ZANU PF hails Batswana, BDP for support in liberation war

EPHRAIM KEORENG
Staff Writer | Tuesday February 28, 2012 00:00

Speaking on the sidelines of the Botswana Democratic Party's (BDP) 50th  anniversary celebrations at the University of Botswana stadium, Moyo told Mmegi that it was the sacrifices of the gallant sons and daughters of the BDP that contributed immensely to the liberation of Zimbabwe.

'Thousands of our people transited your great country under Batswana's protection to go for military and educational training in various countries. We shall ever remain indebted to BDP and its leadership,' he said. ZANU PF is in a coalition government with the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) and the MDC-T formation in Zimbabwe. The Robert Mugabe-led party has ruled Zimbabwe since 1980.

Makhaya added that by inviting ZANU PF to the golden jubilee celebrations, the BDP has shown that the two ruling parties enjoy a cordial and fraternal relationship, which binds the parties and the membership of each party. He said last year the BDP sent a powerful delegation to Bulawayo that delivered a moving message of solidarity that was well received by ZANU PF's more than 6,000 delegates.

'We cherish such brotherhood and sisterhood for Botswana and Zimbabwe share a common border, common history, common culture and indeed a common destiny,' he said.

The ZANU PF leader said Botswana, as a member of SADC, continues to play a pivotal role to support Zimbabwe in all forms, including the current government of national unity between ZANU PF and the MDC.

'We are looking forward to the early conclusion of the draft constitution leading to a referendum and harmonised elections. We know that the BDP and its leadership will always stand by us as you have been steadfast in calling for the removal of illegal economic sanctions on us by the west because of our land reform programme,' he said.

Makhaya said they have embarked on the indigenisation and economic empowerment of the Zimbabwean people.

He urged that as the region is besieged by challenges like HIV/AIDS, poverty, hunger and unemployment, there is need to find lasting solutions to ensure regional security, peace and stability.

'Our quest for economic freedom should be guided by African principles and values. It is of paramount importance that as Africans we guard jealously our right and space to define our own leaders and governments without outside interference,' he said.