TRIBUTE TO OUR FORMER SECRETARY GENERAL, THE LATE MORGAN RICHARD TSVANGIRAI ON THE 5TH ANNIVERSARY OF HIS DEMISE

Today marks the 5th anniversary of the demise of our former Secretary General Morgan Richard Tsvangirai who led the ZCTU during one of the most turbulent periods for the labour movement and distinguished himself.

His commitment to the working class remains incomparable, epitomised by the 1997–98 national demonstrations and strikes against unemployment, price hikes and taxes that government was imposing to fund its excesses that did not benefit the ordinary people.

A veteran trade unionist who dared to confront the government of the day in defence of workers’ rights which inspired and gave hope to the generality of Zimbabweans to firmly believe that union power delivers.

Beyond unionism, he was a honed activist who recognised that the democratisation of the country required a multi-pronged approach, using his leadership and organisational skills he spearheaded the formation of numerous civic society lobby groups that included the NCA,

a group that was campaigning for constitutional reforms. At the helm of the Movement for Democratic Change, he worked with civic organisations, including the NCA, to vote against a government backed proposed new constitution in 2000.

Over the years of his trade union and political career he left an indelible mark in both the national trade union and political landscape through his labour and political activism.

During his tenure as Prime Minister from 2009-2013, Zimbabweans witnessed a huge recovery of the economy and workers enjoyed better lives which they vividly remember and long for.

Tsvangirai remains a cog in the democratisation of the Zimbabwean political landscape as he led the most formidable opposition party that diffused the one-party state agenda and paved way for the proliferation of political parties after 2000.

Rest in power Morgan, a man whose legacy, ideologies and humility continues to inspire the trade unions of today and the quest for true democracy in Zimbabwe.