The Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) is mourning the death of Retired Colonel Patron Khutshwekaya Ndlovu, a prominent former Zimbabwe People's Revolutionary Army (Zipra) liberation war cadre.
Ndlovu, widely known by his Chimurenga name, Dalasi Ndlela, passed away on May 1, 2026, at United Bulawayo Hospitals at the age of 75.
In a statement released on May 5, ZNA commander Lieutenant General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi confirmed that Ndlovu joined the liberation struggle in 1976.
Born in Tsholotsho District in 1951, he attended Mzilikazi Secondary School before crossing into Zambia via Botswana to undergo military training at Nampundwe, New Camp, and Mwembeshi.
His military education was extensive, including advanced training at Mugagau in Tanzania under the Zimbabwe People’s Army (ZIPA) and specialized weapons training in the Soviet Union.
Upon returning to Zambia in 1977, he was deployed to the Zambezi escarpment, where he operated in strategic zones including Kariba, Chirundu, and Kanyemba.
Following a funeral parade at Imbizo Barracks yesterday, Ndlovu is scheduled to be buried on May 7.
Despite his high-ranking military background, his hero status remained unconfirmed by the government as of yesterday morning.
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He is now expected to be laid to rest at Lady Stanley Cemetery in Bulawayo.
Lady Stanley has historically served as a final resting place for many high-ranking Zipra and Zapu cadres who either refuse burial at the National Heroes Acre in Harare or are not granted the status by the Zanu PF government.
If buried there, Ndlovu will join esteemed colleagues such as Lookout Masuku, Thenjiwe Lesabe, and Swazini Ndlovu.
Mourners have described Ndlovu as a disciplined and committed nationalist.
Mildred Mkandla, a Zapu member who worked with him for 16 years, described him as a "seasoned and trusted administrator" who served faithfully under the late Dumiso Dabengwa.
“He was dependable and always delivered quality results,” Mkandla said, noting that he was a close family friend.
Vivian Siziba, Zapu Bulawayo secretary, added that while the government's stance was unclear, the community expects a befitting send-off at Lady Stanley.
At the time of his death, Ndlovu was a member of the Zapu national executive and a board member for Ibhetshu LikaZulu. He is survived by his wife and children.
