By Own Correspondent
On the 14th of February 2018, Zimbabwe and the world lost one of its most remarkable political figures: Morgan Tsvangirai, the founding president of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC). His death marked the end of an era for Zimbabwean politics, and a deep sense of loss reverberated across the nation and beyond.
Born on March 10, 1952, in Gutu, Zimbabwe, Tsvangirai’s life journey would become one of resilience, defiance, and undying commitment to democracy. A labor leader by trade, he rose to prominence in the 1990s when he became the Secretary-General of the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU). In the face of oppressive government policies, he spoke boldly for workers’ rights and social justice. His outspokenness against Zimbabwe’s ruling party, ZANU-PF, ultimately led him to establish the MDC in 1999, a political party dedicated to providing an alternative to the long-standing regime of President Robert Mugabe.
Tsvangirai’s political path was not without hardship. He faced intimidation, imprisonment, and brutal violence at the hands of those who opposed his ideals. Despite this, he stood resolute, never wavering in his commitment to democratic change, human rights, and the well-being of all Zimbabweans.
His leadership of the MDC was a beacon of hope for millions of Zimbabweans who were disillusioned with the status quo. Tsvangirai’s courage inspired a generation of people to believe in a better, more democratic future. He led the MDC through turbulent elections, most notably in 2008, when his party won the first-round vote but was denied victory in the subsequent run-off, after the regime resorted to extreme violence and manipulation.
Despite these challenges, Morgan Tsvangirai remained steadfast in his belief that the path to freedom and democracy could not be diverted by tyranny. His political journey was marked by both victories and defeats, but through it all, he never lost sight of his mission to establish a fair and just society for all Zimbabweans.
His most significant legacy perhaps came in the form of the coalition government that was formed in 2009. Tsvangirai entered into a power-sharing agreement with Robert Mugabe, where he became the Prime Minister. The government, though fraught with difficulties, brought a semblance of stability to Zimbabwe after years of economic collapse and political strife. This chapter was a testament to Tsvangirai’s pragmatism and commitment to ensuring Zimbabwe’s survival amidst adversity.
Tsvangirai’s passing in Johannesburg on February 14, 2018, was a moment of profound grief, not only for his family, but for all those who saw him as a symbol of hope. As the MDC mourned the loss of their leader, Zimbabweans reflected on his unyielding struggle for democracy and his role in shaping the nation’s political landscape.
Today, as we remember Morgan Tsvangirai, we honor his indelible mark on Zimbabwe’s history. He was a fighter, a democrat, and a true patriot. In the words of those who loved him, he “ran his race and fought a good fight.” His legacy lives on in the hearts of the many people who continue to strive for the ideals he stood for.
Rest in peace, Pakuru. Morgan Richard Tsvangirai, Chikara cheZanu (the Lion of Zanu), may your courage and determination never be forgotten. MHSRIP.