Story by Peter Chivhima
CDE Pupurai Togarepi has been re-elected as the Chairperson of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Collaborators Association (ZILWACO), following unanimous support from members across all ten provinces.
The re-election came during a highly attended national congress held at the revolutionary party’s headquarters in Harare this Sunday, where provincial representatives expressed their confidence in Cde Togarepi’s leadership and commitment to the welfare of war collaborators.
“We have trust in him, which is why we have re-elected him to the post. We are confident that he will address our issues,” ZILIWACO Mashonaland East provincial chairperson, Cde Chriswell Madzonga said.
“We worked with him closely over the years and witnessed his genuine concern for our welfare. He has always made time to listen to our grievances and pushed for solutions that benefit our members. Given his track record, we are confident that under his continued leadership, all our outstanding issues will be addressed, and our voices will be heard more effectively. His re-election is a clear reflection of the trust and hope we have in him to represent our interests diligently.”
In his acceptance remarks, Cde Togarepi thanked the membership for their continued trust and pledged to continue advocating for the recognition and empowerment of liberation war collaborators.
“Let us continue to defend our Party, ZANU-PF, as we are a vital structure of this revolutionary movement. Let us remain steadfast in our support for ZANU-PF and its leadership. Our President has never forgotten us he stands with us at every turn. As ZILIWACO members, we are known for our discipline, and we must uphold that reputation. The President values our role, and his continued support is clear, something for which we must remain deeply grateful. We are on a journey, and currently, the issue of title deeds is at the forefront. Let us ensure that we are also included in this process. We have engaged the Chairperson of the Land Tenure Committee to assist us in securing our rightful place,” he said.
The re-election of Cde Togarepi is seen as a sign of stability and continuity within the association as it pushes forward its agenda to secure social and economic justice for its members, as explained by
ZILIWACO Secretary General, Cde Shine Chakanyuka.
“The elective congress gives mandate to our association. Cde Togarepi is so committed to the welfare of our members. Therefore, we deemed it fitting to re-elect him for another five-year term. War Collaborators are staunch supporters of our party, he said.
The elective congress also saw national members being elected into the national executive committee.
Cde Togarepi has led the association for the past five years and is set to continue at the helm for yet another five-year term.
