The dream of reason produces monsters. Imagination deserted by reason creates impossible, useless thoughts. United with reason, imagination is the mother of all
I am saddened to hear of the passing of Zimbabwean political activist Linda Masarira.
Linda and I held different views on Zimbabwean politics. We disagreed on how the struggle should be approached and on how politics in Zimbabwe should be conducted. At one point, we even had a public fallout. But later, by coincidence, I met her at a SAPES dialogue, and we ended up talking and laughing about the fallout we had had on social media.
Although we did not agree politically, we remained cordial. Whenever we bumped into each other, we would chat and laugh about many things, including how she was perceived in Zimbabwe and the way she approached her politics.
Her passing at such a young age is deeply sad.
I am also posting this message for those who look up to us in politics and public life to understand that there are moments when we disagree and fight fiercely over politics, but there are also moments when we must put politics aside and allow humanity to take centre stage in our lives.
Her passing is also a painful reminder of the state of healthcare in Zimbabwe and how even people deeply involved in politics can still find themselves failed by the very system they believed in and defended.
Beyond political differences, no Zimbabwean should struggle to access proper medical care in their moment of greatest need.
My heartfelt condolences to her children, family, friends, and all those who loved her.
May her soul rest in peace.