MIDWEEK REPORTER
MASVINGO-National Progressive Democrats (NPD) Interim President Togara Fambi has opened up about his arrest, detention, and the overwhelming support that carried him through one of the darkest moments of his life.
Addressing the nation, Fambi began with humility and gratitude,
“We wish to express our profound gratitude for the overwhelming love and solidarity shown during a period of great trial.”
He then painted a chilling picture of life behind bars, describing conditions that stripped detainees of dignity and comfort.
“The experience of detention is one of utter finality, the heavy clank of massive locks sealing thick doors sends a deep, unnerving acknowledgment of doom through every nerve.
“Inside, the air is foreign and foul, the stench of unwashed blankets reminiscent of Gwanda Urban’s most neglected corners, compounded by the accumulation of human waste in a chamber whose sanitation system had ceased functioning five months prior, to estimate the time of day, one must measure the intervals at which officers conduct headcounts, signalling the shift change between guard details.”
Despite the suffocating environment, Fambi found light in the unity of his party and supporters.
“Yet, while darkness reigned both inside and out for many, for me there was the National Progressive Democrats (NPD), a river of love and kindness flowing like the Jordan. The Progressive Democrats have proven themselves truly progressive in nature, leaders, not followers.”
He highlighted how the NPD stepped in where the system failed, ensuring he and others survived the harsh conditions.
“Throughout my detention, I lacked nothing. The regime’s practice of arbitrarily arresting those who oppose its politics of destruction is matched only by its failure to feed those it detains.
“The NPD was the first to arrive at the Police Charge Office, delivering food supplies. As supplies continued to come, I was able to share with fellow prisoners who had no one to provide for them.
“The NPD cared not only for me but, unknowingly, for many others. May you be highly favoured by the Almighty.”
Uncertainty loomed when legal assistance was questioned, and Fambi recalled his cautious response,
“When police officers asked, ‘Do you have a lawyer?’ honestly, I did not know what would happen. I replied only, ‘We will cross the river when we get to the bridge.’
“That was not a sign of doubt in the NPD, I knew our financial standing all too well, and my concern was for you rather than for myself.”
Relief and hope arrived dramatically when legal representation finally came, “But when the moment arrived, a very tall, smartly dressed gentleman stormed the CID Law and Order Office, where I had been confined like a convicted murderer and declared with confidence, ‘I am looking for the person who is being most severely mistreated in Zimbabwe, named Togara Fambi.’
“My heart leaped with joy. I congratulated the NPD. You made it possible, my fellow countrymen and women. History has been recorded in the pages of our entry into the politics of today.
“Words fail to express our thanks. All I can say is, may the God of heaven and the ancestors of this land help us to liberate Zimbabwe from the yoke of slavery, so that we may enjoy the fruits of the resources you have sacrificed,” he said.
With conviction, he turned to the broader struggle facing the nation, “I pray that we be strengthened to fight the entrenchment of black minority rule, so that at the dawn of a New Zimbabwe, all these sacrifices will not be in vain.”
He also acknowledged the spiritual support that sustained him throughout, “While some fought the physical battle, prophets, bishops, and pastors fought on the spiritual front. We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities in high places.
“They made fervent prayers for me in the police cells and fasted from the day of my arrest until my release.
“On the final day, they lined up at Masvingo Magistrate Court to ensure I was covered by the blood of Jesus.”
In closing, Fambi celebrated the resilience and unity of Zimbabweans and his party, “Zimbabwe, you are truly great, and the love shown has been more than amazing.
“The NPD has proven to be more than a political party, it is a social hub. Come to the NPD, all you who are weary, and you will find rest.
“My family salutes you for standing with us during this very difficult time. Without you, we would not be here. You made it all possible.
“Please accept our deepest appreciation. Find a special place in your hearts to receive our gratitude.”
Through his own words, Togara Fambi transforms a painful experience into a story of resilience, solidarity, and an unshaken belief in a better Zimbabwe.
