PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday described the late music superstar Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi as a world-acclaimed musician who, however, remained patriotic to his country up to the time of his death last week.
In a speech read on his behalf by Defence minister Oppah Muchinguri, Mnangagwa told thousands of mourners at Tuku’s burial in rural Madziwa, in Mashonaland Central province, that the late music icon was a patriot par excellence and down to earth artiste, hence government’s decision to declare him a national hero.
“As we mourn his [Tuku] passing on, we should, at the same time celebrate the incomparable inheritance he left our nation by which he shall be remembered across generations and the world over,” he said.
“His classy and timeless music, comprising 66 albums which epitomised our identity, culture and values of hunhu/ubuntu, shall remain a shining beacon forever to both present and future generations.”
Mnangagwa said through his music, in pre-independence Rhodesia, Tuku criticised white minority oppression, continuing with his socio-musical commentary thread even after independence.
“Through song, Tuku had the boldness to question, ‘What is a hero?’ The nation and the world today answers his question. We loudly say Dr Oliver Mtukudzi is a hero. That is a hero. The late Dr Mtukudzi was an ambassador par excellence of Zimbabwe and, indeed, the Africa continent,” he said.
“He [Tuku] was one of the most recognised voices to emerge from Zimbabwe onto the international scene and earned a devoted following across Africa and beyond.”
Mnangagwa said although Tuku did not shy away from political commentary, he, however, managed to maintain his patriotism and love for his country.
immense success, Tuku managed to maintain an unassuming and humble, witty, often humorous personality, which was both sobering and inspiring,” he said
“He was hardworking, resilient and exhibited qualities beyond those of an artiste and musician. He entertained and united millions of people as well as branding and marketing our country as a safe and friendly destination of choice.”
