…however body would go to Heroes Acre Sunday to be accorded respect as a national hero
The late former President Robert Mugabe is to be buried at the National Heroes Acre but on a later date, that is yet to be announced by his family.
This was announced by Mugabe’s nephew and family spokesperson, Leo Mugabe who told journalists Friday at Rufaro Stadium gathered for Day Two of the late’s body viewing.
The actual burial day, according to family spokesperson, would only be held later to allow Mugabe’s family to conduct traditional rites, as per their culture, which may take time.
Mugabe’s family and government had reportedly been divided as to where and when the late iron-man would be buried.
His family indicted the late wanted to be buried at Zvimba while government wanted to fulfill his national hero status and have him buried at the heroes shrine.
“The president will be buried at the National Heroes Acre. As to when, that is another question,” quipped Mugabe’s nephew.
He, highlighted, that on Sunday, Mugabe’s body would be taken to Heroes Acre where he would be accorded his respect as a national hero.
But the family would then take and go with Mugabe’s body to conduct their traditional customs.
Mugabe said it was possible that the burial would take place days after Sunday as the body would have to go to Zvimba then back at Heroes Acre for a private burial service.
“His body will then be taken away for burial later once the works that are supposed to be done at the Heroes Acre are done and finalised. Once they are finalised, it will take a bit of time for the works to be done, perhaps as much as a week, thereafter he will then then be buried at the Heroes Acre during a private service,” the nephew noted.
“This is not just an ordinary hero, Mugabe is the founder of the nation. That must be shown forever and ever at the National Heroes Ace so that anybody who visits must be able to say yes, this is where Robert Mugabe is buried.”
Due to the uncertainty over the burial of Zimbabwe’s former president, the Mugabe family had to release a statement Thursday expressing their concern in the manner in which the government developed a funeral programme without consulting them.
The family also said it was shocking how authorities were trying to coerce them to accept a funeral programme they did not agree with, one that went against Mugabe’s wishes.
Meanwhile 11 presidents and eight former leaders are expected to attend the national funeral service set for tomorrow at the National Sports Stadium.
.
