The prominent elderly couple from Emzaza village in
Empandeni who were gruesomely murdered last week was laid to rest this Monday
at KoWami cemetery with villagers, friends, church and family members
describing them as community heroes.
Nicholas Nleya (83) and Margaret Nleya (78) were killed by
suspected robbers who invaded their homestead on Tuesday evening and set them
alight before fleeing with an undisclosed amount of cash.
Mourners, who included MDC-T leader Dr Thokozani Khupe
flocked to the Nleya homestead to pay their last respect to the couple who were
known for their generosity in their community and passion for community
development.
The couple, both former teachers left behind 10 children,
20 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Speaking on behalf of the Nleya family, during the burial
service, Patrick Nyathi said the huge turnout was a testimony of the good works
done by the couple.
“Let us not forget the good works done by the deceased to
the community,” said Nyathi.
Eddie Nleya, one of the children said their parent’s tragic
death has brought pain to the whole family.
One of the grandchildren, who was identified as Tumo,
called for justice saying they have been robbed of loving grandparents.
Meanwhile, ward 13 councillor, Moses Moyo said he lost a
great adviser in the late Nicholas Nleya.
“I used to tell Nicholas that we see development through
him, I then selected him to be my adviser in community meetings I used to have
and even as budget consultation meetings are approaching, I was still looking
forward to his input,” said Cllr Moyo.
Headman Zibuyeni Ncube said the community was now living in
fear as the assailants were yet to be arrested.
“We hope that the police will continue with their
investigations as villagers now live in fear. There are so many theories that
we have heard as the community but we leave all that for the law to take its
course because many families here depended on that family now things will never
be the same especially at a time when we are facing a drought,” said Headman
Ncube.
MDC-T leader Dr Thokozani Khupe said she has lost an uncle
who was developmentally oriented.
“Soon after the elections he called me to come down here to
talk about development, I told him if he had voted for me for president, things
could have changed in Zimbabwe,” said Dr Khupe.
“We are deeply saddened by this incident,” she added. cite.org.zw
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