She served with conviction and courage” — Mnangagwa mourns Linda Masarira

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has described the death of opposition leader Linda Tsungirirai Masarira as “a great loss to her family, to the women of Zimbabwe, and to the nation at large”.

In a condolence message issued on Monday, 25 May 2026, the President extended “heartfelt condolences” to the Masarira family on behalf of ZANU PF, the Government, the people of Zimbabwe, and his own family.

“It is with a heavy heart that I learnt of the passing on of Ms Linda Tsungirirai Masarira, the leader of the opposition Labour, Economists and African Democrats (LEAD) Party,” President Mnangagwa said.

“May they find strength in the knowledge that their daughter, sister, mother and compatriot served her country with conviction and courage.”

The President described Masarira as “a bold and outspoken voice in Zimbabwe’s political and civic space” who consistently advocated for dialogue, constitutionalism and national unity.

“She was particularly fearless in defending the sovereignty of Zimbabwe,” the statement read.

President Mnangagwa said Masarira contributed to “progressive civic engagement” and to shaping a national narrative centred on unity, peace and development through her work in civil society, the media, and political platforms such as the Political Actors Dialogue.

“Through her work, she demonstrated that Zimbabweans of diverse political backgrounds can disagree without being enemies, and can work together for the common good,” he said.

The President said he hoped Masarira’s legacy would inspire others, “especially young women, to participate actively and responsibly in the affairs of their country”.

He added, “I pray and hope that the Masarira family finds solace and comfort in her great deeds and that the nation shares in their grief. May her soul rest in eternal peace.” *_-Pindula_*