Details On VP Mphoko’s Death – Eduzim News

By Political Reporter-The death of former Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko in India has reignited debate over Zimbabwe’s deteriorating healthcare system and the hypocrisy of its political elite.

Mphoko passed away on Friday from an undisclosed illness, joining a growing list of Zimbabwean leaders who have sought medical treatment abroad due to the state’s neglected health infrastructure.

This trend is not new. Mphoko’s former boss, President Robert Mugabe, died in 2019 in a Singapore hospital.

Current Vice President Constantino Chiwenga frequently travels to China for medical care, while President Emmerson Mnangagwa was rushed to South Africa in 2017 after allegedly being poisoned at a Zanu PF rally.

Former Vice President Kembo Mohadi also sought treatment in South Africa after surviving a bombing at Bulawayo’s White City Stadium in 2018.

Critics argue that these high-profile cases highlight the government’s failure to prioritize public healthcare.

Farai Maguwu, Director of the Centre for Natural Resource Governance, expressed his frustrations on X (formerly Twitter), pointing out the stark contrast between Zimbabwe’s dilapidated health sector and the lavish lifestyles of its ruling class. He noted:
“The death of Mphoko in India reminds us of the monumental leadership failure in Zimbabwe. Instead of investing in our health sector, they rob the country and spend public resources on power retention schemes, repression, and personal luxuries.”
Maguwu condemned the ruling elite’s preference for foreign medical care, which he described as a tacit admission of their disregard for the citizens they govern. He also highlighted the stark irony: while Zimbabwean leaders rely on healthcare systems abroad, no leaders from these countries seek treatment in Zimbabwe.
This neglect has left Zimbabwe’s hospitals struggling with inadequate supplies, demoralized staff, and deteriorating infrastructure. Meanwhile, figures like controversial businessman Wicknell Chivhayo flaunt their wealth, fueling public outrage over the mismanagement of state resources.
Maguwu further contrasted Zimbabwe with nations like the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, where substantial investments in healthcare have positioned them as global leaders.
“Nations rise or fall on leadership,” Maguwu wrote. “When our leaders fall ill, they charter private jets to foreign hospitals. When will they realize their decisions determine the life and death of 16 million people?”

The death of Mphoko has reignited calls for accountability and meaningful reform. As the nation mourns another leader lost abroad, the question remains: will Zimbabwe’s rulers finally address the systemic failures of its healthcare system, or will the cycle of neglect continue?

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