Former Zimbabwean Vice President Phelekezela Report Mphoko was buried at his Douglasdale home plot in Bulawayo on Sunday, reported The NewsHawks.
Mphoko, a former senior ZIPRA commander during the Liberation Struggle, died on December 6, 2024, in India, where he was undergoing treatment for an undisclosed ailment.
Mphoko’s casket, draped in the national flag, was displayed as family, friends, relatives, and dignitaries gathered to pay their last respects.
Among the notable officials were Judith Ncube, Minister of State for Bulawayo Province; Richard Moyo, Minister of State for Matabeleland North Province; and Sithembiso Nyoni, Minister of Environment, Climate, and Wildlife, among others.
Although Mphoko was declared a national hero by President Emmerson Mnangagwa and ZANU PF and was supposed to be buried at Heroes Acre in Harare, his family said he expressed a wish to be buried at his home.
Recently, another late former ZIPRA commander, Tshinga Dube, had a similar wish, although the government overrode it and buried him at Heroes Acre in Harare. Dube had wanted to be buried at Lady Stanley Cemetery in Bulawayo.
Similarly, the late former ZIPRA intelligence supremo Dumiso Dabengwa was buried at his rural home area of EManxeleni in Ntabazinduna, outside Bulawayo.
Dabengwa had told his family that he did not want any government officials at his funeral, and thus Mnangagwa and others did not attend.
Several other former nationalists, including ex-ZAPU stalwart Cephas Msipa, also chose not to be buried at Heroes Acre.
Former ZAPU political heavyweight Welshman Mabhena, before he died, openly said he did not want to be buried next to “corrupt people”, “thieves” and “murderers” at Heroes Acre.
Even the late former president Robert Mugabe, who was ousted in a coup in November 2017, is buried at his rural Zvimba home in Mashonaland West province, as he had instructed his family that he didn’t want to be buried at Heroes Acre.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Former Vice President Mphoko was buried in Bulawayo at his home. He was a hero from the Liberation Struggle. Although the government wanted to bury him at Heroes Acre, his family honored his wish. Other heroes like Dube and Dabengwa also wanted to be buried at their homes. Different leaders have chosen not to be buried at Heroes Acre. Even Mugabe is buried at his home, not there. Family and government have different ideas about where heroes should be buried.

Mphoko Buried At Family Plot In Bulawayo

The late former vice president Phekelezela Mphoko is likely to be buried at his plot in Douglasdale, Bulawayo, despite being declared a national hero.
Mphoko, who died at age 84 in India while receiving treatment for an undisclosed ailment, was immediately declared a national hero by the government, paving the way for his interment at the National Heroes Acre in Harare.
Many of the country’s independence war figures are buried at the National Heroes Acre. However, Mphoko may be buried at his plot in Douglasdale, Bulawayo, according to his family’s wishes.
Mphoko’s former boss, Robert Mugabe, was buried at his rural home in Kutama per his wishes. Mphoko reportedly left instructions to his family that he does not want to be buried at the Heroes Acre.
Family spokesman Ndaba Mphoko confirmed to <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/mphokos-wish-was-to-be-buried-at-his-plot-in-bulawayo-family/">ZimLive</a> that his brother would be buried at his plot about 10km south-east of Bulawayo.
Ndaba Mphoko said he could not speak authoritatively over the former VP’s repatriation plans from India, as the government declaring him a national hero meant that the duty of bringing his remains home and subsequent burial was now a “dual responsibility between the government and the family.”
He said the family is currently looking to the government to take the lead.
Regarding the burial location, he confirmed the family wants him buried at his plot “as per his wishes.”
Ndaba Mphoko said the government had been informed of Mphoko’s wishes to be buried at his plot in Douglasdale, Bulawayo. He said:
<blockquote>
We will perhaps formally submit some written communication to the government to confirm that there was such arrangement in place prior to his passing.
</blockquote>
Ndaba Mphoko said he was not aware of any reasons why his brother chose to be buried elsewhere other than the national shrine.
The late Mphoko, who was the country’s vice president between 2014 and 2017, is the latest liberation war hero to choose not to be buried at the National Heroes Acre, a cemetery largely occupied by veterans of the 1980s independence war.
Mugabe, who presided over many burials at the cemetery, also chose not to be buried at the National Heroes Acre. Mugabe was buried at his rural home in Kutama.
Other notable figures who chose not to be buried at the national shrine include the late former Matabeleland North governor Welshman Mabhena, who preferred not to be buried there, and Dumiso Dabengwa, a former government minister who later became an opposition politician, who chose to be buried at his Ntabazinduna home.
The late former PF ZAPU stalwart and ex-minister Tshinga Dube, as well as former minister Edgar Tekere, also rejected burial at the National Heroes Acre before they died but were ultimately buried there by the government.
Many liberation war heroes who have chosen not to be buried at the national shrine have felt ostracized by the country’s leaders.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former vice president Phekelezela Mphoko died at 84 in India. He was declared a national hero, but he wanted to be buried in Bulawayo, not at the National Heroes Acre. His family confirmed this wish. The government and family will work together to bring him home for burial. Other famous people, like Robert Mugabe, also chose to be buried outside the Heroes Acre. Many war heroes who did this felt excluded by the country's leaders. Mphoko's family wants his wishes to be respected.

"Mphoko Asked To Be Buried Away From National Heroes Acre"

There will be three burials at the National Heroes Acre on Monday 29 April, of national heroes Nash Dzimiri, Brigadier General Shadreck Vezha, and heroine Tsitsi Jadagu, reported the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/triple-burial-for-national-heroes-2/">Chronicle</a>.
Dzimiri and Jadagu both died after a short illness while Brig Gen Vezha died in a road traffic accident together with two Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) Majors and a Sergeant.
On Monday, 22 April, the ZANU PF Politburo held an extraordinary session whose main agenda was to make arrangements for the three heroes’ simultaneous burials.
Speaking at a press briefing after the Politburo session, ZANU PF national spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa, said:
<blockquote>
Today we had an extraordinary session of the Zanu-PF Politburo where President Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa saw it fit to convene this extraordinary meeting at a very solemn occasion where the Government and the party and the people of Zimbabwe, in general, have lost solid patriots.
The burial will be on Monday because now there are two heroes and a heroine so we need to organise properly and coordinate the families. We felt that we wanted to grant these two heroes and the heroine a proper burial with due attendance by the people of Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
He said the Politburo had noted Dzimiri’s undeniably immense contributions, hence the decision to grant him hero status. Said Mutsvangwa:
<blockquote>
Cde Nash Dzimiri had an outstanding revolutionary career where he fought at the front, he would also train abroad in specialised areas of military warfare and was a confidant at the highest level of the high command of ZANLA forces, particularly in the enforcement of discipline.
He was also an intelligence officer who gave Africa one of the most admired security organisations which has become the basis of the Africa Security Council Union.
</blockquote>
Mutsvangwa said Vezha was set to be posted as a military attaché of Zimbabwe to Tanzania before his untimely death. He said:
<blockquote>
One of them, a promising young General, recently promoted, who was looking forward to a more illustrious posting as a military attaché of Zimbabwe to our sister republic of Tanzania, that’s Brigadier General Shadreck Vezha. He was involved in an accident between two military vehicles in the Battlefields area in Kwekwe.
The party and the Government have seen it fit to recommend to the Politburo and the Politburo duly obliged and the President assented that Cde Brigadier General Shadreck Vezha be declared a national hero.
We want him to serve as an example of a dedicated patriot to the young people, girl child and boy child, that works of valour and patriotic commitment to the Republic of Zimbabwe will always be duly recognised.
</blockquote>
Mutsvangwa described Jadagu as a dedicated cadre whom the Politburo had seen fit to bestow the honour of national heroine status. He said:
<blockquote>
Sadly as the President was coming to deliberate on these two male cadres, we received news that Cde Grace Tsitsi Jadagu, a long-time cadre of the party, this one belongs to the Women’s League.
She passed away and Harare Province has seen it fit to ask that she be declared a national hero and the President in consultation with his Politburo duly acceded to the request from Harare Province.
So Cde Gare Tsitsi Jadagu will be interred together with the two others, so we have a triple burial at the Heroes Acre of these three outstanding patriots after all of them have been conferred with national hero status.
Cde Jadagu was at the forefront of mobilising votes for ZANU PF so that the ruling party could snatch two seats from Muzorewa in the urban areas.
</blockquote>
Mutsvangwa added that Jadagu was one of the organisers of the 1980 elections who managed to make ZANU PF penetrate urban areas.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Three National Heroes To Be Buried On Same Day

President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Monday, 14 August, declared that Zimbabwe will never be ruled by puppets of the West.
Mnangagwa made the declaration at a burial ceremony of former Attorney General and Zimbabwe’s ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Johannes Tomana, and Retired Brigadier General Milton Siziba at the National Heroes Acre in Harare.
He accused Western powers of using the opposition to try to unseat ZANU PF.  In the past, the ruling party has claimed that the opposition MDC and CCC are Western puppets. Said Mnangagwa:
<blockquote>
Under our mass revolutionary party, ZANU PF, we remain a government of the people, by the people and for the people.
Zimbabwe will never, ever be run by a puppet government of our erstwhile oppressors. Never.
This is a position that the national heroes we are interring and the heroines we are honoring today played their part and left us a legacy of resilience and unflinching patriotism.
</blockquote>
The President asserted that despite the sanctions imposed by the United States and its Western allies, Zimbabwe continued to thrive. He said:
<blockquote>
Twenty-three years after the ruinous sanctions imposed by some Western countries, our country continues to defy all odds.
We are transforming our infrastructure as well as industrialising and modernising our economy.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe marked National Heroes Day on Monday, and national heroes Tomana and Siziba were buried on the same day at the National Heroes Acre.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Western Puppets Will Never Rule Zimbabwe - Mnangagwa

President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Saturday conferred national hero status on Brigadier-General Epmarcus Walter Kanhanga (Rtd), who died on Thursday.
Brig-Gen Kanhanga died at his rural Guruve home in Mashonaland Central at the age of 73.
The conferment of hero status on Brig-Gen Kanhanga was announced by the Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Mischeck Sibanda. He said in a statement:
<blockquote>
His Excellency the President, Dr ED Mnangagwa, today announced the conferment of National Hero Status on the late Brigadier-General Epmarcus Walter Kanhanga (wartime name Cde Charles Munyoro), who passed on at his Guruve home in the early hours of Thursday, 2nd February 2023.
This decision by the party to honor the late Brigadier-General in this very special way is in recognition of his wartime role as a freedom fighter; his loyal and diligent service to the country and region as a senior officer of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, ZDF; his role as a Deputy Minister of Government; as a Member of Parliament; as a leader in the corporate world, and as a consistent cadre of the ruling ZANU PF party.
</blockquote>
Brig-Gen Kanhanga is expected to be buried at the National Heroes’ Acre at a date yet to be announced.

Brig-Gen Kanhanga Declared National Hero

The late Brigadier General Charles Kaneta, <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/senior-zimbabwe-defence-forces-official-collapses-and-dies/">who collapsed and died</a> on Saturday has been declared a national hero. 
He was 64.
In a statement seen by <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/brigadier-general-kaneta-declared-national-hero/">ZBC News</a>, President Emmerson Mnangagwa said Kaneta’s death came as a shock as he showed no signs of ill-health and was on a routine visit to his rural home in Honde, Manicaland Province at the time of his death.
He said Kaneta’s death is a great loss to the nation, and the Defence Force, whose crop of wartime field commanders is gradually being whittled down.
Kaneta, whose Chimurenga name was Santana Tongai, joined the liberation struggle in 1975 in Mozambique at the age of 17.
He later became a graduate of the Nanjing Military Academy in China, as well as a beneficiary of specialised military training in Syria.
President Mnangagwa described the late Brigadier as a tough and brilliant military instructor through whose hands passed many cadres, including senior ZANU PF party officials such as the late National Hero Herbert Ushewokunze, late Crispen Mandizvidza and Dr Sidney Sekeramayi.
Kaneta was attested in 1981 into the integrated Zimbabwe National Army.
He is survived by his wife, Amai Kaneta and children.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

The Late Brigadier Kaneta Declared National Hero

A Chinhoyi magistrate on Tuesday threw out a bid by former First Lady, Grace Mugabe, for judicial review of Chief Zvimba’s ruling ordering the exhumation of the late former President Robert Mugabe’s remains.
Chief Zvimba in May ordered the exhumation of Mugabe’s remains for reburied at the National Heroes Acre saying his burial in Zvimba was in violation of tradition.
Grace, who was in Singapore, gave her daughter Bona, powers of attorney to represent her in the court case to have the chief’s judgment reviewed on a technicality.
The Mugabe family wanted Chief Zvimba’s order to be suspended because he served the papers at Mugabe’s Borrowdale mansion instead of his rural Zvimba home.
She also wanted the ruling to be suspended on the grounds that the chief ordered her to pay a fine with cattle that are not in his area of jurisdiction. Grace also questioned the chief’s jurisdiction over the matter.
Chinhoyi magistrate Ruth Moyo, however, said Bona had no right to apply for judicial review of the ruling that was handed down by Chief Zvimba in the case between Grace and Tinos Manongovere. Reads part of Moyo’s ruling:
<blockquote>
An application must be deposed on the basis of the funding affidavit’ in casu, the court has a determination that when Bona Mutsahuni filed the founding affidavit, she had no authority at law to do so.
The special power of attorney was executed on July 27, 20 days after the application was filed and has no retrospective effect. The court will not deal with all other points.
</blockquote>
Grace’s lawyer Fungai Chimwamurombe said they were not happy with the ruling adding that they will appeal the ruling.
Early this month, Moyo dismissed an application by Mugabe’s children, Bona, Tinotenda Robert Jnr and Bellarmine to suspend Chief Zvimba’s ruling.
Mugabe’s children have since appealed against Moyo’s ruling.
Mugabe was buried at his Kutama rural home after the family stood its ground against President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government that wanted him to be buried at the national shrine.
Mugabe’s nephew, Patrick Zhuwao strongly believes Mnangagwa is behind the exhumation bid as he believes the late veteran leader had a sceptre that he needs to rule the country. 
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/09/mugabe-exhumation-grace-loses-case/">NewsDay Zimbabwe</a>

Mugabe's Exhumation And Reburial: Grace's Appeal Thrown Out

The late retired Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) Commander, and Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Water and Rural Resettlement, Air Chief Marshal Perrance Shiri was buried at the National Heroes Acre in Harare on Friday.
See the burial in pictures:
<img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EeQVtqOXoAAKMA4?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/><img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EeQVuCwXYAAcR6P?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/><img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EeQVugPXgAAy5xb?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/><img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EeQVuzrXYAA1W0C?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/>

PICTURES: Perrance Shiri Burial At The National Heroes Acre

National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe (NMMZ) executive director, Dr Godfrey Mahachi has said that the construction of a mausoleum at the National Heroes Acre is currently underway.
The mausoleum projected was initiated for the burial of Zimbabwe’s founding leader, Robert Gabriel Mugabe who died on the 6th of September in Singapore where he was receiving medical attention. Mugabe has however since been buried in his rural home, Kutama after his family snubbed the National Heroes Acre.
Dr Mahachi said that the Department of Public Works was handling all issues to do with the project. He added:
<blockquote>The construction of the mausoleum at the national shrine is currently underway, but we do not have much details pertaining to the project, since it is still under the Department of Public Works.
There were people on site yesterday (Saturday), meaning the construction of the mausoleum is on course.</blockquote>
The mausoleum’s initial budget indicated that the country will have<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/09/17/just-in-mugabes-mausoleum-to-cost-usd1m/"> to part ways with US1 million</a> as most of the materials needed for the project are imported.
More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/mausoleum-at-national-heroes-acre-construction-underway/">The Chronicle</a>

"Construction Of Mugabe's Mausoleum Still Underway At National Heroes Acre"

The director of the Harare-based Zimbabwe Democracy Institute (ZDI), Pedzisai Ruhanya, has said that both the late founding leader of the country, Robert Mugabe and the incumbent President, Emmerson Mnangagwa rose to power through military coups.
Ruhanya said that the family of the former president should, therefore, stop acting as if Mugabe was sacred. Posting on Twitter, Ruhanya said:
<blockquote>Mugabe rose to power after the Mgagao declaration of October 1975 before the 1977 Chimoio Congress. Mnangagwa rose to power after the Nov 2017 military coup then the ZANU PF Congress of Dec 2017. Both leaders are products of military factor. But Mugabe family thinks Bob is holy!</blockquote>
His remarks come at a time when the tensions between the Mnangagwa led administration and Mugabe’s family seem to be unending.
Tensions grew when the former first family allegedly tried in vain to assassinate the then vice president, Mnangagwa, through accidents, cyanide and ice-cream poison.
The military-assisted transition of November 2017 which resulted in Mugabe’s demise did less to save the situation.
Some members of the Mugabe family blame Mnangagwa for the death of the former veteran leader saying that the coup worsened his health condition.
The tension has resulted in the family rejecting the government’s offer to burry Mugabe at the National Heroes Acre.
Mugabe who died on the 6th of September in Singapore where he was receiving medical attention is expected to be buried on Saturday 28 September in Zvimba, his rural home.
More: <a href="https://twitter.com/PedzisaiRuhanya/status/1177476166292103168">Pedzisai Ruhanya</a>

"Both Mugabe & Mnangagwa Rose To Power Through Coups"

The funeral service of the late former president of Zimbabwe, Robert Mugabe will be held today (Saturday) at the National Sports Stadium.
Mugabe’s burial will, as his family has said, however, <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/09/13/just-in-mugabe-to-be-buried-in-october-report/">take place at the National Heroes Acre in October after a mausoleum has been built, a process that is expected to take 30 days</a>.
Watch the video below for more.
<div class="jetpack-video-wrapper"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" loading="lazy" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/i0tpXwVvf04?feature=oembed" title="Robert Mugabe funeral service to be held this Saturday" width="640"></iframe></div>
More: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i0tpXwVvf04">SABC News</a>

WATCH: Mugabe Funeral Service To Be Held Today

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said that the government will not bury the late former president of Zimbabwe, Robert Mugabe against the wishes of his family.
Speaking at Mugabe’s residence, Blue Roof, in Borrowdale Brooke where he was leading members of the politburo in paying their condolences on the passing on of Zimbabwe’s founding leader, Mnangagwa said:
<blockquote>Amai (former First Lady Grace Mugabe), you have the full support of the Government under me, those who talk will do so, but as Government there is nothing that we will do against your wishes.
On where and how he will be buried, we have not made an announcement until we met Amai so that we share with each other. When my mother died, the former President came to my residence and stayed for quite some time.
We will try to make all the provisions. I want the family to know that the Zanu-PF-led Government will not forget that we have our leader, it is something that we do as a matter of tradition.</blockquote>
His remarks come when reports indicate that Mugabe’s family does not want the late veteran leader to be buried at the National Heroes Acre as the government had suggested.
The family spokesperson, Leo Mugabe, the nephew of the former ZANU PF boss has revealed that Mugabe will not be buried on Sunday as the State had earlier projected. Leo also said that Mugabe’s burial will be a private event where even international delegates are not allowed to attend.
More: <a href="https://nehandaradio.com/2019/09/13/mnangagwa-says-they-will-respect-mugabe-family-wishes-on-burial-place/">Nehanda Radio</a>

"Government Won't Go Against Wishes Of Mugabe Family," Mnangagwa

ZANU PF political commissar, Victor Matemadanda, has said that the late founding leader of Zimbabwe, Robert Mugabe does not deserve to be forgiven.
He said that Mugabe was the architect of violence in the country. He said that Mugabe was responsible for the disappearance of many Zimbabweans.
The video seems to have been recorded last year after the August 1 shootings which resulted in the death of a number of civilians. After that incident, Mugabe castigated violence saying that Mnangagwa was not God so he was not supposed to be killing people.
The video becomes relevant now as the ruling party intends to have Mnangagwa buried at the National Heroes Acre saying that he is a hero who deserves a better sendoff. Watch the video below.
<div class="fb-video" data-allowfullscreen="true" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/Murimimutsva/videos/10157468162298058/"></div>
More: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Murimimutsva/videos/10157468162298058/">SM TV</a>

WATCH: Matemadanda Says Mugabe Doesn't Deserve Forgiveness

Exiled Patrick Zhuwawo, the nephew of the late former president of Zimbabwe, Robert Mugabe, has warned president Mnangagwa against violating deathbed wishes of his uncle saying that they would be attracting the wrath of the vengeful spirit (ngozi).
Writing on <a href="https://patrickzhuwao.com/allow-gushungo-vamugabe-to-rest-where-he-said-he-wanted-to-rest/">his personal blog,</a> Zhuwawo said:
<blockquote>As muzukuru and dunzvi (nephew) of the Gushungo clan, I am very aware of the spiritual power that vanaGushungo have over matters to do with their wishes, traditions and legacy. Let those who think they can torment President Mugabe’s departed soul and subjugate the wishes of the Gushungo ancestors know that they are inviting the spiritual wrath of the whole clan. Be warned; you will never win that spiritual war; kuzvikokera ngozi (that is inviting a curse on oneself).</blockquote>
His remarks come when the government and Mugabe’s family are reportedly conflicting over where to bury Zimbabwe’s founding leader. The State, by all means, wants Mugabe buried at the National Heroes Acre whilst the family is reportedly demanding that he be buried at his rural home in Zvimba.
Some reports, which were refuted by Mugabe’s nephew and family spokesperson, Leo Mugabe, suggest that Mugabe announced before he died that he would not want to be buried at the National Heroes Acre merely because he does not want those who removed him from power (Mnangagwa and army) to preside over his funeral.
Mugabe resigned in November 2017 following the army’s Operation Restore Legacy saying that he wanted to avoid bloodshed in the country.
More: <a href="https://patrickzhuwao.com/allow-gushungo-vamugabe-to-rest-where-he-said-he-wanted-to-rest/">Patrick Zhuwawo</a>

"You Will Never Win That Spiritual War," Mugabe's Nephew Warns Mnangagwa

The family of the late former President Robert Mugabe finally relented to have him buried at the National Heroes Acre, Zim Morning Post claims.
The report said its sources revealed that the Mugabe family and senior government officials held a series of meetings since Friday. It says:
<blockquote>We held our final meeting yesterday (Sunday) at the Munhumutapa office where it was agreed the veteran leader will be laid to rest at the National Heroes Acre.
The meeting was chaired by chief of protocol Munyaradzi Kajese and some of the people who attended include Mugabe family spokesperson Leo Mugabe, Philip Chiyangwa, several chiefs and headmen from Zvimba.
Former minister Michael Bimha represented the former first lady Grace Mugabe’s family, the Marufus.</blockquote>
Mugabe’s nephew, Leo Mugabe is reported to have expressed his unhappiness because the Mnangagwa government had treated him with disdain since the coup.
Meanwhile, former Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) Gideon Gono claimed to be a close friend of the former First Family. Said the report:
<blockquote>Gono told the family that Mugabe has never said he did not want to be buried at the Heroes Acre because he could have written that down or inform one of his best friend (sahwira).
Gono told the family that he has been in good books with the Mugabes even after the veteran leader was out of power.
Gono said Mugabe was not happy by the way he was removed but he has always been principled on his values and those of Zanu PF.</blockquote>
Spokesperson of the National Patriotic Front (NPF), Jealousy Mawarire, a party which was allegedly backed by Mugabe, said that the late national hero should lie among his comrades.
<h4>More: <a href="https://zimmorningpost.com/breaking-news-mugabe-to-be-buried-at-the-heroes-acre/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Zim Morning Post</a></h4>

Mugabe Family, Govt Officials Agree On His Final Resting Place - Report

The late former President Robert Mugabe’s body is expected in the country on Wednesday and burial is slated for Sunday at the National Heroes Acre.
This was revealed by Presidential spokesperson, George Charamba who claimed that there was never any differences in opinion between the Government and family on where Mugabe would be buried. He said:
<blockquote>It is the timeline that we are working with, but subject to confirmation with the leadership.
The major decisions will be taken tomorrow in the context of the proposed programme.</blockquote>
According to the proposed programme, Mugabe’s body is expected to be received at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, the Mugabe and Marufu family members and chiefs from Zvimba.
It will then be taken to his rural home in Zvimba. The body is expected to be placed in the National Sports Stadium where mourners from the country’s 10 provinces would have an opportunity to bid him farewell.
Meanwhile, a team of government officials alongside the Mugabe and Marufu family members and Zanu-PF party representatives is expected to leave for Singapore shortly to assist Mrs Grace Mugabe in repatriating the body.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/cde-mugabes-last-days-burial-expected-to-be-on-sunday-at-national-heroes-acre/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sunday News</a></h4>

Mugabe To Be Buried At The National Heroes Acre On Sunday

The late former President Robert Mugabe reportedly informed his close relatives that he does not want to be buried at the National Heroes Acre, a few weeks before he died.
Mugabe died on Friday, 6 September 2019, at the age of 95 at a hospital in Singapore where he has been unwell for an extended period of time.
Last month, The Independent reported that Mugabe did not want the current Zanu PF government to preside over his funeral.
Unnamed family members disclosed that Mugabe made it clear that he would not want President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his allies to perform his last rites having overthrown him in a military coup in November 2017.
The report suggested that Mugabe’s preference is to be buried next to his mother Bona at his rural home in Zvimba, Mashonaland West province. Said one of the sources:
<blockquote>Mugabe has made it clear to his family that he does not wish to be buried at the National Heroes’ Acre anymore. He does not want to be associated with Mnangagwa and all those he now views as his betrayers and tormentors. He has said he doesn’t want them to sing and pontificate over his dead body.
He has informed relatives about his decision and this is known in the family; it’s also now known in government circles.</blockquote>
President Mnangagwa was reportedly unsettled by news of Mugabe’s decision and he duly sent a delegation to Singapore to convince his predecessor to change his mind.
Mnangagwa, according to the report, approached several high-ranking personalities to be the link between himself and Mugabe.
Some of the names that were forwarded include former bureaucrat and ex-diplomat Dr Machivenyika Mapuranga, former Higher Education secretary Dr Washington Mbizvo and ex-Civil Service Commission chairperson Dr Mariyawanda Nzuwa.
Mnangagwa finally sent a delegation headed by Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet Misheck Sibanda. The team had Central Intelligence Organisation Director-General Isaac Moyo and Mugabe’s former personal doctor Professor Jonathan Matenga in its ranks.
It is not known if Mugabe changed his mind following the officials’ visit.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.theindependent.co.zw/2019/08/09/mugabe-rejects-heroes-acre-burial/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Independent</a></h4>

Mugabe Refused National Heroes Acre Burial - Report

Multitudes of people gathered at Lobengula Hall in Bulawayo to bid farewell to the late national hero Velaphi Misheck Ncube. Ncube who was suffering from diabetes died on the 29th of April aged 82.
Bulawayo Provincial Affairs Minister Judith Ncube whilst addre3ssing mourners described the former ZIPRA war veteran as a hard worker. She said:
<blockquote>In mourning Cde Velaphi Ncube as Bulawayo province and Zimbabwe as a whole, we are saying there is need to follow in his footsteps as he was a hard worker. We can only honour and preserve his legacy by working hard to grow our economy and improve the people’s lives.</blockquote>
A number of other mourners who spoke at the send-off described the late Ncube as a true hero principled man and a peacemaker.
Ncube’s burial is scheduled for today at the national heroes acre.
<h3>Related:</h3>
<ul>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/05/08/pictures-body-of-national-hero-misheck-ncube-being-flown-from-bulawayo/" rel="bookmark">PICTURES: Body Of National Hero Misheck Ncube Being Flown From Bulawayo</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/05/07/national-hero-to-be-laid-to-rest-on-thursday/" rel="bookmark">National Hero To Be Laid To Rest On Thursday</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/05/05/zipra-veteran-declared-national-hero/" rel="bookmark">ZIPRA Veteran Declared National Hero</a></li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/national-hero-velaphi-ncube-gets-huge-send-off/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Chronicle</a>

Huge Send-Off For National Hero Velaphi Ncube

National hero, Velaphi Misheck Ncube will be buried on Thursday at the National Heroes’ Acre. Ncube who was a member of Zanu-PF National Consultative Assembly died at the United Bulawayo Hospitals last week aged 80.
He was one of the pioneer freedom fighters under the Zimbabwe People’s Revolutionary Army (Zipra).
Ncube’s family plans to have all funeral services in Bulawayo before his body is flown to Harare on Wednesday night for burial. Retired Assistant Commissioner Claydon Seulah, the family spokesperson revealed that they had consulted the government on the provisional burial date. He said:
<blockquote>Tentatively we’re planning to have all the funeral services done here in Bulawayo before his body is flown to Harare on Wednesday evening in preparation for burial at the National Heroes’ Acre on Thursday.</blockquote>
Ncube is survived by his wife Margaret, nine children, 16 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Mourners are gathered at 70590 Lobengula West in Bulawayo.
<h3>Related:</h3>
<ul>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/05/05/zipra-veteran-declared-national-hero/" rel="bookmark">ZIPRA Veteran Declared National Hero</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/04/24/two-heroes-of-the-liberation-struggle-die/" rel="bookmark">Two Heroes Of The Liberation Struggle Die</a></li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/national-heros-burial-slated-for-thursday/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Herald</a>

National Hero To Be Laid To Rest On Thursday

Zimbabweans on social media have differed sharply on whether Oliver Mtukudzi should be buried at the National Heroes Acre or not.
Some Zimbabweans have suggested it is a befitting honour for the music icon, while some have said it should be left to the family to decide. Some have also said that being buried at the heroes acre would be an insult to Oliver Mtukudzi as the shrine has been a place for politicians not known for positive contribution to society.
The decision to accord anyone National Hero status is made by the Zanu-PF party politburo.
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/01/24/oliver-mtukudzi-declared-national-hero/">Tuku was declared a National Hero.</a>
Below, some of the comments we selected:
https://twitter.com/faithy_waithi/status/1088103210190077959
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" data-width="550">
I am so sad that such a national and international icon needed to be validated by an organ of a political party. This is a charade. The role of the Politburo must come to an END. We need a new Act of Parliament that will set out a criteria for declaration of heroes <a href="https://t.co/GM1Sb6LA7g">https://t.co/GM1Sb6LA7g</a>
— Fortune Daniel Molokele. MP (@molokele) <a href="https://twitter.com/molokele/status/1088413705321234432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" data-width="550">
I pray Tuku's family are not cajoled into surrendering <a href="https://twitter.com/TukuOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TukuOfficial</a> in death to be used to launder the bloody reputation of <a href="https://twitter.com/edmnangagwa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@edmnangagwa</a>'s govt after a week of murders, brutal torture &amp; beatings reported globally &amp; condemned by govts own human rights body. No to Heroes Acre!
— Chofamba (@Chofamba) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chofamba/status/1088231063506374657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" data-width="550">
The people have already decided that he is an international hero!
— Prof Jonathan Moyo (@ProfJNMoyo) <a href="https://twitter.com/ProfJNMoyo/status/1088372496565456896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" data-width="550">
Some people never pass the opportunity of getting attention. Cheap politics at a time others are grieving. Tukus works speak for themselves infact anyone who denies that he is a hero – well nobody denies <a href="https://t.co/UX9PlQPovY">pic.twitter.com/UX9PlQPovY</a>
— Dhara Blessed Mhlanga (@bbmhlanga) <a href="https://twitter.com/bbmhlanga/status/1088400800714579973?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
<h2>Related:</h2>
<ul>
<li class="entry-title">
<h3><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/01/24/declare-oliver-mtukudzi-a-national-hero-national-arts-council-urges-mnangagwa-govt/" rel="bookmark">Declare Oliver Mtukudzi A National Hero- National Arts Council Urges Mnangagwa Govt</a></h3>
</li>
</ul>

Zimbabweans Split On National Hero Status For Oliver Mtukudzi

<blockquote>MINISTRY OF YOUTH, SPORT, ARTS AND RECREATION
24 JANUARY 2019
PRESS RELEASE BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF YOUTH, SPORT, ARTS AND RECREATION ON THE UNTIMELY DEATH OF DR. OLIVER DAIRAI MTUKUDZI
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Ministry of Youth. Sport, Arts and Recreation received with shock and sadness the passing on of a Zimbabwean music icon, a cultural ambassador par excellence, a mentor, a unifier, a social commentator and indeed an exemplary family man, Dr Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi. It is beyond doubt that the void he has left in the cultural and creative industries arena nationally and internationally will be difficult to fill.
The Ministry and its stakeholders in the cultural and creative industries have set in motion the process for the conferment of National Hero status on Dr Oliver ‘Tuku’ Mtukudzi by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Cde Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa. The request is premised on the tremendous work that Dr Mtukudzi accomplished over a long period of time in the arts sector, particularly music. Far and wide, his ‘Katakwe’ music positively impacted on the entire world.
<div>In recognition of his heroic works in the development of Zimbabwean music in general, the Ministry put up an organising committee comprising of Ministry Officials, members of the Mtukudzi family, National Arts Council of Zimbabwe. National Gallery of Zimbabwe, arts industry practitioners, music promoters and artists is being set up to spearhead all logistical arrangements for a Tuku Memorial Concert.</div>
Ministry is organising a memorial music concert to celebrate the life of a legend and his achievements in music as well as bidding him an appropriate send off. In that vein, corporates who benefitted immensely from Dr Mtukudzi’s works through advertisements, promotion and marketing activities, among other commissioned works, are encouraged to come on board in making arrangements for the concert and his burial.
As of tomorrow Friday, the 26th of January, 2019, an appeal is being made to the womenfolk, who constitute a sizeable percentage of Tuku’s fan base to put on black attire including headdress in what is being dubbed “TUKU DHUKU”. Males are being encouraged to put on African shirts and head-dress, and should they choose formal attire it should be without a necktie.
Transport to ferry artists to Tuku’s homestead has been organised.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Arts and Recreation has been humbled by the numerous efforts being carried out by various groups and individuals in celebrating the life and accomplishments of this larger than life and humble legend, Dr Oliver ‘Tuku’ Mtukudzi.
<div>May His Dear Soul Rest In Eternal Peace.</div>
</blockquote>
<ul>
<li>
<h3><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/zimbabweans-split-on-national-hero-status-for-oliver-mtukudzi/" rel="bookmark">Zimbabweans Split On National Hero Status For Oliver Mtukudzi</a></h3>
</li>
<li>
<h3><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/kirsty-coventry-says-govt-considering-special-honour-for-oliver-mtukudzi/" rel="bookmark">Kirsty Coventry Says Govt Considering ‘Special Honour’ For Oliver Mtukudzi</a></h3>
</li>
<li>
<h3><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/sa-president-cyril-ramaphosa-send-condolences-to-mtukudzi-loved-ones/" rel="bookmark">SA President Cyril Ramaphosa, Send Condolences To Mtukudzi Loved Ones</a></h3>
</li>
<li>
<h3><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/star-fm-postpones-music-awards-to-allow-mtukudzi-mourning/" rel="bookmark">Star FM Postpones Music Awards To Allow Mtukudzi Mourning</a></h3>
</li>
<li>
<h3><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/listen-killer-t-dedicates-song-to-oliver-mtukudzi-mumureverere/" rel="bookmark">Listen: Killer T Dedicates Song To Oliver Mtukudzi – Mumureverere</a></h3>
</li>
<li>
<h3><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/watch-oliver-mtukudzi-the-early-music-videos/" rel="bookmark">Watch: Oliver Mtukudzi, The Early Music Videos</a></h3>
</li>
</ul>

FULL TEXT: Oliver Mtukudzi Formally Declared National Hero President Mnangagwa [Updated]

<blockquote>MINISTRY OF YOUTH, SPORT, ARTS AND RECREATION 
24 JANUARY 2019
PRESS RELEASE BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF YOUTH, SPORT, ARTS AND RECREATION ON THE UNTIMELY DEATH OF DR. OLIVER DAIRAI MTUKUDZI
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Ministry of Youth. Sport, Arts and Recreation received with shock and sadness the passing on of a Zimbabwean music icon, a cultural ambassador par excellence, a mentor, a unifier, a social commentator and indeed an exemplary family man, Dr Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi. It is beyond doubt that the void he has left in the cultural and creative industries arena nationally and internationally will be difficult to fill.
The Ministry and its stakeholders in the cultural and creative industries have set in motion the process for the conferment of National Hero status on Dr Oliver ‘Tuku’ Mtukudzi by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Cde Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa. The request is premised on the tremendous work that Dr Mtukudzi accomplished over a long period of time in the arts sector, particularly music. Far and wide, his ‘Katakwe’ music positively impacted on the entire world.
<div><ins class="adsbygoogle" data-ad-client="ca-pub-6179472362501416" data-ad-format="fluid" data-ad-layout="in-article" data-ad-slot="8875307036" data-adsbygoogle-status="done"><ins id="aswift_1_expand"><ins id="aswift_1_anchor"></ins></ins></ins>In recognition of his heroic works in the development of Zimbabwean music in general, the Ministry put up an organising committee comprising of Ministry Officials, members of the Mtukudzi family, National Arts Council of Zimbabwe. National Gallery of Zimbabwe, arts industry practitioners, music promoters and artists is being set up to spearhead all logistical arrangements for a Tuku Memorial Concert.</div>
Ministry is organising a memorial music concert to celebrate the life of a legend and his achievements in music as well as bidding him an appropriate send off. In that vein, corporates who benefitted immensely from Dr Mtukudzi’s works through advertisements, promotion and marketing activities, among other commissioned works, are encouraged to come on board in making arrangements for the concert and his burial.
As of tomorrow Friday, the 26th of January, 2019, an appeal is being made to the womenfolk, who constitute a sizeable percentage of Tuku’s fan base to put on black attire including headdress in what is being dubbed “TUKU DHUKU”. Males are being encouraged to put on African shirts and head-dress, and should they choose formal attire it should be without a necktie.
Transport to ferry artists to Tuku’s homestead has been organised. 
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Arts and Recreation has been humbled by the numerous efforts being carried out by various groups and individuals in celebrating the life and accomplishments of this larger than life and humble legend, Dr Oliver ‘Tuku’ Mtukudzi.
<div><ins class="adsbygoogle" data-ad-client="ca-pub-6179472362501416" data-ad-format="auto" data-ad-slot="1094852454" data-adsbygoogle-status="done" data-full-width-responsive="true"><ins id="aswift_2_expand"><ins id="aswift_2_anchor"></ins></ins></ins>May His Dear Soul Rest In Eternal Peace.</div>
</blockquote>
<div></div>
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<h3><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/01/24/zimbabweans-split-on-national-hero-status-for-oliver-mtukudzi/" rel="bookmark">Zimbabweans Split On National Hero Status For Oliver Mtukudzi</a></h3>
</li>
<li class="entry-title">
<h3><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/01/24/kirsty-coventry-says-govt-considering-special-honour-for-oliver-mtukudzi/" rel="bookmark">Kirsty Coventry Says Govt Considering ‘Special Honour’ For Oliver Mtukudzi</a></h3>
</li>
<li class="entry-title">
<h3><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/01/24/sa-president-cyril-ramaphosa-send-condolences-to-mtukudzi-loved-ones/" rel="bookmark">SA President Cyril Ramaphosa, Send Condolences To Mtukudzi Loved Ones</a></h3>
</li>
<li class="entry-title">
<h3><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/01/24/star-fm-postpones-music-awards-to-allow-mtukudzi-mourning/" rel="bookmark">Star FM Postpones Music Awards To Allow Mtukudzi Mourning</a></h3>
</li>
<li class="entry-title">
<h3><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/01/24/listen-killer-t-dedicates-song-to-oliver-mtukudzi-mumureverere/" rel="bookmark">Listen: Killer T Dedicates Song To Oliver Mtukudzi – Mumureverere</a></h3>
</li>
<li class="entry-title">
<h3><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/01/24/watch-oliver-mtukudzi-the-early-music-videos/" rel="bookmark">Watch: Oliver Mtukudzi, The Early Music Videos</a></h3>
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The late founding Vice Chancellor of the National University of Science and Technology, Professor Phineas Makhurane has been declared a national hero. This was revealed by Vice President Kembo Mohadi when he visited the late academic’s house in Fourwinds Suburb in Bulawayo on Thursday morning.
Professor Makhurane died from a diabetic ailment at Mater Dei Hospital in Bulawayo last Saturday. He will be buried at the National Heroes Acre in Harare on Saturday.
Related:
<ul>
<li class="entry-title">
<h3><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2018/12/03/mnangagwa-mourns-founding-nust-vice-chancellor/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Mnangagwa Mourns Founding NUST Vice Chancellor</a></h3>
</li>
</ul>

Founding NUST Vice Chancellor, Makhurane Declared A National Hero

Addressing mourners at the burial of national heroine Gogo Maria Msika at the National Heroes Acre today, President Robert Mugabe attacked “economic saboteurs” saying
<blockquote>Ndovaya vakataurwa naJesu pa last supper kuti vandinodya navo ndovachandipandukira. Vana Judas Iscariot varipo pakati pedu. Ivavo kongativadzukureika, tivanyadzise. Ivavo ndovanoda kuti kudzipurwe hurumende, kuuye vamwe. President vabve pachigaro. Ko ini chigaro ichi handina kuita zvekubvuta, ndakachipiwa nevanhu, ndechevanhu saka handidi nacho.
(They are like Biblical Judas Iscariot, who Jesus talked about during the last supper that he will betray him. We have such people in our midst but we should uproot and shame them. They want regime change but I am saying I was given the mandate to rule by the people so I am vacating the post.)</blockquote>
Mbuya Msika was the widow of the late vice president Joseph Msika.
More: <a href="http://www.zbc.co.zw/2017/09/28/pres-mugabe-vows-to-uproot-economic-saboteurs/">ZBC News</a>

There's a Judas Iscariot at the top table, dining with us says President Mugabe

Speaking at the burial of national heroine Gogo Maria Msika, at the National Heroes Acre, Mugabe said:
<blockquote>Chigaro handina kuita chekubvuta, ndakapihwa nevanhu. Chigaro chevanhu, handidi nacho!… kwanhasi ndakati zete pachiri.
[Some say I must go. I didn’t grab power. I was given by the people. It’s the people’s presidency. I don’t want with it ]</blockquote>
<blockquote class="twitter-video" data-lang="en">
Mugabe says he’s still around. Watch awkward moment featuring Josiah Hungwe ??? <a href="https://t.co/149gjmH9cm">pic.twitter.com/149gjmH9cm</a>
— Mduduzi Mathuthu (@Mathuthu) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mathuthu/status/913357776344293377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
Video Credit: <a href="https://twitter.com/Mathuthu">@Mathuthu</a>

Video: "I didn't grab power, I was given by the people": Mugabe says he is not going anywhere

A person identified as Charumbira who is believed to be from Bulawayo and an ally of Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa has threatened violence at the National Heroes Acre tomorrow if Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko officiates the burial of Shuvai Mahofa.
The person alleges that Mphoko and G40 are the ones behind the poisoning of the late Mahofa and Mnangagwa. Listen to the audio below:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" data-width="550">
VP Mnangagwa Byo ally, Charumbira,threatens Heroes Acre violence at Mahofa burial if VP Mphoko officiates <a href="https://twitter.com/TichRay?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TichRay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ProfJNMoyo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ProfJNMoyo</a> @MarioWuragu <a href="https://t.co/aiIeEEhxdH">pic.twitter.com/aiIeEEhxdH</a>
— mawarire jealousy (@mawarirej) <a href="https://twitter.com/mawarirej/status/898936225398235136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>

Listen: Mnangagwa ally threatens violence at Heroes Acre if Mphoko officiates Mahofa's burial

Shuvai Mahofa, the former Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs has been declared a National Heroine and will be buried at the National Heroes Acre.
Mahofa died on the 14th of August after complaining of failing to breathe properly. She was 76. Mahofa was a member of Zanu-PF’s politburo and served as the senator for Gutu.

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