senator, Chief Mtshane Khumalo assured the president of their preparedness for the consultations with all chiefs from the 14 districts in Matabeleland North and South having been trained.

“72 chiefs from Matabeleland North and South were trained. 31 are from Mat South and 31 from Mat North. There is a steering committee of 12. All in all there are 14 districts involved,” Chief Khumalo said.