Source: Govt open to recognising Cross Jotsholo massacre site as national liberation shrine – herald
Sikhumbuzo Moyo Senior Reporter
VICE-PRESIDENT Kembo Mohadi says the Government is prepared to formally recognise the site of the 1979 Cross Jotsholo massacre in Matabeleland North, where 11 Zimbabwe People’s Revolutionary Army (Zpra) guerrillas were killed during the liberation struggle.Responding to a question from Zimpapers during a media briefing after commissioning the Kasambabezi Border Post in Binga on Friday, VP Mohadi said sites of historical significance linked to Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle should not be overlooked, but proposals for their recognition must follow the established Government processes.
He said such matters should first be channelled through the relevant Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution before being referred to the Presidium for consideration.
The Cross Jotsholo massacre occurred in 1979 when 22 Zpra guerrillas travelling aboard a Pullen bus under the command of Cde Moses Moyo were ambushed by Rhodesian security forces less than a kilometre from the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road while en route to St Paul’s Assembly Point.
Eleven of the combatants were killed in the attack, while the remaining 11 escaped.
Surviving Zpra fighters have long maintained that the ambush may have been facilitated by betrayal.
Three years ago, Cde Moyo, now a farmer in Nyamandlovu, Umguza District, recalled the events of that day, saying the survivors had always suspected the bus driver.
“When the helicopter surfaced, the driver opened his door, jumped off and took flight. He was never to be seen again,” said Cde Moyo.
Forty-six years after the ambush, the fallen liberation fighters remain buried in a mass grave that has no formal monument, with only a few railway posts surrounding a tree to indicate their burial spot.
Over the years, concerned citizens and former freedom fighters have appealed to Government to preserve and develop the site into a national liberation heritage shrine through the construction of a monument, installation of road signage and improvement of access to the area.
VP Mohadi said Government was willing to consider the proposal once it is formally submitted through the appropriate channels.
“Bring such matters through the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, who will then raise it with us. I happen to chair State Occasions, Monuments and Awards,” he said.
He said Zimbabwe had consistently honoured the country’s liberation history by erecting monuments both locally and in neighbouring countries where liberation fighters operated during the armed struggle.
“Tell us about such. We can’t ignore,” said VP Mohadi.
His remarks were welcomed by residents of Cross Jotsholo, who said they had long hoped the site would receive official recognition befitting the sacrifice made by the fallen liberation fighters.
Mr Mjimei Sibanda said the site had remained unrecognised despite its historical significance.
“Many people pass through this area without knowing that some of the country’s brave sons lost their lives here. We want the place to be properly marked and preserved so that future generations understand the history of the liberation struggle,” he said.
Another villager, Mr Tjulano Tshuma, said formal recognition of the site would not only honour the fallen combatants but also promote heritage tourism in the area.
“These gallant fighters gave their lives for the freedom we enjoy today. It is only proper that their resting place is protected and accorded the respect it deserves. A monument and proper signage would ensure their sacrifice is never forgotten,” he said.
VP Mohadi’s remarks are expected to reignite calls for the Cross Jotsholo massacre site to be declared a national liberation heritage shrine, ensuring that the sacrifice of the eleven fallen Zpra combatants is permanently commemorated for future generations.
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