Online Reporter
PRESIDENT Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa has expressed deep sorrow following the tragic road accident that claimed the lives of three Highlanders Football Club executive members, describing the loss as a national tragedy and directing that they be accorded State-assisted funerals.
In a statement released by Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr Martin Rushwaya, President Mnangagwa mourned the passing of Highlanders chairman Colonel (Retired) Kenneth Mhlophe, vice chairman Mr Sifiso Siziba and treasurer Mr Nkani Khoza.
The President said he had learnt of the tragic accident with a heavy heart, describing the three executives as distinguished leaders who dedicated their lives to the growth of football in Zimbabwe.
“It is with a heavy heart and profound sorrow that I learned of the tragic road accident that claimed the lives of three distinguished Executive Members of Highlanders Football Club, Colonel (Retd) Kenneth Mhlophe, the Chairman, Mr Sifiso Siziba, the Vice Chairman, and Mr Nkani Khoza, the Treasurer,” reads the statement.
President Mnangagwa said Highlanders Football Club is more than just a football team, but an institution that symbolises Zimbabwe’s heritage, unity and national pride.
“These departed sons of the soil dedicated their lives to the development of football in Zimbabwe, serving Bosso and the nation with dedication, humility, and love for the game. To lose three custodians of such a revered national institution in one tragic moment is a loss, not only to Highlanders, but to the entire nation.”
The President extended his deepest condolences to the Highlanders Football Club family, the bereaved families, friends and the wider football fraternity during this difficult period.
He also announced that Government has directed that the three departed executives be accorded State-assisted funerals.
“On behalf of Government, ZANU PF, and the people of Zimbabwe, I extend my deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the Highlanders Football Club family, to the bereaved families, friends, and to the entire football fraternity. I have directed that the deceased be accorded State Assisted Funerals.”
President Mnangagwa prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved families and for the departed souls to rest in eternal peace.
> “We pray that the Almighty grants the departed souls eternal peace, and their families strength and comfort during this period of grief. May their souls Rest in Eternal Peace.”
