“National Hero of Loadshedding”: Zimbabweans React as ZESA Chairperson Sydney Gata is Declared a National Hero

Zimbabweans React as ZESA Chairperson Sydney Gata is Declared a National Hero

Zimbabweans have erupted with a wave of criticism and irony after the late former ZESA Holdings executive chairperson, Dr. Sydney Gata, was declared a national hero.

Gata passed away in Harare on Thursday following a short illness. He was 79.

Also Read: President Mnangagwa Declares ZESA Executive Chairman Sydney Gata a National Hero

Sydney Gata Burial at National Heroes Acre

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Ambassador Raphael Faranisi, confirmed the decision and announced that preparations are underway for Gata’s burial.

“Yes, Dr Gata has been declared a national hero, with some arrangements to be discussed further. As is the norm, burial arrangements will now be discussed between the Ministry of Home Affairs and the family,” Ambassador Faranisi said

Dr. Gata will be laid to rest at the National Heroes Acre on Wednesday.

Zimbabweans React

While the declaration is traditionally reserved for individuals deemed to have made outstanding contributions to the country, many Zimbabweans questioned whether Gata’s tenure at the helm of the country’s power utility merited such an honor.

Zimbabwe has for years struggled with crippling power cuts, a legacy that some critics felt overshadowed any achievements during Gata’s leadership. Netizens took to social media to express criticism, disbelief and sarcasm over the announcement.

Here are some of the reactions;

@Vongai Mhaka;

Indeed he was a Hero for loadshedding MHSRP

@Tapiwanashe Mhlanga;

Hero for keeping the nation in the dark? This irony

@Amos Murimbika;

National Hero for switching Zesa at 4am till 10pm

@Summe Kamupambe;

National Hero of Loadshedding

@Benhilda Gwacha Dube;

eeeh, Hero of keeping us in darkness indeed , of making OK Zim broke due to running the generator.

@Runyararo T Saki;