By Pamenus Tuso
BULAWAYO – Political leaders across Matabeleland have united in grief following the tragic death of Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Member of Parliament for Nkulumane, Desire Moyo, who perished in a car accident on Friday.
The accident also left four other legislators injured when the vehicle they were traveling in reportedly hit an elephant near Shangani.
Leading the outpouring of condolences was Innocent Ndibali, the president of Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Zimbabwe, who described Moyo as “a fearless voice of the voiceless” and a passionate advocate for social justice.
“Honorable Moyo was more than just a parliamentarian; he was a bridge between the people and power,” said Ndibali in an interview with The Standard.
“He fought tirelessly for the dignity of Nkulumane residents and was a powerful symbol of principled politics in Matabeleland. We have lost a son of the soil whose legacy must not be forgotten.”
Ndibali extended solidarity to the injured lawmakers, wishing them a full recovery.
He also urged the government to “urgently address the dangers posed by wildlife and poor infrastructure on major highways.”
“It is unacceptable that lives continue to be lost because of preventable road conditions and unchecked wildlife activity. Government must act now to protect its citizens,” he said.
Also paying tribute was Mathew Sibanda, president of the Original ZAPU, who said Moyo’s death had left a void in progressive politics in the region.
“Desire Moyo embodied the aspirations of a younger generation that believes in peaceful activism and inclusive governance. He was an artist, a leader, and a community builder. Matabeleland is poorer without him,” said Sibanda.
Sibanda called on the government to ensure transparency in the investigation into the crash and to offer counseling services to the bereaved families and survivors.
Meanwhile, Chilumbo Mudenda, president of the Assemblies of Minorities (AM), hailed Moyo as a “champion of minority rights” who often spoke up for those marginalized by mainstream politics.
“Moyo never hesitated to speak truth to power and he always stood with the forgotten communities. His passing is a reminder of how fragile life is and how important it is that we as political leaders carry forward the struggle for justice that he believed in,” Mudenda said.
He added that political differences must be set aside in times of national tragedy, emphasizing unity in honoring the work of leaders who serve with integrity.
As the nation mourns ,tributes continue to pour in from civic groups, churches, and fellow parliamentarians. A memorial service is expected to be held in Bulawayo next week.
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