RESIDENTS in Bulawayo have described Zanu PF politburo member Tshinga Dube, who died last week, as a big brother who cared for everyone in the city across the political divide.
Dube died on October 3 at a Mater Dei hospital and has been declared a national hero.
Hundreds of residents yesterday thronged Barbourfields Stadium to pay their last respects.
Gibson Mayisa who represented Dube’s friends said the nationalist was nicknamed “Embassy” in recognition of the work he did in helping many freedom fighters during the liberation war.
“We used to call him Embassy because he would move from one embassy to another in Zambia looking for scholarships to assist some of the cadres to go and study abroad,” Mayisa said.
Family spokesperson Lizwe Maphosa described Dube as a unifier who was able to stand above politics.
“He was a role model and did not live for his positions, cared for everyone, his actions declared him a national hero,” he said.
A Highlanders Football Club board member described Dube as a football fanatic who took the game as a unifying sporting activity for families.
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“He guided us through challenging times and instilled a sense of humour. The final whistle has blown and it will continue to ring to us forever,” he said.
Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution minister Judith Ncube said the nation had lost a caring father and brother who was a responsible leader.
“It is another sad moment for the province and the country at large. We are gathered here to celebrate the life of a great man.
“He has been accorded this befitting send off because of the thunderous works he did during the war of the liberation and the determination he had in serving the government and thereafter.
“He played a pivotal role in mass mobilisation, a pillar of hope among others. Loyal and humble servant although we are mourning but we are celebrating a life well lived.”
A military parade is expected to be held today before Dube’s body is transported to Harare for burial at the National Heroes Acre tomorrow.
