By Fungai Kwaramba
HARARE – Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai has received another honorary doctorate degree from the Sun Moon University in South Korea, in recognition of his efforts towards attaining peace and democracy in Zimbabwe.
Sun Moon University granted Tsvangirai an honorary doctorate in Public Administration and commended the former trade unionist for pursuing a peaceful and non-violent campaign for democratisation.
In his acceptance speech at the occasion of the award of his honorary doctorate degree, Tsvangirai said he was deeply humbled to be a recipient of the prestigious recognition and dedicated it to the people of Zimbabwe.
“I accept this honorary degree as a great honour, not only for myself, but for the entirety of the people of Zimbabwe as well,” the MDC leader said. “To be the person that I am today is not simply down to luck or individual effort but it is because of the people around me.
“Without the work and efforts of the people of Zimbabwe, I would not be standing here, awaiting receipt of this prestigious honour. This recognition is therefore their award – indeed, our award, and I am a mere agent receiving it on their behalf,” said Tsvangirai, praising the people of Zimbabwe for their resilience, persistence and strength of character.
Making reference to the peaceful and non-violent means as essential to sustainable change, Tsvangirai added, “We have stood steadfast by our principle to pursue our cause of democratic reform through peaceful and non-violent means. Where others in similar circumstances might have been forced to use forceful means and violence, we have remained true to our word, believing that peaceful means are the ultimate agents of sustainable transformation.”
Tsvangirai has another honorary degree in Law from Pai Chai University, which is also in South Korea. In August last year the French government awarded Tsvangirai the French Legion of Honour in recognition for his fight for democracy. Daily News
