The leader of the Youth Advocacy for Reform and Democracy organisation, Temba Mliswa has told the youth that they should fight all government abductions.
In his new year message the former ZANU PF strongman said that the abduction of Itai Dzamara must not be repeated and youths have the power to block them. His statement came as two YARD activists Obert Masaraure and Pride Mukono were attacked by police officers in Harare – CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.
Beginning his speech (below), Mliswa said 2016 will be a year of determining factors.
Below was his full message:
I greet you in the spirit of 2016 and trust that we all crossed over with Grace.
“There is nothing more powerful than an idea whose time has come”… Victor Hugo.
2015 indeed marked a year of many changes and tumultuous experiences for me. I lost my Chairmanship of Mashonaland West Province, was expelled from ZANU PF and further lost my seat as an MP for Hurungwe West, all in a short space of time. However little did I know that the Lord was not finished with me yet and had a greater plan for my life and destiny!
I became a tool for growth and direction to the youth through the Youth Advocacy for Reform & Democracy (YARD) where I now impart my experiences and knowledge to mobilise the youth to make a better tomorrow for themselves through active participation and representation in local and national elective offices and to be a determining factor in the political landscape.
This is not about me, it is beyond that, as you, the youth discover that you are the driving force of the future and can make Zimbabwe into a powerhouse. Our most strongest resource is human and Zimbabwe is blessed with intellectual human resources. However this intellect is nothing without courage and you must be courageous to make a peaceful stand with the country’s constitution as your guiding principle, mapping your processes and procedures as you become the drivers of your own destiny.
We need to see an change in the mindset and operations of the executive, judiciary and legislative arms of this country. You are the millenials and it is time to occupy your space. I cannot regret my experiences as I know they were for a greater plan and Holy Spirit driven and I am grateful for the energy that God has bestowed upon me.
Democracy is key in restoring the credibility and leadership in our country. There is nothing wrong with the centre of power if it follows and is guided by the constitution and that they maintain the mandate from the people. The Itai Dzamara abduction could happen to anyone and ours is to ensure a democratic and more secure Zimbabwe for our children and their children’s children for generations to come. Today, whilst others celebrate a family has no father, has lost a bread winner and knows not of where or why?
The gains and sacrifices of the gallant sons and daughters of the liberation struggle are fast being eroded and it is imperative that we uphold that legacy and cherish its impact upon our lives today.
Let our structures be sound and let us perform our YARDly duties with zeal and professionalism. We are the emerging force leading now as we pray for Divine direction and guidance. I am pleased with the healthy debate engaged in through our What’sApp chat groups and trust that this spills over to our various other social media platforms to encourage wider participation and interest in YARD. The discussion regarding registration as voters is extremely important and something I hope will not end through verbal intercourse but will lead to the practical implementation as we ensure registration in our numbers…are you registered?
YARD must be the conduit through which imbalances are corrected that come 2018 we achieve our 40% youth representation and that a credible, free and fair voting process is realised.
Let us continue to make inroads and ensure our visibility. There was a very good article in the Daily News of yesterday, 31st December 2015 on page 7 and a further one, today, 1st January 2016 on page 5 and this should be emulated going forward.
If I have been harsh with you it is because I want the best for you so that you do not let your generation down. We are not political party but parties must embrace you failure of which will necessitate that we reconvene for a way forward.
2016 will be a year of determining factors and I am forever grateful for the inspiration and motivation projected in YARD and I look forward to us resolutely walking the road of 2016 in unity and progress and above all in tolerance. Happy New Year to you all and may God continue to Bless and protect us all.