Tinotenda Hove— President Emmerson Mnangagwa has used the seventh anniversary of Robert Mugabe’s death to celebrate the former leader’s revolutionary credentials, portraying him as a central figure in Zimbabwe’s liberation and land reform while largely steering clear of the more contentious aspects of his 37-year rule.

In a commemorative statement, Mnangagwa presented Mugabe’s political legacy in largely favourable terms, saying Zimbabweans should continue to honour the former president and preserve what he described as his contribution to the country.

Mnangagwa described Mugabe as “a revolutionary of unassailable credentials” and credited him with leading the country through the armed struggle that culminated in independence in 1980.

“A revolutionary of unassailable credentials, Cde RG Mugabe led our nation through a gruelling, protracted armed struggle against colonial rule, leading to the birth of our nation in 1980,” Mnangagwa said.

The tribute also highlighted Mugabe’s role in the controversial land reform programme, which Mnangagwa portrayed as part of the former president’s enduring contribution to Zimbabwe.

However, the glowing assessment comes despite Mugabe’s legacy remaining deeply divisive, with his long tenure marked by both significant political achievements and fierce criticism over governance, human rights, economic decline and the suppression of political opposition.

Mugabe died in Singapore in September 2019, nearly two years after he was forced out of office during Operation Restore Legacy. The military-backed intervention brought an abrupt end to his presidency after growing tensions within Zanu PF and accusations that individuals around him were undermining the country.

Mnangagwa’s latest tribute therefore places renewed emphasis on the liberation credentials of a former ruler whose legacy remains contested, raising questions over how much of Zimbabwe’s complicated political history is being remembered — and how much is being conveniently left out.