Tinotenda Hove – Controversial former MP and ZANU-PF politician Killer Zivhu has ignited debate after describing President Emmerson Mnangagwa as the “Father of the Nation,” a title historically associated with the late nationalist and liberation hero Dr. Joshua Nkomo.

In a statement posted on social media platform X over the weekend, Zivhu wrote:
“Ndivo baba avo veNyika, vose vana Chamisa, Mutsvangwa, Tshabangu newe wacho muri vana vavo. Nhasi monamatirira baba, ndatenda.”

Loosely translated, the message suggests that all political players, including opposition leader Nelson Chamisa, Presidential Advisor Christopher Mutsvangwa, Sengezo Tshabangu, and others, are metaphorical children of Mnangagwa — whom Zivhu refers to as the father figure of Zimbabwe.

His remarks have triggered criticism from citizens and political observers, many of whom view the statement as an attempt to rewrite history and overshadow the legacy of Dr. Joshua Nkomo, affectionately remembered as “Father Zimbabwe” for his pivotal role in the liberation struggle and post-independence reconciliation efforts.

Political analyst Lifa Dube questioned Zivhu’s motives. “It is political bootlicking of the highest order. You can’t erase the historical role played by Joshua Nkomo and simply transfer that symbolic status to Mnangagwa because of current political convenience,” he said.

Others pointed out that Zivhu’s comments appear to serve partisan interests, especially as the ruling ZANU-PF seeks to consolidate its image ahead of future elections.

“Zivhu’s statement is an insult to history and to the families of liberation heroes. Titles like ‘Father of the Nation’ are not declared on social media; they are earned through sacrifice and national consensus,” said one critic on X.

Zivhu, however, remained unapologetic. Responding to the backlash, he insisted that Mnangagwa deserves respect and loyalty as the sitting Head of State. “Whether you like it or not, he is the leader. Vana vanomira baba, saka chokwadi ndakati Baba venyika,” he posted.

The controversy comes at a time when tensions remain high across Zimbabwe’s political divide, with accusations of authoritarianism, corruption, and economic mismanagement levelled against the Mnangagwa administration.

Meanwhile, the legacy of Joshua Nkomo — a founding father of modern Zimbabwe and a symbol of unity — remains deeply cherished, especially in Matabeleland and among citizens who lived through the difficult years of the liberation and the post-independence Gukurahundi period.

As debate continues, one thing is clear: national titles carry heavy historical weight, and any attempt to reassign them is bound to provoke strong reactions.