Zimpapers Logo

The Herald, November 17, 1979 

THE Lancaster House talks breakthrough was reported with jubilation by Radio Maputo, which yesterday quoted a Patriotic Front spokesman as saying: “We have achieved what we wanted.” 

In the broadcast, monitored in Johannesburg, the spokesman said the PF would now be a legal force within Zimbabwe Rhodesia. “They will come to Salisbury as a force that represents the people of Zimbabwe…,” he said. 

The talks breakthrough brought hopes of an independent Zimbabwe, ruled by the Patriotic Front.  

Radio Mozambique commented that the breakthrough did not come from the goodwill of the British Government. “It was snatched from them by the perseverance of the Patriotic Front and international pressure.” 

LESSONS FOR TODAY 

 The agreement on an interim Government was widely welcomed by the people and the international community as one of the most brilliant diplomatic achievements of the post-war era. 

 As expected, following elections in February 1980, Zanu (PF) emerged victorious but the first Government can best be described as a power-sharing one considering that members from PF-ZAPU and the Rhodesia Front were in the Government. 

  Working together as a unified force, appreciating each other’s efforts and being cognisant of constant changes, will take Zimbabwe very far. Everyone has something to contribute towards the development of this great nation. This is why President Mnangagwa always says, “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo. Brick upon brick; stone upon stone.”