What they said about John Makumbe

HARARE – Prominent political analyst Professor John Makumbe, an albino who also campaigned against prejudice toward the skin pigmentation condition, died Sunday morning after a heart attack. Below is the reaction to his death.

“The Embassy of the United States of America expresses its condolences to the family and the people of Zimbabwe on the death of Professor John Makumbe, a prominent political analyst and academic who consistently provided thoughtful and balanced insights.

“He was respected as one who challenged his own assumptions, welcomed opposing perspectives, and appreciated the value and power of nuance. He influenced a generation of Zimbabwean students of political science and helped to shape and inform public discourse.

“In addition, he was a compassionate advocate for the rights of the disabled, in particular the albino community. The loss of his contributions to these fields will leave a notable void. May he rest in peace…” U.S. Embassy Harare, Public Affairs Section.

“We have lost an indefatigable fighter for human rights, a brilliant academic and a decent human being,” Wilf Mbanga, the publisher and editor of The Zimbabwean newspaper.

“The white man from Buhera has gone too soon. He was one of the few outspoken voices of conscience remaining in the academic community and a much loved member of the civil society. His wit, intellect and humour ensured that he and those around him were able to survive troubled times and remain resolute to the struggle for a better Zimbabwe.” Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights director Irene Petras.

“Makumbe was a rare act – a walking talking thinking advert against prejudice and tyranny. He had a forensic analytical mind that came with charm and a disarming sense of humour, which made the task of interviewing him never boring. A big loss.” Journalist Farai Sevenzo.

“Professor of professors, one in whose hands most UZ students passed through especially political activists, the one who who taught many of us to stand for the truth and to fight against evil with civility, the one who provided intellectual leadership in academic, political and civil societies, the one who contributed and shaped Zimbabwe’s public administration systems. How will we deal with this Crisis of Command that is upon us? Rest In Peace Professor John Makumbe. You remain a monumental academic and political GLADIATOR!” Pedzisai Ruhanya, Director, Zimbabwe Democracy Institute.

“Sad Sunday morning, Zimbabwe and the MDC-T family have lost, a man of principle, a fighter, a friend, Prof John Makumbe. May the Holy Spirit comfort his family, my thoughts are also with Morgan Tsvangirai at this time, may the Lord give him strength to persevere, courage to lead Zimbabwe to the Promised Land. John is in the safer hands of the Lord, he will smile with angels at the defeat of the forces of darkness!!! MHSRIP!!” Grace Kwinjeh, MDC-T official.

“A sad day indeed!! He will be missed so much. What a loss for Zimbabwe! Big loss! There goes our legend, our hero! The voice of the voiceless! Prof Makumbe will go on and on in our memories. My deepest condolences to his family. may the Holy Spirit comfort them. May his soul rest in peace.” Lynn Mhlanga

“This is very sad news. John Makumbe was a great thinker and a fighter for truth and sanity. I am privileged to have been able to meet him and hear him speak. He will be much missed.” Mike Bennett