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MDC activist, Chokuda laid to rest three years after death
Movement for Democratic Change (MDC)
October 24, 2011

Hundreds of MDC members, friends and relatives converged at Chipere Village in Gokwe for the burial of MDC activist Moses Chokuda who was murdered by Zanu PF youths in March 2009.

Chokuda was murdered by Farai Machaya, the son of Zanu PF Midlands chairperson, Jason Machaya, Abel Maphosa and brothers Edmore and Bothwell Gana. The four were sentenced to 18 years each for the murder.

Addressing the mourners, the MDC secretary-general, Hon. Tendai Biti, castigated the use of violence which he said had polarised the country leaving thousands of people injured, displaced or dead.

"We need to embrace love and be peace builders in our own nation not enemies that breathe at the neck of one another," said Hon. Biti.

"Zimbabwe is an un-free society because of merciless Zanu PF supporters who each day attack MDC members. MDC supporters are under serious attack with some being murdered, they have no freedom of expression, face arbitrary arrests, yet we are one family as Zimbabweans.

"It is a very sad moment when one is killed because of political differences in a transitional government. So where is the unity, love, healing and reconciliation that we preach each day?" he said.

Hon. Biti urged the people to remain resolute, steadfast and love one another.

Tavengwa Chokuda, Moses's father, said the murder of his son was a warning to perpetrators of violence that there are not above the law.

"The Machayas realised their mistake and we have forgiven them, we can drink together now," he said.

The burial followed the compensation by the Machaya family who paid 20 herd of cattle and US$15 000 to the Chokuda family.

Chief Njelele, who mediated between the Chokudas and the Machayas said he was afraid at first to be involved in the matter after hearing that Moses was "avenging" his death.

"I decided to act like President Jacob Zuma and be the facilitator so that the boy who has been dead for two years and nine months is buried. This worried me for a long time, but I am glad we have laid him to rest," said Chief Njelele.

Moses left behind a wife Ruramai and son who is 2 years.

The burial was attended by the MDC national deputy chairperson, Hon. Morgen Komichi, MDC Midlands North provincial leadership, chiefs, kraal heads and councillors.

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