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Richard Muponde , Plumtree Correspondent
FORMER Zanu-PF Bulilima West legislator and Plumtree prominent businessman, Cde Lungisani Nleya, has died.

Cde Nleya, a war veteran and retired Zimbabwe National army major who was popularly known as Cde Ndazi Ndazi, died at the Roman Catholic church-run Mater Dei Hospital in Bulawayo on Wednesday morning, where he had been admitted for two days after a short illness.

Zanu-PF national spokesperson and Bulilima-Mangwe Senator, Cde Simon Khaya Moyo, said he was in deep shock after learning of the death of a dedicated party cadre and war veteran.

“I have learnt with deep shock and dismay over the passing of Cde Ndazi Ndazi. I was aware of his admission to hospital and thought he was on the mend. It’s a great loss not only to Bulilima-Mangwe but Matabeleland South province and the country as a whole,” said Cde Khaya- Moyo.

“He was really an asset to the country, a war veteran who distinguished himself as a courageous and disciplined cadre committed to free his country. He was attested into the army where he served and reached the level of Major. He will be really missed and we grieve together with his wife and children. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

Plumtree Combined Residents and Development Association (Pcrada) chairperson, Mr Richard Khumalo, said Cde Nleya’s death was a great loss to residents of the border town where he operated a number of businesses.

“That’s a great loss to us as a community since he was one of the business people who was creating employment for our youth. We hope he will rest in peace,” said Mr Khumalo.

Funeral arrangements were still to be announced as the family was said to be in Bulawayo.

Cde Nleya was the Zanu-PF legislator for Bulilima West in the last Parliament until he was defeated by Cde Dingumuzi Phuthi in the party’s primary elections.

Cde Phuthi went on to win the seat in the July harmonised elections.

— @richardmuponde