Story by Vivian bangamu
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa on Wednesday paid glowing tribute to two national heroes, the late Director of the Central Intelligence Organisation, Cde Walter Basopo, and Brigadier General (Retired) Victor Rungani, during their joint burial ceremony at the National Heroes Acre in Harare.
Addressing mourners at the revered national shrine, the President hailed Cde Basopo’s 45 years of distinguished service within the President’s Department, describing him as a “soft-spoken and unassuming patriot” who rose through the ranks from a Trainee Intelligence Officer in 1980 to become Director of Counter Intelligence in 2022.
“Cde Basopo served at a time of heightened threats against Zimbabwe, especially following our Land Reform Programme. His leadership was instrumental in safeguarding our sovereignty,” said the President.
Equally, the President commended Brigadier General (Rtd) Rungani, who joined the Zimbabwe National Army as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1980.
He served in various critical positions, including Commanding Officer of the Mechanised Regiment and Director of Electrical Mechanical Engineering.
“His innovativeness and ingenuity in the automobile sector played a key role in guaranteeing force mobility during operations in Mozambique, Somalia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo,” President Mnangagwa said.
The President called on young Zimbabweans to emulate the two heroes’ patriotism and dedication, urging them to take the baton in shaping the country’s development.
“Young people from all over our country, the ball is now in your court. You all have a duty to realise development that uplift our communities,” he said.
President Mnangagwa also emphasised the need for unity and vigilance in defending Zimbabwe’s sovereignty and progress.
